Fresh analysis from CITB warns that Scotland must ramp up construction skills to realise a potential pipeline exceeding £100bn in energy and infrastructure projects across the Highlands and Islands, as the nation pursues its net zero goals.

The Local Skills Scotland 2026 report indicates that overall construction capacity between 2026 and 2030 should be sufficient in aggregate, but workers and skills are unevenly spread. Some regions face acute hiring pressures, and forthcoming investment could drive demand to unprecedented levels.

Proposed projects in the Highlands and Islands—including offshore wind, transmission upgrades, pumped storage hydro and green hydrogen—could, if delivered as planned, more than double local demand for construction workers. That would push overall construction workforce demand across Scotland up by around 12%.

The findings highlight the importance of Workforce North, a collaborative programme designed to ensure the region has the people and capabilities needed to underpin Scotland's energy transition and economic growth.

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The report also cautions against relying on labour from elsewhere: 99% of construction workers employed in Scotland both live and work there, and typically travel shorter distances than counterparts in other parts of the UK.

As a result, future needs are likely to be met mainly by growing local talent through training and apprenticeships rather than attracting workers from other UK regions.

CITB argues for early workforce planning and closer alignment between investment pipelines, training provision and projected labour demand. It calls for stronger collaboration among industry, government, training providers and stakeholders to understand upcoming requirements and ensure training matches employer needs.

The report concludes that sustained investment in workforce development, training capacity and appealing career pathways will be essential to equip the next generation to deliver Scotland's ambitions.

Ian Hughes, CITB Engagement Director Scotland, said: "There is a significant opportunity for the construction industry in Scotland. However, projects do not build themselves. Behind every wind farm, energy network, road, school or housing development is a skilled construction workforce.

"Scotland needs to plan ahead if it is to meet the upcoming demand. Workforce North is an important opportunity for industry, government and training providers to work together to build the skills that are needed to support future investment."

Elaine Ellis, Skills Planning Manager (Construction and Net Zero) at Skills Development Scotland, said: "The pipeline of work surrounding Infrastructure and Energy alone will bring massive opportunity both at a sector and regional level. Workforce North project recognises the importance of the regional opportunity and the importance of acting now to help secure the future workforce needed. This research by CITB helps bring clarity to the scale of the workforce and skills challenge that sits behind the pipeline potential."