Brims Construction are working alongside Sunderland City Council and Sunderland College to bring the Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (HICSA) project to life. Based at the heart of Riverside, Sunderland – the project is expected to complete in Summer 2025, the ground-breaking training facility will provide a skills provision for advanced construction, traditional craft and low carbon technologies.
HICSA will train, educate and upskill local people to be able to create new environmentally sustainable and energy efficient homes. The partnership with Sunderland College will assist with bridging the gap between education and the world of work.
An apprenticeship is an amazing opportunity to enter your chosen field of work, whilst learning practical skills, studying towards a recognised qualification and earning a wage.
We would like to introduce our new apprentice, who is part of our HICSA site team, Callum Barker.
Callum is undertaking an NVQ Level 2 Carpentry and Joinery Apprenticeship, where he is receiving site-based learning with Brims Construction and attending Sunderland College on a weekly basis.
“I am really enjoying the experience of working on site on the new HICSA project, whilst learning at college. I am very grateful to Brims Construction for this opportunity and look forward to developing my carpentry and joinery skills along the way”.
Callum Barker, Apprentice, Brims Construction
“It was important for Brims to have apprentices working on the HICSA Project, apprentices ensure the transfer of skills and knowledge from one generation to the next. The purpose of the HICSA scheme is to create a legacy for the construction industry, providing a facility, like no other, where young people can learn innovative new skills and trades.”
Jason Wood, Director, Brims Construction
In addition, Vaughan Engineering Services, our mechanical and electrical subcontractor on the HICSA project, have also taken on an apprentice. Daniel Dowling is studying a City & Guilds Level 3 Building Services Engineering Craftsperson qualification.
Chris Beckett, Project Manager at Vaughan Engineering Services said:
“Apprentices are essential to the construction industry because they ensure a steady flow of skilled workers, bridging the gap as experienced professionals retire. By learning on the job, apprentices gain hands-on experience and develop industry-specific skills, helping maintain high-quality workmanship. For companies, investing in apprenticeships not only builds a loyal, well-trained workforce but also fosters innovation, as new workers bring fresh perspectives. Additionally, apprenticeships support local economies by creating jobs and contributing to community development”
Pictured, as follows (L-R):
Jonny Pepper (Project Manager), Callum Barker (Apprentice Joiner), Michael Hall (Site Manager)