There is certainly a skills gap developing in construction and related industries, with the younger generation eschewing 'dirty' industries in favour of social media stardom - probably. However, at least the Construction Plant-Hire Association (CPA) is trying to do something about it.

To which end, the CPA has just invested in a state-of-the-art plant simulator housed in a bespoke branded trailer.

The new, state-of-the-art unit has been purchased from Tenstar, and it allows plant operators of the future to get ‘hands on’ with a range of equipment - including dumpers, excavators, telehandlers and tower cranes using realistic controls and 3D motion.

The simulator itself is housed in a bespoke trailer manufactured by Ifor Williams Trailers, allowing it to be easily and safely transported around the country. It will be used at schools, colleges and careers events nationwide, to raise awareness about plant operating and encourage young people to consider construction plant as a future career path.

STOP PRESS - the simulator will also be a prominent feature on the CPA stand at the Executive Hire Show at Coventry Building Society Arena in February.

“Our industry offers jobs for life and it’s really important that we highlight these opportunities to young people before they leave school or college. Unless they have a family connection to the industry, many young people just aren’t aware of plant operating or other career paths the sector offers," said CPA CEO Steve Mulholland (left).

“One of the winners from the CPA Stars of the Future Awards 2025 entered the industry as a direct result of trying her hand on a plant simulator at a careers event at her school, so it just shows the huge potential they offer in attracting young people to our industry.”

Meanwhile, the Scottish Plant Owners Assocation (SPOA)  has also bought itself a Tenstar simulator - whatever works to recruit the next generation of operating talent!

Meet the CPA team and try out the simulator itself on Stand H3 at the Executive Hire Show - but you'll have to wait in line behind the EHS crew first...

https://cpa.uk.net/