The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is calling employers, trainers and the construction industry to nominate outstanding young talent for the Youthbuild UK Young Builder of the Year Awards 2026.
The awards, run by Youthbuild UK, shine a national spotlight on apprentices, trainees and early-career professionals making an exceptional contribution to construction. Category winners receive cash prizes and will be celebrated at a ceremony at the House of Commons on 28 October 2026.
Previous finalists have overcome extraordinary odds to build careers in the industry. Individuals have gone through experiences of homelessness and arriving in the UK as refugees, to learning English from scratch, balancing caring responsibilities with training and battling back from serious illness. Others have been recognised for championing women in construction, mentoring fellow apprentices, and demonstrating outstanding technical skill.
Industry urged to put forward outstanding young talent
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB and Trustee of Youthbuild UK, said, “Construction is facing an acute skills shortage. However, every year these awards prove there is remarkable young talent out there ready to build Britain’s future. The stories behind these nominations, of young people who have overcome homelessness, illness and huge personal adversity to forge successful careers, are genuinely inspiring.
“If you employ, train or work alongside a young person who goes above and beyond, take five minutes to nominate them. National recognition at the House of Commons could be the springboard that transforms their career. The industry needs role models like them more than ever.”
Christopher Selby, General Manager of Youthbuild UK, said, “The Young Builder of the Year Awards are the highlight of our year. Every single nomination tells a story of talent, grit and determination. It’s about supporting young people who have overcome real hurdles to build careers the industry can be proud of. With construction crying out for skilled workers, there has never been a better moment to shine a light on the next generation. If you know a young person who deserves recognition, please put them forward before 10 August.”
Changing lives through skills and opportunity
Sir John Hayes CBE MP, Honorary President of Youthbuild UK, added, “I’ve met a lot of young people at our annual awards ceremony, where people tell their story. When they receive a Youthbuild award they recount the journey they’ve travelled. They reflect on where they started and the hurdles they overcame to get to the point of being nominated. Not just the ultimate winners but everyone nominated has a story to tell, and those stories touch your heart.
“Learning a craft, connecting with a business, forming professional relationships, all of that is life-changing. Changing lives by changing life chances: that’s what these awards are about. It’s what the construction industry and the Federation of Master Builders can do.”
Founded in 2002, Youthbuild UK has spent more than two decades championing disadvantaged young people. This includes those affected by homelessness, difficult family circumstances or contact with the criminal justice system. Youthbuild UK helps these young people by connecting them with construction employers and helping them learn a trade.
The charity works with employers and organisations across the industry to share best practice and celebrate young people’s success. The Young Builder of the Year Awards is its flagship annual event.
