A shortage of skilled tradesmen is emerging as a growing challenge for Jamaica’s construction sector, prompting firms such as Amazing Concrete Finishes (ACF) to launch apprenticeship programmes aimed at training a new generation of workers.

The programme, being developed as part of the wider operations of the Amazing Group of Companies, will provide hands-on training in construction, equipment operation and specialised concrete finishing.

ACF CEO and founder Yannick Sharpe said the programme is being driven by the urgent need to address a widening skills gap in the local building industry.

“There’s a big skill problem in Jamaica where we don’t have enough tradesmen, as most people only seem to be interested in scamming. Through our training institute we want to help with addressing that,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

Under the programme, ACF plans to train 25 participants per cohort, with sessions held quarterly. The initiative is expected to produce about 100 trainees annually.

Through structured learning modules and rigorous training schedules, Sharpe said participants will undergo intensive instruction designed to prepare them for employment in the construction sector.

Training will cover heavy equipment operation — including front-end loaders, backhoes and lifts — as well as equipment maintenance, mechanical skills, carpentry, masonry, and specialised decorative concrete finishing techniques.

“The goal is not only to provide technical skills but also to create sustainable employment opportunities,” Sharpe said. “By pushing out at least 25 skilled youth every quarter, the idea is to give them an income and the ability to take care of themselves and their families.”

ACF had previously launched a pilot programme in collaboration with start-up 360 Manufacturing, which trained three cohorts of 20 participants before limited funding pushed operations to a pause last year. The initiative was structured as a six-week programme during which trainees received technical instruction, targeted skills development, and daily meals.

The programme operated at significant costs running into the millions, which Sharpe said has so far been largely funded out of pocket. For the current staging he is, however, hoping to secure support from both private sector partners and government agencies.

The company is currently exploring partnerships that will help to scale the programme and ensure its long-term viability.

Drawing on international expertise, the revamped programme’s curriculum will also benefit from teachings and demonstrations offered by a decorative concrete specialist.

“The specialists previously serving as a creative director for major theme parks including Universal Studios and Six Flags is expected to visit Jamaica in April to assist with the first training session under the expanded programme,” Sharpe further said to the Business Observer.

The expert, who has worked on major projects across five continents and in more than 60 countries, will also help to train participants in advanced concrete design and finishing techniques. The collaboration is expected to introduce trainees to industry-standard methods while exposing them to specialised skills said to be in high demand globally.

Sharpe said the company hopes the initiative will help ease labour shortages affecting projects across Jamaica, particularly as construction activities continue to grow in areas such as housing, tourism and infrastructure.

By equipping young people with marketable trade skills, the programme aims to support both workforce development and the long-term sustainability of the construction sector.

“If we can train people and give them the skills to work, it will benefit the entire industry and also the country,” Sharpe said.

The training programme forms part of operational plans for the company’s new Ferry Pen head office it intends to have ready in short order. The approximately one-acre property is set to consolidate aspects of previous locations as it houses heavy equipment, a concrete plant, as well as ACF’s sales and staff offices.

SHARPE..there’s a big skill problem in Jamaica where we don’t have enough tradesmen, as most people only seem to be interested in scamming. Through our training institute we want to help with addressing that