While the construction and civil engineering industry comes together to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we at PAS NW Ltd know that investing in young people isn’t just a one-week focus—it’s a year-round commitment.

You’ll have seen us talking about our apprentices often, and for good reason. We believe in developing the next generation of skilled workers, and we’re actively working with an organisation that will be transformative for our apprentices’ futures.

There's a skills shortage across the board in construction and we know more groundworkers are needed than ever before if housing targets (1.5m new homes) are to be met in the next four and a half year's time.

We at PAS are doing our bit.

So to wrap up Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with two of our talented apprentices—Aaron Pinnington (17) and Cory Owens (18)—who are both learning their trade on PAS sites.

Aaron Pinnington – Darlington Street, Coppull.

Aaron is part of the team delivering Infrastructure, Roads and Sewers, Section 278 Works, and Groundworks for Miller Homes on our Darlington Street site. Speaking about his experience so far, he said:

"Getting hands-on experience in civil engineering is something I’ve really enjoyed. Every day brings something different, and I’m learning so much from the experienced guys around me. PAS has given me a great opportunity, and I’m making the most of it."

Cory Owens – Doctors Lane, Eccleston

Just down the road at Doctors Lane, Cory is playing a key role in the Infrastructure, Roads and Sewers, Section 278 Works, and Groundworks for Redrow. Reflecting on his journey with PAS, he said:

"Before this, I was labouring for a brickie, but when PAS offered me the chance to learn and become an apprentice, I jumped at it. It’s hard graft, but I like that—and I really appreciate the time my colleagues take to show me the ropes.

"I’ve been here for about eight months and already I've been involved in digging footings, pouring concrete, and next up is drainage. The experience I’m getting here is invaluable."

Paul Firth, Project Manager at PAS, added:

"At PAS, we don’t just talk about apprenticeships—we take action. We bring young talent onto our sites and give them the real-world experience they need to build lasting careers. Aaron and Cory are proving that with the right attitude and work ethic, you can go far in this industry. We’re proud to have them as part of the team, and we look forward to seeing them grow."

As Apprenticeship Week 2025 comes to a close, PAS remains committed to developing the future workforce—giving young people the skills, experience, and opportunities they need to thrive in the civil engineering industry.

About PAS NW Ltd.

PAS NW Ltd is a leading civil engineering company based in the North West of

England, renowned for delivering high-quality engineering solutions to some of the UK’s largest house builders.

Founded by Paul Sumner in 2009, PAS NW operates across more than a dozen sites in the region, providing services that span the full lifecycle of civil engineering projects, from pre-development planning to project execution.

With a strong commitment to Health & Safety, quality, and on-time delivery, PAS NW has established itself as a trusted partner in the construction industry.

The company's strategic growth is driven by a leadership team with extensive experience in housebuilding and civil engineering, positioning PAS NW as a key player in the industry.