iConstruct

i-Construct 2026, the construction industry-led careers event run by Hampshire Construction Training Association (HCTA), attracted over 900 students in years 7-11 from 45 local secondary schools from across Hampshire to compete for this year’s awards.

The event took place at Civil Engineering Training Centre (CETC) and Centre of Excellence in Engineering, Manufacturing and Advanced Skills Training (CEMAST), part of South Hampshire College Group, on 15 and 16 October. Morgan Sindall Construction was headline sponsor, and the event extended its invitation to young people aged 16 and over from colleges and alternative provision organisations such as The King’s Trust, as part of HCTA’s work to reduce the number of young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET).

i-Construct gives young people a project to work on that shows them the range of careers in construction. Each team interviews a leading company about the part it plays in a fictitious construction project, researches the roles that company offers, and finds out about responsibilities and career routes of the people they met. With support, the students turned their findings into a Dragons’ Den style presentation for a judging panel, which will decide who goes forward for an award.

Those winning teams will be invited to an awards evening at Solent University on 13 January 2027 along with their parents and guardians.

Alongside the project, students tried out simulators, remote-control plant, VR headsets, drones, hands-on trades activities including bricklaying, carpentry, and drylining, and the Tech+Tour. They also spoke to further education providers about the next steps towards the careers they’re interested in.

While Morgan Sindall Construction proudly acted as headline sponsor, the success of i-Construct was made possible by the collective efforts of dozens of industry partners. From major contractors and specialist subcontractors to consultants, training providers, and professional institutions, each organisation brought something unique to the event.
Their willingness to invest time in engaging with young people, sharing experiences, and demonstrating the diverse opportunities available helped to inspire over 900 students and continues to strengthen the talent pipeline for the future of construction.

Susan Dee, Social Value Manager for Morgan Sindall Construction in the South and Committee Member of HCTA, said: “The construction sector can offer a wide variety of rewarding careers options, but it’s often overlooked by young people even though the sector is in desperate need of more young talent to ensure it has the people and skills to grow. This is why it’s so important that we introduce young people to this world and give them the knowledge they need to take their first steps into the industry.

“It’s fantastic to see even more students participate in this year’s i-Construct event. The problem-solving and creativity showcased from students has been outstanding, and we couldn’t be more proud of all the young people who took part. A huge thanks to everyone who supported another year of this incredible event, roll on the awards ceremony in January!”

Jason Woodward SHEQ Manager at P T Contractors Ltd and Committee Member, said: “When i-Construct was first conceived, the vision was simple but ambitious: to inspire as many young people as possible to consider a future in construction and the built environment. Reaching 1,000 students at a single event has always been a personal aspiration, so to see close to 950 students committed to attend this year is a truly proud moment.

“Every student who attends has the opportunity to meet employers, ask questions, challenge perceptions, and discover career pathways they may never previously have considered. This event would not be possible without the commitment of our partners, sponsors, educators, and the many businesses that generously give their time to make it happen. Seeing hundreds of young people leave with a new understanding of our industry reinforces why we started this journey and why we’re committed to growing the event even further in the years ahead.”

Anoushka Ottley, Executive Director of Business and Civic Partnerships at South Hampshire College Group, said: “We are proud to have hosted i-Construct at CETC and CEMAST for the past five years, inspiring thousands of young people to discover the wide range of opportunities available within the construction industry. Each year, it’s incredible to see students develop confidence, curiosity, and ambition as they engage directly with employers and industry professionals.

“Partnerships between education and industry are essential to developing the future workforce, and i-Construct is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared commitment to supporting young people.”
92% of the 612 students who gave feedback are now considering a career in construction or finding out more about one.”