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Plans to establish a single Industry Training
Board by merging construction and engineering
boards in latest move to simplify the skills system and
strengthen industry leadership.
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Reforms designed to improve workforce planning, productivity
and better meet employers' skills needs.
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12-week consultation, launched today, seeks views
from employers, training providers and
stakeholders across England, Scotland and
Wales.
Industry voices and stakeholders are being asked
to shape the future of skills training
as a new consultation proposes the merger
of construction and engineering training boards.
This consultation is the latest step in the Government's drive to
future-proof the skills of the workforce and unlock the economic
growth the country needs.
The plans will create a single Industry Training Board
(ITB), uniting the
Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) and the
Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). This will simplify
the skills system, strengthen industry leadership and
give employers a clearer, stronger voice in shaping the workforce
they need.
Bringing the two boards together will mean more training, better
use of funding and clearer routes into skilled work. Employers
will find it easier to get the workers they need, and more people
will have the opportunity to build a career in construction and
engineering.
Work and Pensions Secretary said:
“Construction and engineering are the backbone of this country.
Their workforces build our
homes, power our communities and
lay the foundations for growth.
“We are committed to giving the next generation the high-quality,
employer-led training that leads to real jobs and real
careers.
“That's why we are working hand in hand with the
sector, ensuring employers get the skilled workforce
they need to drive productivity, deliver infrastructure and power
our clean energy future.”
These changes will ensure the UK can deliver on its priorities
including building 1.5 million homes, upgrading existing housing
to make it warmer and more affordable to heat, and delivering the
clean energy infrastructure needed to power economic growth. This
will strengthen how industry and government work together to plan
and deliver skills, helping employers recruit
and retain the talent they need.
Construction and engineering employers are already responding to
rising demand and rapid change. A single ITB will support this
effort by improving coordination, aligning training more closely
with labour market needs and driving productivity across the
sector.
The government is inviting views from employers, training
providers and stakeholders across England, Scotland and
Wales with the consultation closing on Sunday 14 June
2026.
Further details and how to respond are available here
