WMCA and CITB partner to develop National Skills Academy for Construction

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) have agreed to develop a National Skills Academy for Construction in the West Midlands.

The organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve training and tackle a shortage of construction workers in the region.

The academy will bring employers, training providers and local decision-makers together to match skills training with workforce demand.

Tim Balcon (pictured, left), CEO at CITB, said: “Addressing the construction industry’s skills needs requires industry-wide collaboration, strong partnerships with central and local governments, and long-term commitment.

“This is the latest strategic partnership we’re establishing with mayoralties across the country, strengthening relationships between employers, training providers and local decision-makers, creating a stronger foundation for addressing emerging skills challenges at a local level.

“The Memorandum of Understanding is an important step towards establishing a National Skills Academy for Construction and ensuring the workforce is ready to meet future demand.”

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker (pictured, centre) “We’re heading into a construction boom that will power new jobs, new homes and new opportunities right across the West Midlands. 

“And this latest investment in training and apprenticeships will help make sure local people have the skills they need to land those new jobs.