The YouthBuild UK Young Builder of the Year Awards 2026 are open for nominations until 10 August.
YouthBuild UK is inviting nominations from employers, training providers and colleges, youth organisations, housing associations, apprenticeship providers, community organisations, and others supporting young people into construction and related industries.
The FMB is supporting the awards, which shine a national spotlight on apprentices, trainees and early-career professionals who are making an exceptional contribution to construction. Category winners receive cash prizes and will be celebrated at the House of Commons on 18 October 2026.
Previous finalists have overcome extraordinary odds to build careers in the industry, from experiences of homelessness and arriving in the UK as refugees, to learning English from scratch, balancing caring responsibilities with training and battling back from serious illness. Others have been recognised for championing women in construction, mentoring fellow apprentices, and demonstrating outstanding technical skill.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB and Trustee of YouthBuild UK, said: “Construction is facing an acute skills shortage, yet every year these awards prove there is remarkable young talent out there ready to build Britain’s future. The stories behind these nominations – of young people who have overcome homelessness, illness and huge personal adversity to forge successful careers – are genuinely inspiring.
“If you employ, train or work alongside a young person who goes above and beyond, take five minutes to nominate them. National recognition at the House of Commons could be the springboard that transforms their career and the industry needs role models like them more than ever.”
Christopher Selby, General Manager of YouthBuild UK, said: “The Young Builder of the Year Awards are the highlight of our year. Every single nomination tells a story of talent, grit and determination – young people who have overcome real hurdles to build careers the industry can be proud of. With construction crying out for skilled workers, there has never been a better moment to shine a light on the next generation. If you know a young person who deserves recognition, please put them forward before 10 August.”
Founded in 2002, YouthBuild UK has spent more than two decades championing disadvantaged young people, including those affected by homelessness, difficult family circumstances or contact with the criminal justice system – by connecting them with construction employers and helping them learn a trade.The charity works with employers and organisations across the industry to share best practice and celebrate young people’s success, with the Young Builder of the Year Awards its flagship annual event.
Nominations close on 10 August 2026 and can be submitted at: www.ybuk.org/nominations
