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How we’re engineering a solution to the industry’s skills gap

50% of firms in the sector are struggling for talent.¹ Despite being in the midst of a skills shortage, we’re proud to have seen real growth over the past 12 months – recruiting 22 new starters since April 2021 spanning civils, structures, transport planning and ground engineering works.

In our previous blog we touched on how we are re-focussing our recruitment strategy, firstly by appointing Kirstie Williams, People & Development Manager. A year on and it’s safe to say issues surrounding acquisition of talent still exist in the industry but we’re tackling them head on with our people-focussed strategy. Read on to find out how we’re employing a people-focussed approach throughout the business and to get the latest updates from some of our Jubb team.

Steps towards a people-focused approach

Back in November 2020, we appointed Kirstie Williams, People and Development Manager. Kirstie has developed a more structured learning pathway, category leading wellbeing package and values-based recruitment process.

Specific initiatives evolving our people-focused approach are:

• The progressive ‘Learning Pathways’ programme which includes rejuvenating the on-boarding process in a purposeful way helping new starters see beyond their role
• Investing in pioneering tools to equip people to learn more about themselves in a personal and professional capacity. Providing access to Strengthscope – a strengths assessment tool – as well as the NHS approved mental wellbeing app, Thrive
• An employee focus group to inform and contribute to the company’s people strategy moving forwards and ensure the EDI movement keeps momentum

Kirstie Williams, People and Development Manager, comments:

“I’m proud of what’s already been achieved in little over a year and the brilliant team we’re bringing with us. The programme is appealing and accommodating to all colleagues – from the very senior and experienced through to those just starting out in their careers.

Everyone, at every level, wants to be part of a supportive, inclusive and forward-thinking company culture that’s making change happen.”

Meet new members of the Jubb team

Industry entrants include Ngozi Blessing Orji-Chukuu who is  joining Jubb during her third year at the University of South Wales. Read about her journey with Jubb so far.

More experienced engineers starting their journey with Jubb include Civil Engineer Keron Perumal, recently making the move from South Africa, and Rob Hooker – formerly of Hydrock – taking on a key leadership role as Head of Ground Engineering.

To stay up to date with the latest team developments at Jubb, follow us on Linkedin.

References:

¹Over half of UK engineering design firms experiencing skills shortages says survey: https://pwemag.co.uk/news/fullstory.php/aid/4781/Over_half_of_UK_engineering_design_firms_experiencing_skills_shortages_says_survey.html