Construction EXPO North: Turning Apprenticeship Intent into Impact

Building clear, effective workforce strategies that deliver long-term value.

Cidori recently attended Construction EXPO North, where discussions across the sector highlighted a critical challenge facing the construction industry: translating strong intent around apprenticeships into consistent, effective delivery.

Representing Cidori, Matt Drury attended alongside Matt Phillips seen here from the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, engaging with a broad range of construction professionals to better understand how workforce strategies are being implemented in practice.

A clear theme emerged throughout the event. Apprenticeships are widely recognised as essential to the future of the industry. However, their role within organisational strategy is not always clearly defined.

While some businesses have successfully embedded apprenticeships into structured workforce models – offering clear progression, support, and long-term value – others are still determining how best to integrate them. Key challenges include aligning apprenticeships with business needs, providing consistent support, and ensuring sustainable retention.

These findings closely align with broader industry concerns around attracting, developing, and retaining talent. The conversations reinforced an important reality: bringing new talent into the sector is only part of the solution. Long-term success depends on the strength of the structures and support systems surrounding them.

Importantly, the issue is not a lack of effort.

Across the sector, there is clear commitment to developing the workforce. The challenge lies in achieving consistency and cohesion in how these efforts are implemented.

As focus on skills development continues to grow, the industry is approaching a pivotal period. Over the next 12-18 months, organisations that move beyond intent and towards structured, strategic approaches to apprenticeships are likely to see the greatest impact.

Cidori continues to work with partners across the sector to support this transition – helping organisations build clear, effective workforce strategies that deliver long-term value.