Future Construction Professionals Connect with Industry Leaders at Preston College
Young people from across Lancashire gained valuable careers insight and industry knowledge during a speed networking event hosted by Preston College in partnership with the Eric Wright Learning Foundation, celebrating a successful partnership that has now entered its eleventh year.
The event brought together 14 to 16-year-old School Links construction learners studying at Preston College, including Year 10 pupils from Fulwood Academy, Christ the King Catholic High School, Parklands High School, Worden Academy, Brownedge St Mary’s Catholic High School, Holy Cross Catholic High School and St Michael’s Church of England High School.
Learners were welcomed by Mark Taylor, Director of School Construction and iSTEM at Preston College, alongside representatives from the Eric Wright Learning Foundation, who outlined the opportunities available within the construction sector and highlighted the value of employer engagement in shaping future careers.
As part of the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting young people entering the industry, each pupil received a full set of personal protective equipment (PPE), including work boots, a hoodie, T-shirt, high-visibility vest and gloves. The PPE was generously provided by the Eric Wright Learning Foundation.
Following the welcome session, School Links pupils were joined by Preston College’s Construction T Level students for a professional speed networking activity. The event provided learners with the opportunity to meet and question experienced professionals from across the sector, gaining first-hand insight into a range of career pathways and specialisms.
Representatives included Neal Whittle, Managing Director of Eric Wright Water; Gavin Hulme, Managing Director of Eric Wright Civil Engineering; Tim Rackham, Managing Director of Applethwaite; James Scott, Managing Director of Maple Grove Developments; Chris Birrell, Design Director of West Lancs Group; Peter Kearney, Construction Director of PLF; alongside specialists from construction, facilities management, quantity surveying, design and site management roles.
The speed networking format enabled the professionals to rotate between tables of students and discuss career journeys, industry challenges, skills requirements and emerging opportunities within construction, civil engineering, water and facilities management sectors.
Phil Burgess, Curriculum Leader for the School Links Programme at Preston College, said:
“Our partnership with the Eric Wright Learning Foundation continues to create outstanding opportunities for young people to engage directly with industry and gain a deeper understanding of the careers available to them.
“The speed networking event allowed our School Links pupils and T Level students to hear real-life experiences from professionals working across the construction sector, helping them make informed decisions about their future pathways.
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the professionals who generously gave up their time to share their expertise, experiences and advice. Their support and commitment to inspiring the next generation of construction professionals is invaluable, and events like this demonstrate the strength of the partnership between Preston College and the Eric Wright Learning Foundation.”
Emma Gardner, Eric Wright Learning Foundation, Education Co-ordinator added:
“Providing students with early opportunities to develop networking skills and engage directly with industry experts is incredibly beneficial. These experiences enable them to gain valuable insights, ask meaningful questions, and broaden their understanding of future career pathways. Collaborating with college colleagues in this way helps to further enrich the learning experience and outcomes for students.”
The event forms part of a wider programme of activities delivered through the long-standing partnership between Preston College and the Eric Wright Learning Foundation, providing learners with meaningful employer engagement opportunities and helping to develop the skilled workforce of the future.
