The Cumbria-born head of one of the UK’s leading construction firms has urged young people from his home town to follow in his footsteps.

Phil Harrison, managing director of Wates Construction Midlands and North, met with students at Furness College to provide them with an insight into the construction industry and the diversity of roles available.

His visit was part of a wider programme of education engagement as part of Wates’ role as lead contractor on the construction of BAE Systems’ new Central Training Facility in Barrow.

Mr Harrison began his own career as an apprentice in a Barrow shipyard, studying at the college to gain further qualifications at the same time. He went on to gain a degree in construction at Sheffield University and now oversees a £300m business and over 350 members of staff delivering education, commercial and public sector projects.

He said: “It’s vital that the next generation are made aware of the variety of opportunities on offer in the construction industry, and it has been incredibly rewarding to return to my roots and offer these inspiring young people an insight into this diverse and fast-paced sector.

“It was also a personal highlight for me to engage with students starting their own journeys in the town in which I grew up.”

The career assembly at Furness College was attended by more than 50 full-time college students from Levels 1, 2 and 3 as well as first year apprentices.

They also saw presentations from Kyle Harvey, project manager for Wates Construction at the new Central Training Facility, while Dan Massey, trainee M&E quantity surveyor for the project, discussed his role and his future career aspirations.

Furness College construction lead, Graeme Shaw, said: “There is a real demand in this area for highly skilled construction workers and Phil’s story is a great example of the career opportunities available to our students.”