Research published by the Skills Training Group has predicted that the number of people employed as glaziers, window fabricators and fitters in UK will decline by 83.65% by 2049. According to the report, the number of glaziers, window fabricators and fitters fell by 36.41% between 2004 and 2020, from 54,100 to 34,400.
The trade trends report analysed 16 years worth of data from the Office for National Statistics, to assess the state of the UK workforce. Of all trades analysed in the report, the steepest decrease was identified as the steel sector, with workers declining by 47.93% between 2004 and 2020 (from 12,100 workers to 6,300).
The Skills Training Group’s data also showed that between 2004 and 2020, tradespeople within the roofing sector, thrived. Roofers, roof tilers and slaters increased by 14.06% within that period. Gardeners and farmers also increased, by 23.9% and 28.64% respectively.
Mark McShane, managing director at Skills Training Group, said: “For many industries, young people entering the workforce early in their careers means they can learn the craft and make it a long term career – with many being business owners by the time they are 30. But, in order to encourage young people to make these choices, businesses in the industry need to engage with young people, sharing their success stories to encourage a new workforce.
“While many young people may enter into a skilled trade through college and apprenticeships, a missed opportunity may be those that have opted to continue studying for A-levels. For these students, the general direction is to head off to university, so it’s no surprise that many may not have even considered a career in specific trades. This is where recruitment outside of the usual routes can prove fruitful.
“Communication and marketing needs to be a big part of each of the different industry’s goals. Young people will better engage with clear and smart communication. To attract and recruit new talent to the industry, its image needs to adapt as well. Companies and industries that make noise, engage with social media and shout about what makes their trades great will see the tide change in the amount of people wanting a job.”
