Jewson has announced that it will be the lead sponsor for the Landscape Gardening and Carpentry competitions at The Skills Show 2014. In addition, Jewson’s HR director Mike Warner will take to the floor to offer real insight into a rewarding career with a builders’ merchant.

Taking place from 13 to 15 November at the NEC in Birmingham, the show will provide hands-on demonstrations and advice on career opportunities. The aim is to inspire young people to explore further education, skills and apprenticeships.

As the lead competition sponsor, Jewson will provide a variety of building materials for the Landscape Gardening and Carpentry competitions. The event holds 60 competitions across five skill areas, allowing visitors to witness the specific skills brought to life across a range of trades, all competing on a national platform.

Promoting careers in the construction industry and encouraging the younger generation to learn skilled trades or to take up roles within merchanting is an issue that Jewson is firmly committed to.

“We can’t get away from the fact that there remains a skills shortage in the construction industry,” explained Mr Warner. “However, awareness is key to the issue. Young people need to understand all the options open to them when it comes to choosing a career path.

“That’s why Jewson is so passionate about actively encouraging young people into the construction industry, which offers a multitude of rewarding roles. The Skills Show is an ideal platform for us to help fly the flag – and a chance to talk directly to attendees about the opportunities within the merchant sector and beyond.”

On Friday 14 November at 1.55pm, Mr Warner will be presenting at the show, focussing on real people and real jobs, aiming to give attendees a realistic insight into a career in merchanting and the benefits it can bring.

Mr Warner concluded: “Construction is such a diverse and varied career path and as for working in the merchant sector, for me it’s been a rewarding and varied career. I am looking forward to sharing my experiences, passing on advice and helping others who want to set out on their own path.”