Fifteen students have graduated from the Department for Infrastructure’s Civil Engineering Skills Academy and will now have the opportunity to interview for permanent roles within the Department.

The Academy, now in its second year, is a partnership between the Department and Belfast Metropolitan College. Participants were introduced to civil engineering and gained skills and knowledge in areas such as surveying, contract management, construction, traffic management, health and safety, personal development, teamwork, communication and IT essentials.

The programme also provides participants with the chance to earn industry-recognised accredited qualifications.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins met the latest cohort of graduates and said civil engineering underpins all of the Department’s work, from the roads used daily to water supply and flood defences. She added that the combination of study and the prospect of employment offers a strong route into the profession and will help meet future infrastructure needs.

Damian Duffy, Principal and Chief Executive of Belfast Met, said the College valued the continuing partnership with the Department. He noted that the Academy built on the success of the previous year by delivering practical, employer-led training aligned with workplace requirements. Participants developed their knowledge, confidence and understanding throughout the programme, and Belfast Met remained committed to providing targeted skills routes into employment.