The built environment needs more than online classrooms, it needs hands-on experience.

Build Forward started from a shared frustration. We kept meeting talented, motivated students in architecture, engineering, retrofit and construction trades who were learning all the theory, but had never set foot on a real site and were disconnected from the industry.

At the same time, we knew the UK faces an urgent challenge: we must grow a skilled, diverse workforce to deliver retrofit and sustainable construction at scale.

Build Forward was created to connect education with real-world industry experience for all green skills focused students.

Led by U-Build, Her Retrofit Space, ACAN, BRING, and Studio Bark, we’re working with students at every stage, from school leavers to career changers, to open doors and create pathways into the green skills sector.

So far we’ve:

  • Placed students at Futurebuild 2025
  • Hosted the Build Tomorrow: Youth Summit
  • Delivered hands-on workshops at the V&A and Futurebuild with ACAN
  • Provided ongoing mentoring and inclusive partnerships

But the gap is still huge. Research from Closing the Retrofit Skills Gap (Gatsby, Ashden, National Retrofit Hub) shows:

  • Employer engagement is too low
  • Too few placements and apprenticeships
  • A shortage of tutors with up-to-date industry expertise

Watch our campaign video below to find out more:

We Need You

If you work in the built environment, you can join the initiative and make a difference.
Here’s how you can take action and make a real impact:

1. Sign the Build Forward Pledge → Commit to future action.
Your name and company will join our growing list of supporters driving tangible change.

2. Open doors for students → Offer placements, mentoring, site visits, or collaborative projects.
Give students the hands-on experience they need to succeed in green skills careers.

3. Share your expertise → Teach part-time or offer educational support.
Help equip the next generation of professionals with the latest industry knowledge.

4. Celebrate what works → Tell us about your own initiatives.
We’ll amplify your efforts and inspire others to follow your lead.

5. Build local connections → Partner with your college or university.
Create meaningful pathways for students into your business and sector.

Sign the pledge, be the change!