Urban Union hosts work placements from City of Glasgow College

In a bid to support early careers and encourage more young people into the construction industry, regeneration specialist Urban Union recently provided students with work placements.

Urban Union, who deliver large-scale housing led regeneration projects, ran the three-week programme in conjunction with City of Glasgow College to provide students with hands-on experience and introduce them to different aspects of the construction industry.

Each student spent time on live construction sites, participated in practical activities and explored different job roles to further develop the necessary skills required for a career in construction.

The students were assigned mentors to support them throughout the process, and following the completion of their work placements were awarded certificates.

Urban Union is part of Robertson Group, a family-owned business that is committed to attracting, supporting, developing and retaining young people whilst ensuring they achieve their full potential and career aspirations. Part of its commitment to the communities where it works, is to provide training and learning opportunities which in turn will improve the diversity of its workforce. Robertson looks to attract a new generation into its family of businesses, and to build a strong talent pipeline.

Jay Power, one of the students who took part in the programme, impressed an on-site subcontractor and was hired as a trainee joiner. Jay's CSCS Card was funded by Urban Union to support him with this opportunity.

Jay commented: "I've always wanted a career in construction, and after working as a chef, I decided to follow my passion and enrol in college. The work experience programme gave me the platform I needed to showcase my ambition and to get my foot in the door, because of this opportunity I have now started full-time, and am enjoying every day.

"I would recommend anyone, regardless of your age, to seize any opportunity you get and to give it your all. I am grateful to Urban Union for helping me kickstart my career in construction."

Neil McKay, managing director, Urban Union, said: "Supporting young people and making sure they have the right opportunities to enable them to further their career is an important part of what we do. We pride ourselves on having a valuable impact on the communities where we work.

"Together with City of Glasgow College, we created an inclusive and diverse programme which has further developed the students' existing skills through engagement on a live construction site. It was a pleasure to host every student and to support their career progression through these work placements."

The students spent their time on-site at Pollokshaws, Laurieston and Hamiltonhill, where Urban Union is currently delivering three developments with Glasgow City Council, New Gorbals Housing Association and Queens Cross Housing Association.