A new survey by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has found that only 47% of UK adults would encourage their child to pursue a career as a builder, compared to 53% who would not. This is despite FMB member firms averaging an annual turnover of over £1 million, highlighting the huge earning potential that a career in construction can unlock.
The findings also come as thousands of young people across the UK open their GCSE results and consider their next steps, whether pursuing A Levels, starting college or entering the world of work. The generational divide is also striking:
- Younger generations - particularly those aged 16–21 - were the least supportive, with the majority saying they would not recommend a building career to their children/ potential children.
- Those aged 26–44 were the most positive, suggesting that once people experience working life - and the realities of debt, insecure jobs, and high costs - they recognise the value of a skilled trade.
Despite lingering perceptions, the figures show construction stacks up against graduate careers:
- Builder salaries: According to the ONS Average Weekly Earnings (AWE) dataset, the average construction worker now earns around £42,224 a year. However, the ultimate goal for many construction workers is to start their own firms. Highlighting the vast potential this route offers, among FMB members - which represent some of the most skilled in the UK - the average annual turnover is a staggering £1 million.
- University careers in comparison: General marketing roles average £32,386 according to Glassdoor; graphic designers earn around £29,223 (Indeed); and accountants average £38,015 (Indeed).
- Graduate debt burden: The Student Loans Company reports that the average graduate in England now leaves university with debts of around £53,000.
At the same time, industry demand has never been higher. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates that 61,000 new workers are needed every year to meet the government’s target of 1.5 million new homes by 2030 - meaning today’s school leavers and young adults have an unprecedented opportunity to build successful businesses in the trades.
Chris Carr, National President of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), said:
“It’s striking that the parents or potential parents most recently out of education themselves are the least likely to back a trade career - but those in their late twenties, thirties and forties, who have experienced the reality of student debt and insecure jobs, are the most supportive. That tells us we’ve got a serious perception gap to close when it comes to the opportunities available in construction.
“Construction offers young people a stable, rewarding and well-paid career path without the burden of student loans. It’s also a brilliant path for those that are entrepreneurial, as you can establish your own businesses and turnover a significant sum - with FMB members averaging £1m and they range from sole traders to much needed house builders. With the country needing 61,000 new workers each year to meet housing targets, there has never been a better moment to join the trades.”
