CITB to host first Construction, Skills and Community Wealth Conference in Scotland

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) will be hosting its first Construction, Skills and Community Wealth Conference in Scotland this Thursday, 5 September. The one-day event in Perth will include a keynote speech from Tom Arthur, Minister for Employment and Investment, Scottish Government.

This event marks the launch of a revitalised engagement programme for employers and training providers from CITB’s Customer Engagement team.

The conference will draw on past experiences and evolve into a programme that will run cyclically throughout the year. The goal is to share information and updates, discuss challenges, and work towards narrowing the skills gap within the construction industry.

Ian Hughes, Engagement Director Scotland, CITB, said:

“Hosting the Skills, Training and Community Wealth Conference in Scotland is a fantastic opportunity for Scottish construction companies to dive headfirst into critical topics such as community benefits, social impact, and community wealth building.

“It's essential to highlight the importance of construction skills, explore alternative pathways into employment, and ensure the right training is in place to support the industry and address the skills gap.

“We’re also looking to engage more training providers in this important conversation, strengthening our network and creating a more robust future for everyone involved."

Multiple sessions at the event will take place throughout the day, including talks from Diarmaid Lawlor, Scottish Futures Trust; and workshops with Naila Wood, Head of Social Impact, Balfour Beatty; Jim Johnstone, Head of Communities & Social Impact, Morrison Construction Scotland, Michael Palethorpe, Production & Community Benefit Manager, Cruden Building, Lindsey McNaughtan, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager – Scotland, Kier and Kelly Harkness, Social Impact Manager, Robertson Construction Central West, Shauna Young, Head of Responsible Business, McLaughlin & Harvey, Janet McLean, Social Impact manager, Graham; and Laura Sutherland, Social Sustainability Manager, BAM Construction Ltd

Employment and Investment Minister Tom Arthur, said:

“To deliver high-quality jobs and sustainable business growth, we are working to ensure that more money is spent and retained in communities throughout Scotland.

“This includes development of a Community Wealth Building Bill to encourage practices such as payment of a real living wage and buying more products and services from local businesses to drive growth.”