The webinar began with an introduction on the construction sector and its impact on both the economy and the environment. Participants also had the chance to learn more about the EU initiatives that aim to transform the sector, making it more sustainable and environmentally friendly. One such initiative is the Renovation Wave – a multifaceted initiative aiming to reduce emissions and create green jobs, among other objectives. 

Further setting the scene, the webinar also included an overview of the latest CEDEFOP forecast, which foresees high demand for workers in construction by 2035, with an emphasis on high-skilled candidates with green skills. 

One of the main challenges for the European construction sector is the complex task of coordinating initiatives across horizontal levels (e.g. EU, national) and vertical dimensions (e.g. labour market policy, vocational education and training (VET) systems, etc.). European social partners were highlighted as key allies in bridging these aspects, such as developing curricula, enhancing sector appeal, fostering collaboration among training providers, integrating new technologies and optimising work organisation. 

Inspiring examples from across Europe 

The webinar included a series of inspiring examples, which all underlined the importance of apprenticeships in equipping construction workers with the right skills for the green transition. 

A noteworthy example of collaboration between trainers and companies was the Spanish Erasmus+ project Habitable, which operates within the framework of Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVE). The project seeks to establish a successful apprenticeship training ecosystem, addressing company demands, including gender balance and the integration of workers with a migrant background. The project envisions the creation of innovation hubs between training centres and companies to facilitate training opportunities for teaching staff. 

Meanwhile Italy is making great efforts to increase the attractiveness of the construction sector among young people, by incentivising apprentices between 25-29 through various educational qualifications and innovative programmes. Promoting mobility among apprentices and introducing apprenticeships to adults was highlighted as key to supporting the green and digital transitions. 

Another good practice example came from Luxembourg, in particular the Institute for Training in Construction Sector (IFSB). The institute’s initiatives aim to equip apprentices with relevant skills for sustainable construction. These training programmes aim to reskill and upskill workers, preparing them for the emerging needs in sustainable construction practices. One particular training course, funded by the European Social Fund, focuses on carbon footprint and environmental regulations. 

Key challenges for the construction sector 

In the concluding segment of the webinar, the panellists were invited to discuss challenges within the construction sector and provide insights into the unique contributions of apprenticeships compared to other learning pathways. Some of the main points raised included the need to expand construction apprenticeships to include interdisciplinary skills, and the need to increase the appeal of the construction sector. Another speaker called for an EU-wide recognition of micro-credentials, which would greatly support knowledge transfer and worker mobility. 

Watch the recording of the webinar. 

You can download the event report from the Related documents section below.