News on HS2 in Hillingdon

Our main works construction partner for the West Ruislip to London Euston section of Britain’s new high speed railway has launched two new careers-focused initiatives, helping people who have taken a career break back into employment .

In line with our drive to create employment opportunities for local people and those from disadvantaged and underrepresented groups, the Skanska Costain STRABAG Joint Venture is working in partnership with London-based organisations, Women Returners and STEM Returners , to actively engage the local community and support individuals who have taken a career break back into work.

The Women Returners initiative is aimed at experienced professionals from a variety of backgrounds who have taken a career break of two years or more. The programme will offer six months’ paid work placements to six candidates, with a high likelihood of ongoing employment on HS2. Participants will receive comprehensive support, including a Career Returners Coaching Programme.

In 2020, the joint venture recruited six high-calibre employees through the Women Returners programme, with a 100% conversion into permanent employment. It is hoped that this year’s initiative will encourage more people to join the sector and secure long-term employment. The programme particularly welcomes applications from female returners, supporting our aim to address the gender imbalance commonplace in the construction and rail sectors. However, recognising that career breaks for parental care or personal reasons are not exclusive to women, the joint venture also encourages male applicants.

The second recruitment initiative is an innovative STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) focused programme. Six places will be available on the 12-week programme, designed for individuals with a STEM-based career background such as engineering, or those who have worked in the STEM sector. Mentoring and coaching will be provided to ensure that those returning to work after a lengthy absence, are fully supported.

After the 12 weeks, successful candidates may be offered full-time positions. The STEM Returners scheme has already supported almost 200 candidates, with 96% offered full-time roles at the end of their placement. The joint venture expects to recruit over 4,000 jobs, including positions for around 550 previously unemployed people and 400 apprenticeships to deliver its works for HS2.

Find out more information about Women Returners , STEM Returners and careers at SCS Railways .

If you have a question about HS2 or our works, please contact our HS2 Helpdesk team on 08081 434 434 or email hs2enquiries@hs2.org.uk .