Our long-serving director says the company’s commitment to developing young talent plays a vital role in supporting their growth ambitions.
Dean Averies joined the Beard as a 16-year-old trainee in 1988, after writing without success to some 50 other firms seeking an apprenticeship opportunity.
Since then, he has progressed from school leaver to estimator, surveyor, contracts manager, construction director and leader of Beard’s 110-strong Oxford-based team.
Dean’s 22-year-old son Corey is following in his father’s footsteps as a carpenter having joined Beard as an apprentice six years ago.
Beard confirmed its continued commitment for supporting young talent during National Apprenticeship Week which kicked off on 10 February.
Dean Averies, Oxford Director
At a time when the construction sector faces a critical skills shortage, with estimates predicting that the industry needs more than 250,000 extra workers by 2028, Beard continues to offer young people opportunities to build lasting careers.
The business currently supports 10 employees on degree apprenticeships and a further four in apprenticeship roles.
Melissa Barber, Head of People and Communications
Beard is one of the few contractors that directly employs apprentices from age 16, providing a vital entry route into the industry at a time when many firms require prior qualifications or higher education.
The firm also actively engages schools and colleges to improve careers advice and showcase the range of roles available in construction.
Dean added: “Beard took a chance on me as a teenager. Now, in my role as director, I see it as my responsibility to do the same for the next generation. It is also an important part of helping a business like ours to continue to grow.
“Those joining us today are the next generation of industry leaders. We need to do everything possible to attract, develop and retain them.”
