Two budding construction workers have taken the first steps in their careers by securing work placements.

Rhun Pleming and Ben Saunders are working with OBR on two of the Tŷ Gwynedd housing developments at Dôl Afon Goch in Llanberis and Coed Mawr, Bangor.

The 16-week placements were made possible by Academi Adra, which was launched in 2021 to offer opportunities for young people to develop their skills and experience in the sector.

Ben said: "I first heard about the course through my work mentor in Gwaith Gwynedd, she told me about the course and how it could help me develop skills that I showed an interest in."

"In my week of work experience with OBR they helped me see what different careers are available within the construction industry, such as joinery and plumbing, and allowed me to gain firsthand experience on how a building site operated as well as how the different trades work with one another."

"This paid work placement will allow me to develop my skills further and see what else is available, while providing me with a wage to support myself as I work towards trying to get a full-time career within the industry."

"Being on the course has opened my eyes to the possibility of returning to education to further cement my prospects of receiving lifelong skills to develop my future."

Both Rhun and Ben are working on two of the Tŷ Gwynedd schemes, which aims to deliver 90 new homes by 2029 as part of Cyngor Gwynedd's housing action plan.

Four are currently being developed in Bangor, Llanberis, Morfa Nefyn and Llanystumdwy with more to come.

Cllr Paul Rowlinson, cabinet member for housing, said: "I'm very pleased that the Tŷ Gwynedd housing developments by Cyngor Gwynedd in Llanberis and Bangor can play a part in such a positive project."

"Initiatives like this help bridge the gap between education and employment, and we are grateful to Academi Adra, Gwaith Gwynedd, and OBR Construction for helping create these opportunities."

"Not only will Tŷ Gwynedd's developments provide much needed affordable housing for local people, but they also create opportunities for young people to gain practical experience and take the first steps towards successful careers in the construction sector."

An Academi Adra spokesperson added: "We are extremely proud of what Ben and Rhun have achieved during their time with us at Academi Adra. Both have made an excellent impression with the team at the OBR sites and fully deserve this opportunity to prove themselves in the industry."

"Academi Adra is very proud to be able to create opportunities like this for local young people, and we look forward to seeing both learning new skills and progressing to the next stage in their careers within the construction sector."

A spokesperson for OBR Construction said: "It is a pleasure for us as a local company to provide opportunities and experiences to young people by showcasing the variety of work that exists within the construction sector."

"It is a great opportunity for them to experience how projects are carried out and develop practical skills. We appreciate the dedication and enthusiasm of Ben and Rhun in the workplace."

"I hope the experience will be a stepping stone for them into the world of construction. Thanks to Academi Adra and Cyngor Gwynedd for being part of this important project."