Builders of the future enjoy site visit to new housing project

Builders of the future enjoy site visit to new housing project
Donning hard hats, high visibility vests and safety boots, bricklaying students from SERC's Newtownards Campus had the opportunity to visit a new social housing development at Faulkner Road Bangor.

To begin, the enthusiastic students were given a site induction by site engineer Martin McAllister and site foreman Benny Leitch. The students were then shown the planning office and given a tour of the site. Throughout the tour students were given the opportunity to speak to engineers working in the industry about their career path and the qualifications they needed for their particular job.  Giving the students a real insight into the industry they will one day be working in.

Jan Sloan, Development Manager at Clanmil said “These new homes mean that families from the waiting list have will be able to move into warm, energy efficient homes.  We are very grateful to the local community and to their political representatives who have supported us on this project.”

During the visit the bricklayers on site said they are willing to take on apprentices as soon as possible. Which presents good opportunities for the students.

Site engineer Martin McAllister has previously visited SERC and has given talks to students in the workshop, sharing his experience of the industry and explained the lack of skilled workers in the industry.

Simon Cummings, SERC deputy head of school for construction and engineering services said, “This was a great opportunity for the students to see first-hand how a major project is being carried out. For students to get the opportunity to ask directly about their career paths helps them to see the exciting career opportunities that are available in the construction industry. We are extremely grateful to the Geda Construction for arranging and facilitating the event.”