The SkillBuild National Final, delivered by CITB, will take place in Milton Keynes from 18-19 November 2026, bringing together some of the most talented apprentices and trainees from across the UK. Having progressed through this year’s regional qualifiers, finalists will compete over two days in their chosen trades, putting their skills to the test in a bid to be crowned national champion.
As the UK’s largest and longest-running construction skills competition, SkillBuild has become a flagship event for showcasing the industry’s emerging talent. Competitors will be challenged to complete a project within 18 hours, with expert judges assessing technical ability, problem solving, time management, health and safety compliance, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Alongside the competition, visitors will have the opportunity to experience CITB’s interactive Construction Showcase. Open from 9am to 3pm on both days, the careers hub will allow people of all ages to try hands-on construction activities, meet industry experts and explore the many routes into a construction career.
This year’s final will also feature a SEND Learner Showcase, celebrating diversity and inclusivity within the industry. The non-competitive exhibition will provide learners with special educational needs and disabilities the opportunity to demonstrate their skills across a range of trades.
The importance of attracting new talent into the industry has been highlighted by CITB’s latest Construction Workforce Outlook report, which forecasts that the UK construction sector will require an average of 41,200 additional workers each year until 2030 to meet expected demand.
Robert Smith, Product Manager (Careers) at CITB, said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming this year’s finalists to Milton Keynes. Reaching the finals is a fantastic achievement and reflects all the hard work and dedication each competitor has shown throughout the competition stages.
“SkillBuild gives talented apprentices and trainees the opportunity to put their skills to the test, demonstrate what they can achieve and showcase the high standard of talent that is coming into the construction workforce.
“With the industry needing to attract and develop its future workforce, events like SkillBuild are an important opportunity to celebrate construction careers and inspire more people to see the range of opportunities the sector has to offer. I wish all our finalists the very best of luck.”
The full list of finalists is available on the SkillBuild National Final website. Attendance at the event is free, with tickets available online.
CITB has also thanked the sponsors, supporters and strategic partners helping to deliver this year’s competition, including BAL Adhesives, Band of Builders, Brick Development Association, British Gypsum, Careers Wales, Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales, CITB NI, Crown Paints, FIS, Institute of Carpenters, N&C Nicobond, NFRC, NSITG, Saint-Gobain, Schluter Systems, SPAX, Tarmac, The Tile Association, Weber, Wienerberger, The Worshipful Company of Masons, and The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers, alongside Regatta Professional.