HOCHTIEF PPP Solutions and New College Lanarkshire (NCL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, creating a forward-thinking academy partnership to cultivate future-ready infrastructure workforce in the local area.
The academy is designed to deliver impactful learning opportunities, address critical workforce needs, and generate significant social and economic value within the North Lanarkshire community.
By aligning industry requirements directly with educational provision, the collaboration will establish a centre for excellence in technical education across New College Lanarkshire campuses, HOCHTIEF’s local facilities and live sites.
The initiative aims to build a sustainable talent pipeline and support long-term growth for HOCHTIEF's operations during its eight-year road infrastructure maintenance contract with the council, which was awarded in 2024.
As part of the MOU, the New College Lanarkshire will offer a diverse portfolio of education and training programmes, including the introduction of a new Multi-skilled Roadworker qualification, road operatives training, apprenticeships, and accredited upskilling opportunities for existing tradespeople.
The partnership will invest in high-quality, tailored learning solutions that enhance skills, boost productivity and encourage business resilience, including digital learning platforms such as The Learning Well.
Both parties will engage with new and existing employees to create sponsored learning opportunities, strengthening talent pipelines and supporting defined career progression pathways for people who complete these new qualifications.
HOCHTIEF and the college will also align their charitable foundations to co-create initiatives that expand access to education and maximise community impact in the local area.
Jannis Nasoulis, Contract Manager at HOCHTIEF PPP Solutions, said: “This announcement arrives as we are well underway in delivering our eight-year contract with North Lanarkshire Council, to improve the region’s road infrastructure. By forging a strategic partnership with New College Lanarkshire, we are establishing a joint commitment to drive local investment through targeted skills development and creating new routes to well-paid, skilled jobs in the local area.
“We aim to welcome as many people as possible to the academy and bring them on the journey to becoming a future-ready roads maintenance professional – a valuable and lasting career with countless avenues for progression.”
Professor Christopher Moore, New College Lanarkshire’s Principal and Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to have come to this agreement with HOCHTIEF, a global leader in creating sustainable infrastructure. The valuable focus of their work in North Lanarkshire means we can work together on giving people the skills needed to build Lanarkshire’s future. We know that when education and industry build effective partnerships people and communities can thrive.”
Councillor Helen Loughran, Convener of the council's Environment and Climate Change Committee, said: “The new training academy will deliver education and training that meets the needs of the roads industry and gives local people the skills for a career in this important sector.
“It will include a wide range of courses, including a new Multi-skilled Roadworker qualification, Modern Apprenticeships, online and digital learning programmes and undergraduate degrees.
“This is an innovative and forward-thinking initiative, developed through the council’s contract with HOCHTIEF to maintain and improve our roads and infrastructure network.”
The NCL HOCHTIEF Academy is expected to open for applications in Q2 2026, with further details to be announced imminently.