CIOB Aspire is a new initiative designed to inspire and support individuals aged 14-19, as well as those interested in a career change, looking to take their first steps towards building a career in the construction industry. 

Whether still in school, recently graduated, or thinking about a fresh start in a new industry, CIOB Aspire is here to support individuals every step of the way. 

A new digital space has been created to signpost to useful resources and websites, including: 

• Information on the wide range of roles in construction, apprenticeships, CIOB accredited courses and where to get started.
• Industry insights including blogs and videos from some of our Tomorrow’s Leaders Community.
• Links to support finding early career opportunities through CIOB Jobs or CIOB Company Members.
• Information for CIOB members, parents, employers and educators on how to support a career in construction.
• Useful website links of CIOB partners and other organisations working in this space.

We’ll be adding more information over the coming months, including new marketing resources aimed at students, educators, parents and employers. 

Cross-sector collaboration

As well as the digital resources, CIOB is also collaborating with partners and organisations already working in the early careers space to provide opportunities for this audience and will continue to explore further partnerships. 

We encourage our members and industry professionals in the UK & Northern Ireland to sign up as construction ambassadors through the STEM Ambassador Scheme, providing a safe platform to connect with educators and 14–19-year-olds in schools and colleges. 

Earlier this year CIOB also relaunched our Think Construction Toolkit, consisting of lesson plans, interactive activities and presentation templates to support those engaging in 14-19 activity. Over 18s can sign up to access the toolkit here.

As of last month, CIOB has also signed up as a partner for Open Doors 2026. Delivered by Build UK from March 23-28 2026, Open Doors takes visitors behind the scenes to showcase the fantastic range of careers available in the UK construction industry.

CIOB has also become a social mobility partner with Speakers for Schools, and recently provided three engagement activity sessions with Berkshire secondary school Charters School in Sunningdale.