The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT) welcomes the UK Government's announcement of plans to give technical education greater prominence within the education system, recognising the important role that vocational and technical pathways play in developing the future workforce.

The proposals would enable young people to access technical education, work experience and employer engagement opportunities from the age of 14, while strengthening links between schools, colleges, employers and local leaders to create clearer routes into skilled employment. The UK Government has described the reforms as a move towards placing technical education on an equal footing with traditional academic routes.

More information about the announcement can be read here. 

CIHT believes the announcement reflects a growing recognition that the UK needs a wider range of pathways into professional careers and that technical skills are critical to delivering the infrastructure, transport systems and public services on which communities and the economy depend.

The announcement comes at a time when the highways and transportation sector continues to face skills and workforce challenges. Employers across the industry have highlighted the need to attract new talent while developing capabilities in areas such as digital technologies, decarbonisation, resilience, asset management and major project delivery.

CIHT has long championed multiple pathways into the profession through its support for apprenticeships, accredited qualifications, professional registration, mentoring and continuing professional development. The institution believes that achieving a more sustainable and resilient transport system will require investment not only in infrastructure, but also in the people and skills needed to plan, design, build, operate and maintain it.

The Institution also sees an opportunity to raise awareness of highways and transportation careers among younger audiences and to strengthen connections between education and employment. Earlier engagement with employers could help more young people understand the breadth of opportunities available within the sector and the positive impact transport professionals have on society, the economy and the environment.

CIHT will continue to work with the UK Government, policy makers, industry partners, employers, and education providers to support pathways into the profession and ensure that individuals can progress from education into successful and rewarding careers in highways, transportation and infrastructure.