Marvin OnumonuVistry Group has launched a Timber Frame Installer Programme to tackle the construction skills gap.
The initiative was set up by Vistry Works, alongside Future Talent and T3 Training & Development, and launched at an open evening at Vistry Works East Midlands.
15 trainees and their guests attended an introduction evening, which included a tour of the facility, a look at the new second shift, a visit to the Vistry innovation centre, and an overview of the future works technical innovation project.
A key part of the event was when Ben Forster, a site manager at Vistry, shared his experience of starting as an apprentice joiner and moving up to construction manager, showing the opportunities available in the sector.
The training will be delivered at a dedicated site in Barnsley.
Trainees will get practical experience and work towards a nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification through Barnsley College.
They will be based at Vistry sites in Yorkshire, Cheshire and Leicestershire, working with Vistry’s own erectors and subcontractors.
The programme is structured to support career development and build in-house expertise, at a time when construction output has seen a downward trend.
Danica McLean, group people director at Vistry Group, said: “At Vistry, we know that meeting the UK’s housing targets requires not only innovation in construction, but also investment in people.
“Our new Timber Frame programme will equip colleagues with the skills and confidence to deliver modern, sustainable homes at pace, whilst creating rewarding career pathways across the business.”
