The future of concrete: Emerging Talent session at UKCS 2026

At this year’s UK Concrete Show, the Concrete Connect Seminar Theatre will host a special Emerging Talent session on Thursday 26 March, celebrating the next generation of professionals shaping the future of concrete.

 

Register now for your FREE visitor ticket!

 

Taking place during the afternoon session and hosted by Susannah Streeter, the 14:30 panel brings together Claire Ackerman (Chief Executive Officer, The Concrete Society), John Reddy (President, Institute of Concrete Technology), and Lauren Fairley (Executive Officer, Concrete Repair Association) to discuss how the sector can attract, develop, and retain new talent. These leading industry figures will explore how the sector is tackling the skills gap to meet the challenges of sustainability and digitalisation, and will review the training pathways and professional platforms that facilitate career progression.

Take part in the conversation, ask your questions, and gain insight into how skills development in concrete is evolving.

Left to right: Claire Ackerman, John Reddy and Lauren Fairley

 

Following the discussion, we’ll announce the five category winners of the Emerging Talent Awards 2026, recognising young leaders driving innovation, sustainability, and technical excellence across the industry.

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Recognise your rising talent for the 2026 Awards

 

If you know a young colleague making a real impact, now’s the time to recognise them. The Emerging Talent Awards, reimagined in partnership with The Concrete Society, provide greater visibility, deeper technical recognition, and a national platform for outstanding young professionals.

Open to those aged 30 and under, the awards shine a spotlight on individuals already making a real impact, bringing fresh thinking, ambition, and a collaborative spirit to the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

 

 

The expanded 2026 format features five focused categories, shaped by real-world industry experience:

• Design Excellence

• Materials Specialist

• Precast & Offsite

• Sustainability

• Production & Logistics

Nominating someone couldn’t be easier

Simply provide a few basic details, a headshot, and a short supporting statement (up to 250 words). The judges will assess each entry based on achievements, challenges overcome, commitment to development, and overall submission quality.

Each category winner will:

• Be presented with their award live at The UK Concrete Show (25–26 March 2026)

• Be featured on ConcreteConnect.co.uk

• Receive a £250 John Lewis voucher

• Receive a complimentary VIP ticket to the Concrete Society Awards

• Be eligible for the Emerging Talent of the Year, announced at the Concrete Society Awards 2026

 

Submit your nomination

 

Nominations close Friday 6 February 2026 – with no limit on entries per company.