Hard hats, hot coffee, and a room full of industry voices came together at Gower College Swansea’s Sketty Hall Business School for an event focused on shaping the future of the built environment.
The College welcomed employers from the region including Morganstone, Andrew Scott, Cyfle, CP Engineering, James Brothers Co, and Swansea Council, alongside sector specialists, to connect, share insights, and influence the direction of construction and the built environment training across Wales.
Hannah Pearce, Gower College Swansea’s Learning Area Manager for the Built Environment, presented the latest training opportunities for businesses. Employers also received updates on current funding options and upcoming qualification changes.
The event provided a valuable platform for the sector to raise its voice on key issues, including the qualifications available and the potential reintroduction of the Level 2 provision, as recently discussed in the Senedd.
Guest speakers included Wyn Prichard, specialist consultant, industry Champion and former Wales Director of CITB, who delivered a thought-provoking talk, Evolution Not Revolution and Mark Whitby from CITB, also shared the latest developments and CITB’s Employer Network.
Paul Kift, Interim Principal of Gower College Swansea, was delighted to welcome such key employers to the event, and highlighted the crucial role of industry partnerships:
"Our priority is to work hand-in-hand with employers to ensure our curriculum is aligned with future workforce needs. By addressing current and emerging skills gaps, we can equip learners with the expertise that businesses require to grow and thrive. Collaboration is essential, particularly within the built environment sector if we are to build a sustainable pipeline of talent and support the long-term success of the industry."
Wyn Pritchard agreed and added:
‘’As someone who has been involved in skills and training for over 30 years, I was honoured to be part of this excellent and timely event.
Construction is evolving, and a new built environment sector is emerging, one that requires fresh engagement, deeper understanding, and stronger partnerships. Gower College Swansea is clearly ready to rise to that challenge.
Now more than ever, we must equip individuals and businesses with the business skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world, embrace AI, new technologies, and sustainability.
Investing in people is vital, but without strong and resilient companies in our region, that talent cannot reach its full potential. By growing both together, we can unlock innovation, opportunity, and create a lasting impact.’’
Find out how Gower College Swansea can help train your workforce please contact 01792 284400 or training@gcs.ac.uk for a further discussion.