FIS has been featured in a recent Financial Times opinion article examining how artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping career choices and what this means for interest in skilled trades within the construction sector.
The article reflects on growing concern about the vulnerability of some white‑collar roles to AI, and the resulting attention being given to hands‑on occupations that are less exposed to automation. In that context, it explores routes into trades such as plumbing, plastering and drylining, while recognising the skill, professionalism and long‑term commitment required to succeed in construction.
FIS was referenced to provide insight into how workforce patterns are already changing. Commenting in the article, Iain McIlwee, Chief Executive of FIS, noted that there are already positive signs that more young people are choosing construction and trade pathways, with the proportion of carded site workers under the age of 30 increasing from 17 per cent to 25 per cent since 2021. This reflects both the appeal of earning while learning and a growing awareness of the risks associated with student debt and uncertain graduate employment in an AI‑disrupted labour market.
The article also includes contributions from Jade Sandhu, Group People Director at Measom Drywall Systems and Chair of the FIS Skills Board. Her comments highlight that skilled trades can offer strong earning potential, security and autonomy, particularly where individuals develop competence, run well‑managed businesses and price work appropriately. The article also reflects her view that these opportunities are still not well understood or clearly communicated within schools and colleges.
Importantly, the FT coverage avoids presenting construction as a simple alternative to office‑based careers affected by AI. It acknowledges the physical demands of site work, the costs of tools and vehicles, the prevalence of self‑employment and the sector’s sensitivity to economic cycles, all of which underline the need to approach construction careers with realism and respect for the skills involved.
From an FIS perspective, the article aligns with a long‑standing position: as AI reshapes the wider economy, skilled trades offer resilient and rewarding careers, but only when the skills required are properly valued, supported and invested in. Encouraging entry into construction must go hand‑in‑hand with quality training, fair payment, sustainable workloads and clear progression routes.
The Financial Times piece provides a thoughtful contribution to the discussion on AI, employment and skills—and reinforces the importance of seeing construction not as a default alternative, but as a professional career choice that underpins the built environment and the wider economy.
Find out more about the work of the FIS Skills Board here.
You can read the full article in the Financial Times here (subscriptions apply).