Last week on The Ripple Effect, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Errol Lawson—an entrepreneur, speaker, author, and all-round change-maker who is shaking up the way we think about construction careers.
Errol is the founder of the Building the Future Awards, an initiative dedicated to celebrating and showcasing the next generation of construction professionals. But this isn’t just about handing out trophies—it’s about changing the narrative, inspiring young people, and reshaping an industry that desperately needs fresh talent.
This conversation wasn’t just inspiring—it was a bold reminder that we need to act now to reshape the future of construction.
What inspired you to create the Building Future Awards, and what gap do you feel it fills in the industry?
"What inspires me the most is young people. I've spent the last 20-25 years working with young people in education—mentoring, coaching, delivering leadership training, motivational speaking in schools across the UK and abroad, and training teachers and leaders in education. I've always had a passion to see young people realise their full potential, to grow and become all they have the potential to be."
A few years ago, Errol had a conversation with Andy Street, then Mayor of the West Midlands, about the challenges facing the construction industry. They discussed the barriers preventing young people from entering the sector—outdated stereotypes, a lack of diversity, and an aging workforce.
"There’s this perception that construction is only for underachieving kids, for people coming out of prison, or that it’s not a place for women. On top of that, Brexit has impacted workforce numbers, and we simply aren’t bringing in enough new talent. So, I asked—'What can we do?"
That conversation sparked the idea for the Building the Future Awards—a movement designed to showcase and celebrate under-35-year-olds in the industry. But more than that, it’s about inspiring the next generation.
Through the awards, winners become mentors, ambassadors, and role models—going into schools, colleges, and organisations to challenge outdated perceptions and showcase the real opportunities available in construction.
"We want to prove that construction isn’t just about bricklaying, carpentry, and plumbing—it’s full of high-tech, innovative, and rewarding career paths. That’s what excites me the most."
Why is it so important to change the narrative around construction, and how can events like this play a role?
It’s no secret that construction has an image problem.
"The negative narrative has led educators, teachers, parents, and students to misunderstand what the sector truly entails and offers. Too many people still think of it as a ‘last-resort career."
That’s exactly why platforms like the Building the Future Awards are so vital. By shining a light on young professionals who are thriving in construction, they’re proving that this industry isn’t just relevant—it’s essential.
Beyond the awards, the initiative also hosts:
A Careers Fair—connecting young people directly with industry leaders A Construction Summit—featuring discussions on the future of the sector School Mentoring Programs—engaging directly with students to challenge misconceptions
And the next big event?
The Construction Summit is happening on June 18th in Birmingham at UCB—bringing together leaders, employers, and young professionals to keep this momentum going.
What role does collaboration and partnerships play in the success of the awards, and how can people get involved?
“Without our partners and sponsors, the awards wouldn’t exist. We’re fortunate to have some fantastic organizations backing our mission. This year, our headline sponsors are Wickes, The OM Group, and Equans. We also have incredible support from companies like Careys Construction, United Living, and many others who have stood with us in driving this initiative forward.”
But more partners are needed.
"We’re always looking to connect with companies who believe in what we’re doing. If you want to get involved—whether that’s through sponsorship, mentorship, or simply amplifying the message—we’d love to hear from you."
Visit www.buildingthefutureawards.co.uk or email info@buildingthefutureawards.co.uk to find out how you can be part of this movement.
Let’s stop talking about the skills gap—and start doing something about it.
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