Manchester Inspire Summit

Schools and colleges across Greater Manchester are encouraged to inspire their students and apprentices to consider a career in construction, engineering and housing at the Inspire Summit, which will be held at the Bridgewater Hall on the 25th September 2018.

Taking place during Manchester Construction Careers Week, an initiative from the Built Environment Skills in Schools (BESS), the conference and exhibition will focus specifically on how to attract and retain women in the construction and related industries.

The skills shortage in the construction industry is a major issue, with the Chartered Institute of Building reporting the industry needs 157,000 new recruits by 2021 to keep up with demand[1]. By bringing together some of the leading construction businesses, inspiring speakers and hands on activities, the organisers of the Inspire Summit are hoping to show students in Greater Manchester how exciting, varied and fulfilling a career in construction can be.

Students will hear about the importance of the built environment on modern society, different career paths, as well as experience tech used in the sector such as virtual reality and tech.

Supported by businesses such as Wates, Galliford Try Partnerships and Redrow, the Inspire Summit is a key date for schools and colleges looking to help educate their students about the great opportunities available to them.

Kathryn Lennon-Johnson, founder BESS, said
“We need to change the way we think and speak about buildings and our towns and cities. By explaining to students how what we design and build can impact us – from our health and wellbeing to the economy and society as a whole – we encourage them to think about how they can get involved and make a difference to the world around them. The Inspire Summit will be a great opportunity to start having these conversations and encourage the next generation to consider a career in construction.”

Joe Broun, event director and founder of Inspire Summit, said
“The skills shortage in the industry has been widely reported for years now. Not only do we want to attract more people into the industry, but we want to see it become more diverse and inclusive. We want girls and young women to see that a career in construction isn’t ‘just for boys’ – it’s an accessible and exciting career path for everyone.”

Students of all ages and their teachers can attend the event free of charge by registering via the website
inspiresummit.co.uk

Schools and colleges can take part in a whole range of activities during Manchester Construction Careers Week (week commencing 24 September), including site visits, built environment tours, classroom presentations and digital broadcasts. For more information, visit the BESS website.