Deeside Timberframe says attracting the next generation into modern construction will be critical to meeting the UK’s housing ambitions.
The conversation around housing delivery has rightly focused on planning reform, funding and accelerating the construction of new homes. However, one of the greatest challenges facing the industry remains the availability of skilled people.
Across the UK, the construction sector continues to experience shortages in key trades, particularly bricklayers, alongside an ageing workforce and increasing pressure to deliver more homes in less time. At the same time, the UK Government has set ambitious housing targets, with affordable housing providers, developers and contractors all under increasing pressure to improve programme certainty, productivity and build quality.
For Deeside Timberframe, these challenges also present an opportunity.
As offsite timber frame construction continues to gain momentum, the skills required to deliver housing are evolving. Modern methods of construction rely not only on traditional construction expertise, but also on digital design, advanced manufacturing, engineering and precision assembly. This creates new career pathways and broadens the appeal of construction for future generations.
Rather than simply discussing the industry’s skills challenge, Deeside Timberframe is committed to helping address it.
Earlier this year, the company welcomed construction students and apprentices from Glasgow Clyde College to its Throsk manufacturing facility, providing an opportunity to experience modern timber frame manufacturing first-hand.
The visit gave students an insight into every stage of the process, from digital design and 3D modelling through to precision manufacturing, automated cutting technology, panel assembly and quality assurance. For many, it demonstrated how today’s construction industry extends far beyond what happens on site.
Following the visit, one attendee commented:
“Our visit to Deeside Timberframe was an outstanding learning experience for both our staff and apprentices. Seeing first-hand the digital design processes, 3D modelling technology and state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities gave us a much deeper appreciation of the precision and innovation behind modern timber frame construction. For apprentices who often only see the installation phase on site, this provided invaluable insight into the design, engineering and manufacturing work that underpins what they build. We are extremely grateful to the team for their time, insights, and hospitality.”
Alongside its engagement with colleges and training providers, Deeside Timberframe is also investing in the development of its own workforce. The business has introduced structured four-year development plans for Trainee Fabricators within its manufacturing operations, providing a clear pathway for employees to develop the technical knowledge and practical skills required to build high-performance timber frame systems. The programme forms part of a wider commitment to long-term skills development across the business, with future training continuing to evolve alongside the needs of modern manufacturing.
Mark Robertson, Technical Director at Deeside Timberframe, said:
“The industry needs to think differently about how it develops people. Modern timber frame manufacturing combines engineering, digital technology and precision production, so it’s important that we’re creating structured development pathways that equip people with the skills they’ll need not only today, but throughout their careers. Investing in our people is essential if we’re going to build the capacity the industry needs for the future.”
For Deeside Timberframe, engaging with education providers while developing talent internally is about demonstrating the breadth of opportunities available within modern construction. Offsite manufacturing requires designers, engineers, manufacturing technicians, project managers, logistics specialists and skilled installation teams, all working together to deliver high-quality homes more efficiently.
This collaborative approach also helps address some of the labour challenges currently facing the sector. By transferring much of the construction process into a controlled manufacturing environment, timber frame reduces reliance on some of the trades that remain in short supply, while improving consistency, quality and programme certainty.
As demand for affordable and private housing continues to grow across the UK, these benefits are becoming increasingly important. Faster construction programmes, reduced site labour requirements and predictable manufacturing schedules all support developers and housing providers looking to deliver more homes without compromising on quality.
David Crawford, Managing Director of Deeside Timberframe, added:
“If the industry is serious about delivering the homes the UK needs, we have to be equally serious about developing the people who will build them. Offsite construction is helping address some of today’s labour challenges, but continued investment in skills, training and modern manufacturing will be just as important if we’re to increase housing delivery over the long term.”
By opening its manufacturing facilities to students, supporting the development of its own workforce and continuing to invest in modern manufacturing, Deeside Timberframe hopes to play a meaningful role in helping build the skilled workforce the industry will need in the years ahead.
For more information, email info@deesidetimberframe.com or call 01569 767 123.
