From Classroom to Career: Closing the skills gap with Rethinking Futures

The construction and engineering industries are evolving fast, driven by technology, sustainability, and global trends. But one big challenge remains: the skills gap. Finding skilled professionals to innovate and lead the construction and engineering industries is a growing priority. That’s where Rethinking Futures steps in — a program designed to bridge the gap between education and industry. 

By connecting students, schools, and industry leaders, Rethinking Futures gives young talent the tools they need to succeed.

Hands-On Learning for Career-Ready Skills 

Rethinking Futures goes beyond the classroom, offering students practical experiences that reflect real-world challenges. This approach helps students develop the skills employers want — like problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity — while building their own confidence. 

Lincoln UTC, a Rethinking Futures Supporter, explains: “Designing and building a machine capable of moving various products is exactly the type of challenge our students excel at—combining technical knowledge, creativity, and teamwork.”

Wright Engineering adds: “We aim to spark early interest by promoting engineering opportunities for school leavers, such as apprenticeships, while also showcasing graduate roles for those pursuing higher education.”

By aligning career pathways with students’ goals, Rethinking Futures ensures no talent is left behind. 

Bringing Careers to Life 

Many students don’t consider careers in construction or engineering simply because they don’t know what’s possible. Rethinking Futures changes this by connecting students directly with industry professionals and showcasing the opportunities these fields offer. 

Steve Mulholland, CEO of the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA): “Initiatives like Rethinking Futures ensure students gain hands-on experience and see the career opportunities our sector provides.”

The RAF agrees: “With over 60 jobs and 20+ apprenticeships available, the RAF relies on programs like Rethinking Futures to demonstrate the breadth of opportunities to students early in their education.”

By making these industries approachable and exciting, the program inspires the next generation of talent. 

Closing the Gap Through Collaboration 

Collaboration is at the core of Rethinking Futures. By bringing together schools and businesses, the program creates a direct pipeline of skilled talent ready to meet the industry’s needs. 

Murphy, a key supporter of the initiative, shares: “It’s always fantastic to meet students and discuss their career ambitions. These conversations often help students see how their strengths can translate into a career in engineering or construction.”

Wright Engineering adds: “This initiative uniquely tackles our industry's skills shortages by directly connecting students with employers through interactive engagement.”

Together, schools and industries are building a workforce that’s prepared for the future. 

Building a Sustainable Future 

Sustainability in every form is at the heart of today’s construction and engineering industries, and Rethinking Futures is helping students prepare to meet these challenges. By providing opportunities for students to consider the future of the environment, the initiative ensures the next generation is equipped to create a more sustainable world. 



The H. E. Group, which includes companies like H. E. Services and Diggerland, emphasises: “Encouraging environmentally responsible thinking is vital, and Rethinking Futures is the perfect platform to inspire the next generation and drive meaningful cultural change.”

Have you got the vision?

Our initiatives are designed to connect schools, students and employers within the construction and engineering sectors. Inspiring young minds, providing hands-on experience, and fostering valuable connections for future career success.

🏫 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀 & 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 📚
We offer schools hands-on engineering projects, career guidance, workshops, and networking to enrich curriculums with real-world industry insights. For further details on how to get involved or to register your your interest, please click here.

👷‍♂️ 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘆𝗲𝗿𝘀 & 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 🚧
We help employers engage with students, boost brand visibility, network with industry leaders, and mentor future talent in construction and engineering. For further details about sponsorship click here.

🧑‍🎓 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 📝
Students get real-world engineering experience, competitions, career exploration, and skill development workshops to help them prepare for future careers in construction and engineering.

𝗪𝗲’𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 — 𝘄𝗲’𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗶𝘁.