• Over half of tradespeople were introduced to a career in the trades by a parent
• 85% say family-owned trade businesses are important for the industry
• 68% say a family member encouraged them to pursue a trade
• 32% say they learned their trade through a family business
• 41% entered via a formal apprenticeship
• 88% saying they are happy with their career choice and an overwhelming 92% say they would recommend pursuing a trade to a family member

Over half of tradespeople (52%) were introduced to a career in the trades by a parent and a further third (36%) by another family member*. That’s according to new research by Chadwicks Group, Ireland’s leading builders’ merchant.

The research, conducted among 150 tradespeople, examines the critical role families play in encouraging careers in the construction industry.

As Ireland struggles with construction skills shortages, the research reveals that 85% of tradespeople say family-owned trade businesses are important for the industry, with many acting as informal training grounds for the next generation. 41% entered the industry via a formal apprenticeship, while 32% say they learned their trade through a family business, often combining hands-on experience with mentorship from a parent or relative.

When it comes to who is encouraging young people into the trades, again it’s a family affair with 68% saying a family member encouraged them to pursue a trade. A fifth (20%) say a friend encouraged them but only 11% say a teacher encouraged them, suggesting formal education may still undervalue vocational careers despite their strong employment prospects.

Demonstrating its commitment to fostering growth in the sector, as part of an ongoing partnership with Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin), Chadwicks Group has invested €250,000 into Ireland’s first Design + Construct Centre. Chadwicks Group also has a Scholarship Programme with TU Dublin, as well as sponsoring the Apprenticeship Excellence Awards in The School of Architecture, Building and the Environment.

Chadwicks Group is also supplying materials for a new Transition Year module, delivered by Dublin and Dún Laoghaire Education and Training Board. It teaches trade skills in three Dublin secondary schools, giving students hands-on experience and an insight into what a career in construction entails.

Job satisfaction in the trades is high with 88% saying they are happy with their career choice and an overwhelming 92% saying they would recommend pursuing a trade to a family member. When asked to describe what working in a trade in 2026 is like, over half (52%) say it’s a highly skilled job, 29% say their skills are highly sought after and 23% say it’s a physically demanding job.

Commenting on the findings, Patrick Atkinson, CEO, Chadwicks Group said:

“Our research clearly shows that in Ireland the trades are more than just a career choice, they are often a family tradition. Parents, relatives and family-run businesses continue to play a vital role in introducing young people to the construction industry and passing on skills, knowledge and pride in the work.

However, the findings also highlight the need for greater emphasis on the trades within secondary education. Too often, vocational careers are overlooked in favour of academic pathways, despite offering highly skilled, secure and rewarding employment. At a time when Ireland is facing significant skills shortages, it’s vital that young people are given earlier exposure to the full range of career options available to them.

At Chadwicks Group, we’re committed to supporting that pipeline of future talent, whether through our scholarship programme with TU Dublin or by backing hands-on initiatives at second level that give students real insight into what a career in construction involves.”