A total of 140 students have been employed by CECA Scotland member companies since the Academy was founded in 2023.

Hughes said: “It was great to visit the CECA Scotland Academy at Dundee and Angus College and see first-hand the positive impact it is having on developing the next generation of talent for the construction industry.

“Having 140 students employed by CECA Scotland member companies since the Academy launched in 2023 is a fantastic achievement.”

Hughes added: “It was particularly valuable to hear directly from former students about their experiences and how the Academy has helped them take their first steps into the industry.”

As part of the Infrastructure Sector Skills Plan, the CITB funds the CECA Scotland Academies, supporting the development of future skilled workers and paving the way for employment within the sector.

Hughes was accompanied by David MacDonald of CECA Scotland, CECA Scotland chair Barry Angus of I&H Brown, past chair Mark Oakley of Hunter Construction, and board member Tony Fry of George Leslie, during his visit to the academy. 

The visit coincided with a Meet the Students event, where CECA Scotland member companies met current students to introduce their businesses, discuss the work they deliver and give an insight into the various career opportunities in civil engineering and construction.

Hughes was also able to speak with ex-CECA Scotland Academy students who had been employed by member companies to share their experiences. 

David Macdonald, regional director, said: “It was great to welcome Ian Hughes from CITB to Dundee & Angus College to witness the progress being made through the CECA Academy.

“Bringing students, lecturers and industry together is vital to creating clear pathways into civil engineering.”

Macdonald added: “The Academy is about turning opportunity into employment, helping address the industry’s skills challenges while giving the next generation the knowledge, confidence and support to build rewarding careers.”

Looking ahead, the CECA Scotland Academy will continue to work in collaboration with CITB, Dundee and Angus College and CECA Scotland member companies to foster the skills, knowledge and experience required to support the future of the civil engineering and construction workforce in Scotland.