Costain’s recent announcement about ramping up its early careers intake to over 180 positions by 2025 is a game changer for the infrastructure sector. With a robust pipeline of work on the horizon, the company is clearly doubling down on nurturing fresh talent, and it’s about time. The commitment to bring on board more than 60 graduates, 90 apprentices, and 30 interns reflects a strategic move that not only addresses immediate staffing needs but also positions Costain as a forward-thinking player in an industry that’s often criticized for being slow to adapt.
The backdrop for this ambitious recruitment drive is a series of significant projects, including long-term AMP8 framework awards with Northumbrian Water, United Utilities, and Southern Water. These contracts are not just about maintaining the status quo; they involve groundbreaking work like constructing a CO2 gathering network and designing a hydrogen system as part of the East Coast Cluster in Teesside. This not only highlights the urgency for skilled professionals but also underscores the industry’s shift toward sustainable practices, which is essential in today’s climate-conscious world.
Costain’s approach to professional development is equally impressive. By covering the full costs of professional charterships from respected industry bodies, the company is making it clear that it values lifelong learning. This “earn and learn” model for apprentices is a win-win, allowing young talent to build transferable skills while contributing to real-world projects. The flexibility in their graduate and apprenticeship programs, which range from two to six years, provides a unique opportunity for candidates to gain diverse experiences across various sectors.
Catherine Warbrick, chief people and sustainability officer at Costain, encapsulates the company’s ethos perfectly. “We’re incredibly proud of our graduates, apprentices and those who join Costain on a work placement. More than ever, we’re looking for fresh ideas and innovative thinkers to make a real impact for our customers.” This sentiment resonates deeply in an industry that often finds itself mired in tradition and resistant to change.
The continuation of the Nuclear Graduates programme further emphasizes Costain’s commitment to attracting top talent. The partnership with Energus not only strengthens the company’s workforce but also aligns with the urgent need for skilled professionals in the nuclear sector. Bob Anstey, sector director for defence and nuclear energy at Costain, rightly points out that “attracting top-class talent to our industry is a priority.” This collaboration is crucial for future-proofing the workforce, ensuring that the next generation of engineers and project managers is prepared to tackle the complexities of nuclear infrastructure.
With The Times recognizing Costain as a Top 50 Employer for Gender Equality in 2024 and ranking it among the UK’s Best Big Companies to Work For in 2023, the company is not just filling positions; it’s cultivating an inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives. This is vital for innovation, particularly in sectors like water and energy, where the challenges are multifaceted and require creative solutions.
As Costain gears up to welcome this new wave of talent, it’s clear that the implications of this recruitment drive extend beyond the company itself. It sets a precedent for the entire infrastructure sector, urging other companies to rethink their approach to talent acquisition and professional development. In an era where sustainability and technological innovation are paramount, the industry must embrace fresh ideas and diverse talent to remain relevant. Costain’s proactive stance could very well be the spark that ignites a broader transformation across the water and energy sectors, paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future.
