What is the Pact for Skills in construction?

The Pact for Skills is one of the flagship actions of the European Skills Agenda launched by the European Commission, which aims to help public and private organisations upskill and reskill in order to advance the green and digital transitions. The members of the Pact have access to knowledge on skills upgrading and re-skilling needs, advice on relevant funding instruments to boost adult skills in their regions and countries, and partnership opportunities within the European community.

Its primary goal is to stimulate collaborative efforts among key public and private stakeholders. The aim is clear: to foster high-quality investments in Vocational Education and Training (VET) that are tailored to various productive ecosystems, with the construction industry as one of them.

Within this industry, the main sectoral organisations in the European Union, namely FIEC, EFBWW, and EBC, have developed and launched the Pact for Skills for Construction. This specific initiative seeks to support a just and resilient recovery while actively contributing to key transitions, such as the shift towards green practices and the integration of digital technologies.

Calling for concrete commitments by construction, training and education stakeholders at all levels, this Pact aims at mobilising a concerted effort among private and public partners for quality investment in Vocational Education and Training, as well as in knowledge, skills and competences to the benefit the European construction sector workforce.

To better promote current and upcoming career options in construction, this Pact for Skills in Construction identifies 5 key principles to improve the quality and quantity of skills in construction:

1. Building strong partnerships, including with VET institutions;
2. Monitoring occupational supply/demand and anticipating knowledge, skills and competences needs;
3. Working against discrimination;
4. Attracting more young people and women in the sector;
5. Promoting a culture of lifelong learning for all, supported by adapted incentives.

Central to its core principles is the imperative of attracting young talent to the sector (Principle 4), recognising their significance in shaping its future career.

In this context, the Pact for Youth project aligns with the Pact for Skills principles (especially Principle 4) and stands as an active supporter of its objectives. Through the design and implementation of tailored actions, the project intends to amplify opportunities for young individuals within the construction industry. Moreover, it aims to confront the current shortage of skilled labour force while supporting pathways for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to effectively adapt to the evolving context.

Who can join the Pact?

National, regional and local authorities; companies; social partners; inter-professional and sectoral organisations; chambers of commerce; education and training providers; employment services… all can become members of the Pact for Skills for the construction sector.

If you want to become a member of the Pact, all you need to do is fill in this form.