The Department of Trade and Industry says apprenticeships in trades are being fought over by candidates eager to take up construction careers.

This year, the DTI had 250 applicants for courses in plumbing, brickwork, joinery, painting and decorating and electrical installation.

But only 58 people eventually achieved their aim of an apprenticeship and will start a college course in September.

Jason Roberts reports:

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The department says eighty of the applicants were invited to three week practical assessment course after a series of aptitude tests.

And of those, another twenty or so were weeded out during the assessment process.

But it’s not all doom and gloom for those who didn’t make it: the DTI says a variety of advice and alternative options were offered to unsuccessful applicants.

Trade and Industry Minister Alex Downie (pictured) says he’s pleased with the high demand as training people to a professional standard is vital to improving the Island’s infrastructure.