As the UK construction industry grapples with a critical skills shortage, family-owned contractor Beard is doubling down on its commitment to developing young talent, with one of its longest-serving directors highlighting the transformative impact of apprenticeships on both individuals and the business.
Dean Averies, who joined Beard as a 16-year-old apprentice in 1988, has risen through the ranks to become a director and leader of the company’s 110-strong Oxford team. His journey from a school leaver with no clear career path to a construction industry leader underscores the value of investing in young people.
“When I left school, careers advice was limited, and I had no idea what roles existed in construction,” Dean recalls. “I sent hand-written letters to around 50 companies, and Beard was the only one to offer me a chance. Their support for young people was unusual at the time, as many other firms were asking for degrees.”
Dean’s story is not just a testament to his own determination but also to Beard’s longstanding ethos of nurturing talent. His 22-year-old son, Corey, is now following in his father’s footsteps as a carpenter, having joined Beard as an apprentice six years ago.
Dean Averies with son Corey
A Legacy of Opportunity
Beard’s commitment to apprenticeships comes at a crucial time for the construction sector. Industry estimates suggest that more than 250,000 additional workers will be needed by 2028 to meet demand. To address this challenge, Beard is actively investing in the next generation of talent, offering apprenticeships to young people as early as age 16—a rarity in an industry where many firms require prior qualifications or higher education.
Currently, the company supports 10 employees on degree apprenticeships and a further four in apprenticeship roles. Melissa Barber, Beard’s head of people and communications, emphasizes the importance of this approach: “Dean’s story is a great example of why investing in young people has always been important to us. The skills shortage in construction is well-known, and we must take big steps to train, support, and retain talent at all ages.”
Building Futures, Strengthening the Industry
Beard’s apprenticeship program is not just about filling gaps in the workforce; it’s about creating fulfilling and rewarding careers. The company actively engages with schools and colleges to improve careers advice and showcase the diverse opportunities available in construction.
“Beard took a chance on me as a teenager,” Dean reflects. “Now, in my role as director, I see it as my responsibility to do the same for the next generation. Those joining us today are the next generation of industry leaders. We need to do everything possible to attract, develop, and retain them.”
As National Apprenticeship Week kicks off on 10 February, Beard is shining a spotlight on the transformative power of apprenticeships. For Dean, the impact of Beard’s investment in young talent is deeply personal. “Had Beard not supported me, I don’t think I would be working in construction today,” he says. “The support I received—through on-the-job training, professional qualifications, and career development—shaped my entire career. I’m proud to see the company continuing that legacy with a new generation of apprentices.”
For more information about Beard’s apprenticeship and career opportunities, visit https://www.beardconstruction.co.uk/careers.
