How do we Turn Welsh Projects into Welsh Jobs?

How do we Turn Welsh Projects into Welsh Jobs?

New Welsh infrastructure projects offer a massive opportunity for young people in Wales – provided they are given the right skills, says Sir Derek Jones.

Sir Derek, the former Permanent Secretary of the Welsh Government, wants major new projects to be seen as a way to help disadvantaged young people get into high-value work.

He was speaking ahead of the ‘Growing Wales Together’ panel discussion on harnessing the potential of the next generation – at The Principality Stadium in Cardiff on June 14.

Sir Derek will be hosting the event as the new Chair of the Council to youth charity, The Prince’s Trust Cymru.

He said:

“We’re at the stage now where landmark projects are being approved, or at the point of approval. “We can think of Rail Electrification and the Metro systems in both North and South Wales, the M4 relief road and the Wylfa Newydd nuclear power station to name a few – and there are many other capital projects and inward investments in the Welsh pipeline. “They all represent a huge opportunity for young people in Wales to become part of the next generation of skilled workers. “At the same time, we know there are thousands of disadvantaged young people who are not currently in employment, education, or training. We need to collaborate to get them inspired and work-ready. “The work is going to be done. The question is – who’s going to do it? Social justice and economic efficiency can go hand-in-hand.”

The panel discussion will ask how Welsh institutions can work together to enable these young people to play a real role in growing Wales.

Sitting alongside Sir Derek on the panel will be:

Ali Abdi – Cardiff University

Alwen Williams – BT Cymru

Ian Price – CBI Wales

Julie James and Dr Rachel Garside-Jones – Welsh Government

Phil Jones – The Prince’s Trust Cymru

Sharon Lusher – Pembrokeshire College and ColegauCymru

The free event runs from 8.30am-11am and includes breakfast and networking opportunities.

Uptake has been strong, but some spaces are still available. Anyone who wants to attend can contact [email protected]