New government scheme aims to tackle 35,000 empty construction jobs
Leeds College of Building is among the organisations trying to get more young people into construction
The Department for Education says that one million extra construction workers will be needed in six year's time - while employer investment in training continues to fall.
That's why the government department has launched a campaign to recruit and train 60,000 skilled professionals in the construction sector.
Nikki Carthy is Degree Apprenticeship Development Curriculum Manager at Leeds College of Building, a Further Education teaching position after a 19-year career as a quantity surveyor.
Carthy admits that initially, she didn't know what a quantity surveyor was, but once she started, she "absolutely loved it".
Carthy said: "I think the challenge is making sure that everybody understands they're welcome and that there is a position for everybody within construction.
"Schools have got a really challenging job of guiding 16-year-olds into what they want to do for their future career.
"But I feel like construction doesn't get the airtime that the more academic routes do."
Carthy pointed to the benefits of a construction career path rather than a more academic one - specifically the chances for career progression.
Carthy said: "We have some that start with us straight from school.
"And then within six, seven years we're meeting the new generation, and our older apprentices are their line managers.
"I don't think it's a secret that there are skills shortages within construction. But what there isn't is a talent shortage."