Government has launched an employer led Strategic Transport Apprenticeship Taskforce (STAT) to help the sector address a skills gap and increase the diversity of its workforce.

The taskforce aims to support an ambition to create 30,000 new apprenticeships in transport by 2020. Its work will focus on shaping quality training for new entrants and the existing workforce, as well as promoting careers in the sector to young people.

In pursuit of this goal the group will look to dispel the ‘outdated stereotype’ that work in the industry necessarily means men in hard hats, instead highlighting the full range of roles that will appeal to a variety of people.

Transport Minister Lord Ahmad said: “Transport these days is about computers in laboratories as much as cranes in landfill sites. That is why STAT will help inspire and enable people from all walks of life to choose transport and ensure we have the diverse and skilled workforce we need to deliver our ambitious agenda.”

The taskforce will be chaired by HS2 chief executive Simon Kirby, who started his career as a British Rail apprentice. He said: “Being an apprentice was a great opportunity for me to pursue a vocational education and gain experience in the workplace, while learning at the same time.

“I used my apprenticeship as a springboard for my career. I am therefore delighted to be appointed as the chair of STAT.”

He added: “Employers should see taking on an apprentice as an opportunity to develop skills within their business and this in turn can help young people to develop long and successful careers within their chosen sector.

“It is vital that we also inspire people from all different backgrounds to become an apprentice so that we can create a diverse workforce capable of delivering the unprecedented number of transport projects currently in the pipeline.”

CIHT said it was supportive of the new taskforce and will continue to work with the Department for Transport and industry stakeholders on the transport infrastructure skills agenda.

(Photo: Transport for London)