Championing Local Construction with Build Torbay

At Datel Electrical, we have always believed that strong communities are built on strong local industries. The construction sector plays a major role in South Devon’s economy, supporting businesses, creating opportunities, and shaping the places we live and work. This is why we are proud to play an active part in Build Torbay, a partnership dedicated to strengthening the construction workforce and improving opportunities across the region.

Our own Chris sits on the Build Torbay Steering Group, representing Datel Electrical and the wider community of local subcontractors. His role ensures that the voice of small and medium-sized trades businesses is heard when decisions are made about training, recruitment, and the future of construction in our area.

What is Build Torbay?

Build Torbay is an initiative led by TDA (Torbay Development Agency) to develop a strong, skilled, and sustainable construction workforce. Their focus is on bringing together employers, education providers, councils and community organisations to:

• Support the growth of construction careers in Torbay

• Connect young people with local apprenticeship opportunities

• Help contractors and trades access training and development

• Raise the standards and visibility of local trades

• Strengthen collaboration across the industry

In a region where demand for skilled professionals is growing, Build Torbay is helping to ensure local people gain the skills and opportunities needed to succeed right here at home. You can find out more here.

Why Datel Electrical is Involved

As a long-standing electrical contractor in South Devon, we know first-hand the importance of investing in the future of the construction industry. Skilled tradespeople are the backbone of every project, whether it is a new home, a school refurbishment, a commercial upgrade, or a community installation.

Chris’s involvement in the steering group reflects our commitment to:

• Supporting local apprenticeships and creating opportunities for young people

• Championing the needs of subcontractors, who make up a large part of Devon’s construction workforce

• Improving training pathways for electricians and other trades

• Strengthening communication between construction businesses, councils, and colleges

• Building a safer, better-skilled workforce for the region

Building a Stronger Future Together

The work being done through Build Torbay does not just benefit businesses, it creates long-term opportunities for young people, strengthens the local economy, and supports the community as a whole.

At Datel Electrical, this work aligns with everything we stand for:

• developing new talent

• supporting local enterprise

• delivering quality work

• investing in South Devon’s future

We are incredibly proud to be part of the steering group and will continue playing our role in shaping a stronger, more resilient construction sector for Torbay and the wider region.

If you would like to learn more about Build Torbay or how we support apprenticeships and local development, feel free to get in touch, we are always happy to share our experience.