The most recent Local Skills Scotland 2026 report shows that, while Scotland is anticipated to have sufficient construction workforce capacity overall between this year and 2030, workers and skills are not evenly distributed in Scotland, with some areas facing major recruitment issues.

The analysis states that proposed energy infrastructure projects in the Highlands and Islands, such as offshore wind, transmission networks, pumped storage hydro and green hydrogen developments, could increase demand twofold for construction workers in the area if they proceed as planned. 

This would heighten construction workforce demand in Scotland by roughly 12%.

The report signifies the importance of Workforce North, the initiative set up to help ensure the region has the people and skills needed to support Scotland’s energy transition and economic growth goals. 

The report also suggests Scotland cannot depend on importing labour to satisfy future demand. 

Research reveals that 99% of Scotland’s construction workers both live and work in Scotland, while workers typically travel shorter distances than their counterparts in the UK. 

The research strengthens the argument for early workforce planning and closer alignment between investment plans, training provision and future labour demand. 

More collaboration between industry, government, training providers and stakeholders to understand future workforce requirements and to ensure training matches employer demand has been recommended in the report. 

Ian Hughes, CITB engagement director Scotland, said: “There is a significant opportunity for the construction industry in Scotland. 

“However, projects do not build themselves. Behind every wind farm, energy network, road, school or housing development is a skilled construction workforce.

Hughes added: “Scotland needs to plan ahead if it is to meet the upcoming demand.

“Workforce North is an important opportunity for industry, government and training providers to work together to build the skills that are needed to support future investment.”

Elaine Ellis, skills planning manager (Construction and Net Zero) at Skills Development Scotland, said: “The pipeline of work surrounding Infrastructure and Energy alone will bring massive opportunity both at a sector and regional level. 

“Workforce North project recognises the importance of the regional opportunity and the importance of acting now to help secure the future workforce needed.”

Ellis added: “This research by CITB helps bring clarity to the scale of the workforce and skills challenge that sits behind the pipeline potential.”