Age gradation in the UK building industry moves to the better side

All previous studies over the past 30 years on age distribution have confirmed that British construction workforce is aging. For years, we were warned about a demographic time bomb in the construction industry. However, perhaps we no longer need to worry. But what is the current situation regarding the age of workers, and how might it develop in the future?

The main source: Skills card data suggests construction’s age profile is finally improving

What is the current situation in the industry?

Since the expansion of university access under Tony Blair, young people have shown less interest in the construction industry. That has been the narrative. However, now there is new data that challenges this assumption.

Data from the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), the organization that manages construction skill cards in the UK, indicates an increase in the proportion of young people entering the industry.

Cardholder data shows that 25.2% of CSCS cards in 2025 were held by individuals under the age of 30. This is higher than just 17% in 2021. An increase of eight percentage points in the share of 20–29-year-olds holding CSCS cards in just four years.

How will age gradation move in the near future?

Although not everyone working in the construction industry holds a CSCS card, far from it, the data clearly challenges the widespread belief that the number of young people choosing a career in construction is declining.

CSCS Chief Executive Sean Kearns said: “Our digital tools provide unique insight into who is actually working on construction sites and who is just entering the industry, based on verified registration data. It is incredibly positive to see young people choosing a career in construction. The focus now must be on continuous upskilling and retaining this talent across the industry, ensuring the development of an adaptive, forward-looking workforce ready for long-term growth.”

Fencyx, as one of the leaders in the UK building industry, follows this situation. We are pleased to see the younger generation entering the construction industry andhope they will bring new ideas and drive the industry forward.

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