Global leader in engineered steel solutions, William Hare is encouraging more young people to consider a career in construction after welcoming around more than 100 young people to see behind the scenes of its sites in Risca, Bury and Scarborough.

The open-day style tours were organised as part of an industry wide initiative run by Build UK known as Open Doors, with the aim of educating young people on the varied career paths available in the construction industry.

As well as touring the facilities, the students also got the chance to meet current employees and apprentices to find out more about entry routes into the industry and hear firsthand experiences across a range of roles in construction and engineering.

Matthew Nesbit, Director at William Hare Group said: “As a business, we have always been dedicated to fostering early career growth and take pride in offering award-winning apprenticeship and graduate programs, all with the goal of providing employment to local young people and future-proofing the industry.

“At present, the construction sector faces an on-going skills shortage and with an aging workforce, we believe it is our duty to invest in young people and provide them with accessible entry routes, clear career path and exciting futures in the industry.”

Suzannah Nichol OBE, Chief Executive of Build UK added: “We’re thrilled that William Hare has supported the Open Doors programme and shown young people a behind the scenes look at the range of roles available in the construction industry.

“By inviting its current apprentices and business leaders to share their experiences including their roles and routes into the industry, Hare is providing a valuable insight into the rewarding careers available to the next generation of talent.”

William Hare boasts an award-winning apprenticeship programme and by the end of 2024, over 15% of its workforce comprised of apprentices. The business is also recognised as one of the UK's Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers and is the only structural steelwork company to hold Platinum membership of The 5% Club, a network of over 1,000 organisations which aims to have 5% of their workforce in earn and learn positions within five years.

William Hare apprentices are given the opportunity to secure nationally recognised qualifications, whilst working on major projects such as Hinkley Power Station and also earn a competitive salary.