Working in Construction

Jobs in the Construction industry are forecast to grow, with technology and greener construction bringing lots of new opportunities. Growth is predicted in Infrastructure (such as road and rail links) and house building.

Future Trends

As robotics technology is becoming more precise and accurate, they’ll soon become a commanding force in the construction industry. People who have computing, design and engineering skills will be in demand as the use of technology increases.

The very latest technologies are being used to visualise, design and build amazing structures. Digital technology is increasingly used to construct buildings as 3D-models before they are built in reality. Building Information Modelling (BIM) enables a structure to be virtually modelled from its conception right through to the management of the building once complete. 'Virtual Reality' and 'Augmented Reality' are widely used as part of the design process to allow a BIM model to be experienced and analysed in a computerised 3D environment. Drones are helping to survey land and real time collaboration software is expected to function as the digital backbone for the construction process. Wearable technology is expected to play a substantial role in boosting safety on site and in monitoring the project more efficiently.

Renewable power now supplies more electricity than fossil fuels in the UK and all new buildings must adhere to green specifications.

Companies are using more innovative methods to train: from 'Virtual Reality' headsets which allow you to perform simulated tasks in low-risk environments to game-based courses that provide more engaging and flexible ways to learn. As every aspect of the construction process harnesses new techniques and technologies in the sector increasingly needs forward thinking people who would like to be at the cutting edge of construction’s innovation revolution.

Routes in: There are many routes into working in the construction industry. An apprenticeship will help you learn a practical skill while earning at the same time and are available at intermediate, advanced, higher or degree level. For some roles, such as architect, employers will look to recruit graduates. Some organisations offer industry placements, summer placements and work shadowing to undergraduates which can help towards gaining experience in this sector.

Useful websites

CITB - https://www.citb.co.uk/

Go Construct - https://www.goconstruct.org/

Women into Construction - https://women-into-construction.org/

Sources: Construction Blog: Stories From The Construction Industry | Go Construct

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