For the Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS), the event was about far more than having a presence in the showground pavilion. It was an opportunity to meet the people who use the scheme every day, listen to their experiences and discuss the future of competence across the construction plant sector.

Representing CPCS throughout the event were Andrew Rankin, Adam Cobban, Myles Cosgrove, Charlie Skinn and Dave Lamb, who spent three busy days welcoming visitors to the stand and speaking with test centres, testers, employers and CPCS card holders from across the UK.
Conversations throughout the exhibition reflected the industry's continued focus on competence, workforce development and maintaining high standards. Visitors were keen to hear about the latest developments across CPCS, discuss changes within the scheme and share their own experiences from site. These face-to-face discussions remain invaluable, helping ensure CPCS continues to evolve alongside the needs of the sector while maintaining the confidence of employers and plant operators alike.

The stand attracted a steady stream of visitors throughout the event, with many taking the opportunity to ask questions about card categories, renewals, progression routes and the wider role CPCS plays in supporting safe, competent plant operations. 

One of the highlights for many visitors was a special appearance from DiggerFinn, whose visit proved popular with attendees and created a fun talking point throughout the exhibition. 

The atmosphere on the stand was further enhanced by a range of activities designed to encourage conversation and friendly competition. Visitors could collect CPCS bucket hats, which proved particularly useful as temperatures soared throughout the three-day event. With clear blue skies and exceptionally warm weather, many described Hillhead 2026 as one of the hottest editions of the exhibition they could remember.

The warm conditions certainly did little to slow the crowds. Across the exhibition, visitors explored hundreds of exhibitors, watched live equipment demonstrations and took advantage of the unique opportunity to see machinery operating within a working quarry environment. The combination of live demonstrations and direct access to manufacturers continues to make Hillhead one of the UK's most distinctive industry events.

Adding to the sense of fun, the CPCS stand also hosted its own YardBall football challenge, inspired by the FIFA World Cup. The game encouraged visitors to test their skills while taking a break from exploring the showground, creating plenty of laughs and friendly competition. Activities like these helped bring people together, creating opportunities for conversations that extended beyond the game itself into discussions about careers, training and competence across the construction plant industry.

Alongside the activities, the most valuable part of the event remained the opportunity to listen. Speaking directly with test centres and testers provided useful feedback on the day-to-day delivery of CPCS testing, while conversations with card holders highlighted the importance of maintaining a scheme that is trusted, recognised and responsive to industry needs. These discussions help shape future improvements and reinforce the collaborative relationship between CPCS and the wider construction sector.

Hillhead has always been about bringing the industry together, and this year's exhibition was no exception. From manufacturers and training providers to contractors, plant operators and awarding organisations, the event provided an environment where ideas could be exchanged, relationships strengthened and future opportunities explored.

As the exhibition drew to a close, the CPCS team left with valuable feedback, new connections and renewed confidence in the industry's commitment to competence and professional standards. The enthusiasm shown by visitors reinforced the important role that recognised competence continues to play in supporting safe, skilled and productive construction sites.

A huge thank you goes to everyone who visited the CPCS stand, took part in the activities and shared their thoughts over the three days. Events such as Hillhead provide an important reminder that the strength of CPCS comes not only from the scheme itself, but from the community of test centres, testers, employers and plant operators who continue to support and shape it.

We look forward to continuing those conversations over the coming months and to welcoming the industry back to Hillhead when the exhibition returns in 2028.

Watch our highlights video