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Developing the next generation of construction professionals is vital to the future of the industry.
Across the sector, CIF members are investing in education, skills development and STEM outreach by supporting students, apprentices, graduates and emerging leaders. From industry placements and site visits to research partnerships, leadership programmes and award-winning inclusion initiatives, these efforts are helping to build a strong and diverse talent pipeline for the years ahead.
Highlights include:
🎓 Bennett received a Trailblazer Award at the STEM Passport for Inclusion Industry Awards, while Helena Kiernan received individual recognition. The company highlighted its support through mentoring, work placements and industry engagement to widen access to STEM opportunities.
🎓 Collen contributed to the Moongate workshop at EASA Seanchaí 2026 in Waterford, exploring storytelling through dry stone walling. The activity brought together traditional craft, collaboration and practical learning for emerging industry professionals.
🎓 Elliott Group welcomed first-year TU Dublin Construction Management students to its An Droichead Órga site. The visit introduced students to site management, coordination and the trades and teams involved in delivering a live project.
🎓 Mercury celebrated the first graduates of its Evolving Leaders Programme, a Level 9 course in leadership and high-performance teams developed with TU Dublin. Delivered through its Leadership Academy, the programme supports existing leaders in developing their skills and progressing towards senior roles.
🎓 Radley apprentice Alex Whelan qualified for the metal fabrication finals at WorldSkills Ireland 2026. The achievement followed his participation in the 2025 welding finals and highlighted apprenticeship skills and career pathways.
🎓 Ward & Burke highlighted its partnership with the University of Galway to establish the Ward & Burke Centre for Infrastructure Research & Innovation. The centre will support research into sustainable and resilient infrastructure, alongside scholarships and future engineering talent.
🎓 Wills Bros graduates and apprentices visited its Berth 52 and 53 project at Dublin Port. A presentation and guided tour provided practical insight into the planning and delivery of complex landside and marine infrastructure.