Two construction partners on the HS2 project have extended their support to a local community, by becoming lead sponsors of the Bucks Skills Show 2023.

Align and EKFB, who are responsible for the design and build of Britain’s new railway as it travels through the Chilterns, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire and Warwickshire are sponsoring the county’s biggest careers fair.

Their commitment has been matched by HS2 contractor, Flannery Plant Hire, who are also sponsors and exhibiting at the event.

Align and EKFB have already made a steadfast commitment to ensuring local people can access training and employment opportunities on HS2.

Now, their financial support for this year’s Buckinghamshire careers event, which takes place on March 8 to 9, will help to ensure hundreds of school pupils can participate in interactive careers sessions and discover the world of opportunities available to them. 

EKFB, Align and Flannery will also take the opportunity to promote all their latest job vacancies at an open-doors event, suitable for all ages, which takes place from 4pm to 8pm on Wednesday March 8.

Jhen-Nel Swanston, HS2’s skills manager for the region said it was delightful to see its construction partners stepping forward to support this important event for the local community.

“It’s a great opportunity for young people to learn about the careers and skillsets needed to build HS2, from ecologists and archaeologists to civil engineers and project managers,” he said.

“We hope to inspire the next generation and encourage even more local people to play their part in this transformational project, now and in the future.”

Both EKFB and Align will also be offering pupils the chance to join them this summer for a unique work experience placement, as well as hosting careers conversations to enable students to learn more about the stages involved in designing and building the railway.

Lilia Frunzo, skills, education and employment manager at Align joint venture, said the firm was delighted to support this important local event. 

“It allows us the opportunity to showcase all the fantastic opportunities available for young people on HS2, which is Europe’s largest infrastructure project,” she said.

Paddy Patterson, skills, education and employment manager at EKFB joint venture, said the firm was proud to be a key sponsor. 

“We’re looking forward to meeting attendees, answering questions about long-term career progression and inspiring our local communities to join us on this journey,” he said.

Both EKFB and Align are actively recruiting for local talent and encourage anyone searching for an apprenticeship, or a new career opportunity, to visit their exhibitions stands at the Bucks Skills Show’s evening event on 8 March.

Click here for the latest career opportunities on HS2.