Young people recently had the opportunity to explore career options in the construction industry thanks to a special programme.

The William Hare Group opened its Risca site to students as part of Build UK’s Open Doors campaign.

The initiative aims to introduce young people to the various professional opportunities available in the industry, giving them direct experience of potential career routes.

Ema Marinho, early careers lead at William Hare Group, explained that the response to Open Doors this year was impressive. She said the company was delighted to welcome students to their facilities, show them around, and highlight the wide range of roles and opportunities available across construction and engineering. Their apprenticeship and graduate programmes provide practical experience, nationally recognised qualifications, and clear pathways for developing skills and building rewarding careers. With the industry facing a skills shortage and an ageing workforce, inspiring young people and helping them see the appealing prospects a construction career offers has become increasingly important.

The company invited pupils from Islwyn High to tour its manufacturing plant.

During their visit, the students met staff members and apprentices and learned how to start a career in the sector.

They also received detailed information about the various job roles available in construction and engineering.

Suzannah Nichol OBE from Build UK said sincere thanks went to William Hare, one of the UK’s leading steelwork fabricators and contractors, for once again supporting the Open Doors initiative and giving young people and those considering construction careers an insider’s view of the roles available in the sector and local area. Visitors heard from apprentices and managers about their experiences of entering the industry and progressing into leadership positions.

The company is currently seeking applications for its 2026 early careers programme.