The Engineering Construction Industry Association (ECIA) welcomes the introduction of carbon capture initiatives across the sector. These projects represent a significant opportunity for industry growth, the advancement of new technologies, and the development of critical skills while supporting the government’s commitment to achieving its net-zero strategy.
However, this positive momentum also brings challenges. The existing skills shortage within the engineering construction industry may be exacerbated by the increased demand for a qualified workforce. While the appeal of working on environmentally sustainable projects may attract younger and emerging talent, meeting this demand will require a proactive and coordinated approach from employers.
The ECIA is proud to be actively involved in a series of initiatives within the Net Zero Teesside programme. Our Regional Industrial Relationship Manager, Tony Lloyd, recently joined a collaborative group with representatives from the NZT NEP Client Consortium, Managing Contractor Consortium, ECITB, Tees Valley Combined Authority, local colleges, and employers to design a practical pathway for young people to access education and hands-on experience. This programme aims to equip the next generation with the skills necessary to support the successful delivery of carbon capture projects in the Teesside region.
The ECIA supports the ECITB regional skills hubs, which focus on alternative entry pathways for individuals with transferable skills to enter the industry and meet the needs of carbon capture initiatives. The collaborative approach between the ECITB, ECIA, and Unions seeks to remove barriers and increase opportunities for Apprentices and Adult entrants to the Engineering Construction Industry (ECI). This is part of the ECITB/NJC Strategy Review Group, which looks for longer-term gains and the development of the skills agenda to support the growing ECI requirements due to Net Zero and other low-carbon projects, such as Port Talbot and the Sustainable Fuels agenda.
In partnership with the ECITB, the ECIA is also developing the ACE Card, a cross-industry skills recognition tool designed to facilitate smoother workforce transitions into emerging sectors such as carbon capture.
Additionally, our regional teams are engaging with clients and employers to ensure that these projects are delivered under the National Agreement for the Engineering Construction Industry (NAECI). This framework promotes best practices in workforce management, industrial relations, and productivity, ensuring projects are completed efficiently, on time, and within budget.
The ECIA welcomes the rise of emerging technologies as a catalyst for growth across our membership and the wider engineering construction sector. Addressing the industry’s skills shortage demands a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach, and we are proud to be working alongside key industry partners to co-develop effective, forward-looking solutions.