Gen Zs drive growth in UK construction and trade jobs – Employment Hero

Employment Hero reported 16.8% year-on-year growth in Gen Z jobs across construction and trade services in the UK.

Gen Z employment outpaced other generations, with Gen Y up 5.5%, Gen X 6.7% and baby boomer employment rising 7.1%.

The research found overall headcount in the sector grew 9.9% in January. 

Wage growth was also strong, with an increase of 9.6% across all age groups, driven by ongoing skills shortages and an ageing workforce.

Additionally, data found 73% of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) leaders intend to use new Government schemes. 

46% of SMEs value apprenticeships and degrees equally, and 37% value the vocational route more.

Kevin Fitzgerald, UK managing director at Employment Hero, said: “Our data shows that the UK Construction & Trade sector is ready to build and nurture young talent, offering them meaningful jobs and on the job learning. 

“With Gen Z employment rising three times faster than other cohorts, it’s a clear sign that they are leading the revival of the blue-collar workforce. 

“It’s clear from recent announcements that the Government sees vocational training and apprenticeships as playing a huge role in addressing the UK’s youth unemployment challenge and our figures show that the sector is playing its role in driving towards that mission.”