A training academy has been launched to tackle the skills gap in the civil engineering sector.

The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Scotland has introduced the new training scheme with the support of five Scottish colleges, including West College Scotland Paisley.

The sector, which employs over 30,000 people, has £8.5 billion worth of infrastructure projects planned over the next decade.

The National Progression Award (NPA) in Construction Operations is a programme aimed at school leavers, with no entry requirements, and encourages applications from all backgrounds.

The successful completion of the 18-week course guarantees a job interview.

The programme, based at West College Scotland's Paisley campus, launched this month, welcoming 13 school leavers.

CECA representatives attended the launch event to welcome the new students and tour the facilities.

The course offers a hands-on learning experience, focusing on ground-related works such as finding services, digging, and working with concrete, kerbs, and drainage.

It also covers health, wellbeing, and working safety.

CECA representatives attended the launch event to welcome the new students and tour the facilities (Image: Supplied) Dr Lee Coutts, assistant principal for creativity, technology, and skills at West College Scotland, said: "Few industries shape our nation as profoundly as civil engineering.

"This dynamic field is a vital engine of economic growth in Scotland, underpinning key sectors such as roads, rail, water, and energy.

"We are delighted to partner with CECA on this exciting new offering to our curriculum to collaboratively support the workforce of the future."

The programme has already seen success with the first two tranches of candidates.

Four new entrants have been taken on by MacKenzie Construction, with regional director Mark Bramley praising their readiness and enthusiasm.

Mark said: "All of our new recruits have integrated seamlessly into our team.

"Although they still have much to learn, the baseline knowledge and experience, understanding of our expectations and immediate practical application of the skills they’ve gained, have made them fantastic work ready additions to our team."

He added: "The enthusiasm and motivation shown by the candidates has been a pleasure to witness, only matched by our own enthusiasm to continue to be associated with the CECA Scotland Academy, which provides an incredible stepping stone for much needed new entrants into a thriving industry with opportunity for fantastic long-term employment and progressive careers."