When people think of construction, they often picture a hard hat and a brick wall. While those are the literal foundations of our world, the industry is so much more than that. It is a living, breathing ecosystem of innovation, problem-solving, and specialised skill.
At Vascroft, we aren’t just building structures; we are committed to building careers. As someone who transitioned into this industry from a completely different world, Dhruti Vekaria, After Care Manager at Vascroft has seen firsthand why retaining skills and inspiring the next generation is vital for our future.
From Pharmacy to Forensics: A Different Kind of Challenge
Dhruti’s background is actually as a Pharmacist. In that world,
“Everyday is predictable. In construction there is never a day like this. Everyday is a different day, you are always learning and there is a lot of space to be innovative”.
In her role as After Care Manager,
“I’m like the forensic person in the construction industry. If and when a problem occurs in a building that we completed, it’s for me to figure out what has gone wrong.”
It requires a curious mind and a sharp eye – skills that are essential to keep the industry moving forward.
Why the Next Generation Matters
We are currently facing a pivotal moment in the industry where we must bridge the gap between experienced veterans and fresh talent. Retaining traditional construction skills is essential, but so is infusing the field with new perspectives.
Why should young people consider construction?
- The “AI-Proof” Factor: In a world where many roles are being automated, “on the tools” work is one thing AI simply cannot take over. It requires human dexterity, judgment, and craftsmanship.
- Earn While You Learn: You don’t have to wait until you have a degree to start your career. There are fantastic apprenticeship courses available.
A World of Endless Routes
Most people think of “builders,” but the variety of career paths, like in any business, is extremely varied. Dhruti notes:
“You need construction lawyers, engineers (from structural, electrical, to mechanical), building designers, joinery. The list is endless.”
A perfect example of these varied routes is Shyamal, who is pictured here at a recent careers fair. Shyamal joined us as a degree apprentice and has now been fully qualified for three years. His journey highlights how you can combine higher education with real-world experience, moving from a student to a vital, post-qualified professional within the Vascroft team.
The Vascroft Commitment
At Vascroft, we don’t just talk about the future; we invest in it. We are deeply committed to bringing young apprentices into the business, providing them with the mentorship and hands-on experience they need to thrive.
To ensure the next generation understands the wealth of opportunity available, we take an active role in the community. We often attend workshops and career expos to help tell our story, regularly engaging with students at university events and career fairs. We believe that by showing up and sharing the reality of modern construction, we can inspire the diverse talent pool the industry needs.
The skills we use today are the legacy of those who came before us, and it is our responsibility to pass those skills on. If you are looking for a career where you can leave a physical mark on the world and where your skills will always be in demand, construction is waiting for you.
