Hampshire students explore construction careers at i-Construct 2026

Over 900 students from 45 secondary schools across Hampshire participated in the i-Construct 2026 careers event. Organized by the Hampshire Construction Training Association (HCTA), the industry-led initiative aimed to showcase various career pathways and inspire the next generation of workers.

Participants, including students in years 7 through 11 and young people aged 16 and over from colleges and organizations like The King’s Trust, worked in teams to analyze a fictitious construction project. Teams interviewed industry companies, researched specific roles, and delivered presentations to a judging panel in a format similar to Dragons’ Den.

The event featured practical technology and hands-on training, such as virtual reality headsets, drones, simulators, and remote-controlled plant machinery. Students also engaged in trades activities including carpentry, bricklaying, and drylining. Winning teams will be recognized at an awards ceremony at Solent University on January 13, 2027.