Andrew Carpenter’s InstallerShow thoughts

Andrew Carpenter, Chief Executive of Constructing Excellence Midlands, discusses his attendance at this year’s InstallerShow, including being part of the “How to Get Into the Construction Sector” panel discussion.

At the 2025 InstallerShow, my involvement focused on championing a collaborative culture within the construction industry, with a strong emphasis on integrated supply chains, lean processes, and a future-ready workforce. As the sector faces both significant opportunities and ongoing challenges, the event was a timely platform to highlight the role of collective effort and innovation in meeting the government’s ambitious target of delivering 1.5 million homes during this parliamentary term.

A key message I brought to the show was the pressing need to attract more people into the construction industry. With an ageing workforce and a growing demand for housing and infrastructure, we must look beyond traditional recruitment routes. Apprenticeships emerged as a central theme—not only as a solution to the skills gap, but as a vital mechanism for upskilling the next generation. Apprenticeships provide meaningful, structured pathways into the sector, offering real-world experience and technical knowledge while fostering loyalty, productivity, and adaptability within organisations.

Integration and open communication

Throughout the show, I engaged with stakeholders across the supply chain—from manufacturers and contractors to educators and policymakers—to discuss how integration and open communication can improve outcomes. We explored how lean construction principles can eliminate waste, improve safety, and reduce costs. These methods, when combined with digital tools and early-stage collaboration, can accelerate project delivery, which is crucial if we are to meet the government’s housing targets.

The government’s push to build 1.5 million homes is not just a numerical goal—it represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine how we design, build, and deliver homes. But this ambition can only be realised through cohesive, aligned efforts across all parts of the supply chain. The Installer Show provided a valuable forum to share ideas, celebrate best practices, and identify areas where further integration and cooperation are needed.

Importantly, I used my platform at the show to stress that cultural change is just as essential as technical improvement. By fostering a spirit of shared responsibility and mutual respect across all tiers of the industry, we can not only meet housing targets but also build better, more resilient businesses.

In summary, the 2025 InstallerShow reaffirmed the importance of working together — across disciplines, generations, and organisations — to ensure the construction industry is ready to meet the future head-on.

Constructing Excellence Midlands – Providing an Industry of Opportunity