Conflict as a contributory factor in built environment apprenticeship completion in The Republic of Ireland

The adversarial, conflict-stricken environment in which the construction sector operates, has long been noted by practitioners and academics alike. This high-tension environment is often noted as an inhibitor in the recruitment and/or retention of labour. Apprenticeships are an essential source of labour for the Irish construction industry; there are 66 apprenticeships available, 8 of which are directly involved in the built environment. These include apprentices in carpentry, plumbing, and electrical. As part of a wider research plan into apprenticeship completion rates, the relationship between organisational conflict and apprenticeship completion is investigated. 75 questionnaires are completed at Phase 6 of training within an education centre. Participants are allowed to detail their experience with organisational conflict and the influence in which it has on their apprenticeship. The findings indicate that 64% have experienced organisational conflict within their profession, with 20% admitting it caused them to question their career choice. These findings will allow for increased ability to manage and mitigate the influence of organisational conflict on apprenticeships, with the goal of increasing completion rates, which are currently at 70%.