Integrating workforce development into major infrastructure delivery can extend the economic benefits of construction beyond the project site. Jacobs was recognized by the Management Consultancies Association (MCA) for its employment, education and skills strategy developed for Tideway, the major U.K. infrastructure program focused on improving the River Thames.
The strategy incorporated social value objectives into program controls, performance measurement and supply chain delivery. This approach connected employment and training opportunities with the needs of communities affected by infrastructure investment.
The results included 1,273 people entering employment, 162 apprenticeships and STEM engagement involving more than 80,000 young people. The initiative also contributed to more than £23 million in additional social value.
The program established the Thames Skills Academy to support workforce development and strengthen skills in the river transport sector. Its broader approach linked training and employment pathways with the labour requirements associated with major infrastructure work.
The model has also informed employment, education and skills initiatives on other large infrastructure programs, demonstrating how workforce planning can be incorporated into project delivery rather than managed as a separate social responsibility activity.
For construction owners and contractors, the approach highlights the role of supply chain coordination and measurable workforce outcomes in delivering infrastructure projects with broader community benefits.
The MCA awards also recognized Kayode Akinrinlola, a principal consultant at Jacobs and global vice-chair of the company’s Harambee employee network, which represents Black talent. Akinrinlola received a Highly Commended distinction in the Inclusion category.
His work has included mentoring, career development initiatives and virtual discussions designed to encourage open conversations among employees. During his leadership, Harambee membership increased by approximately 5%. Company culture survey results also recorded improvements in employees’ reported inclusion, engagement and strategic alignment.
The recognition highlights two areas relevant to major infrastructure delivery: workforce development and workplace inclusion. Tideway’s reported employment, apprenticeship and STEM participation figures provide measurable indicators of how social value objectives can be incorporated into a construction program.
For public-sector clients, developers and contractors, integrating these objectives into performance measures and supply chain processes offers a structured way to assess community benefits alongside infrastructure delivery.
Source: Jacobs.
