Taking place from 25–27 November, the festival will culminate in the grand opening of Chesterfield College’s new Building Services and Engineering Centre — an exciting milestone for construction and engineering education in the region.

Across the three days, students will have the opportunity to get closer to industry through:

🔹 Employer-led competitions
🔹 Practical demonstrations
🔹 Industry insight talks
🔹 Careers-focused discussions
🔹 Opportunities to meet professionals across the construction sector

Employers from across electrical installation, plumbing, brickwork and groundworks, carpentry and joinery, painting and decorating, and professional construction services are invited to get involved, showcasing the breadth of careers and opportunities available across the built environment.
Thanks to the East Midlands Construction Technical Excellence College (CTEC) and Teacher Industry Exchange (TIE) programme by EMCCA we can now also offer funding for construction and building services businesses willing to participate.

Find out more:
Funding now available for construction and building services businesses to join our STEM festival this November – Chesterfield College

We’re proud to be sponsoring the Emerging Business (under 5 years old) category at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2026!

Hosted by East Midlands Business Link, the awards celebrate the people, businesses and projects shaping the future of the property and construction industry across the region.

As the East Midlands Construction Technical Excellence College (CTEC), we’re passionate about supporting the next generation of talent and working closely with employers across the construction and built environment sector.

It’s fantastic to be part of an event that brings together the businesses, professionals and innovators driving the industry forward, and we’re looking forward to celebrating some of the region’s most exciting emerging businesses.

• Monday 19 October 2026
• 4:00pm – 7:00pm
• STEAMhouse, Birmingham
• Free to attend

This year’s event focuses on careers in construction and the many different routes into the industry. Attendees will hear from a panel of professionals representing a range of roles, sectors and career pathways, who will share their experiences, career journeys and advice for those looking to enter the profession.

Following the panel discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to network with industry representatives, explore different career options and make valuable connections with professionals from across the sector. Confirmed organisations include Kier, Quantem, Colemans, STRABAG, AtkinsRéalis, Sisk, Cundall, Fitzgerald Contractors, Derry Building Services, Retrofit Academy, SDC, Winvic, Tilbury Douglas and Spacion with additional organisations to be announced.

The event provides an excellent opportunity for students and aspiring construction professionals to gain practical industry insight, expand their networks and learn more about potential career pathways within the built environment.

Please note that attendance is restricted to over 18’s only.

Get your ticket here: Constructing Careers: Paths into the Industry | CIOB