March is Construction Education & Careers Month
March at www.highways.today is dedicated to Construction Education & Careers Month, where we delve into the crucial aspects of nurturing and preparing future generations for the construction industry.
This month, we spotlight in-depth coverage on the significance of construction education, showcasing initiatives, innovations, and insights from leading companies and educators.
Join us as we champion the future of the industry, emphasizing the importance of equipping upcoming generations with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to build a robust and sustainable future.
Construction Education Champions
Mace: Committed to using 100% renewable energy and reaching net-zero carbon emissions. Mace has pioneered over 20 diesel-alternative and energy-saving digital solutions, implementing a strategy called ‘Steps without footprints’ to engage employees in their sustainability goals.
Lendlease: With a sustainability framework focused on sustainable economic growth, vibrant communities, and healthy planet and people, Lendlease aims for water conservation, waste reduction, sustainable material sourcing, renewable energy use, and carbon offset purchases. They participate in the Task Force for Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) for future scenario planning.
Canary Wharf Group (CWG): Since 2012, CWG has purchased 100% renewable electricity for the Canary Wharf Estate and has achieved zero waste to landfill from managed operations. CWG focuses on developing technology and future places to mitigate climate change.
Laing O’Rourke: Organizes sustainability priorities around Environment, People, Industry, and Community (EPIC) themes. Laing O’Rourke employs a sustainability strategy that addresses economic, social, and environmental challenges, using digital engineering tools to reduce waste throughout project lifecycles.
Sir Robert McAlpine: Has a sustainability strategy covering net-zero carbon emissions, resource efficiency, ethical procurement, and social value. They aim for year-on-year carbon emission reductions and apply circular economy principles to maximize resource efficiency.
Skanska: Analyzes products and technology to incorporate sustainability at all construction stages. Skanska’s environmental performance is measured using the Skanska Color Palette™, which ranges from Vanilla (legal compliance) to Deep Green (near-zero environmental impact in energy, carbon, materials, and water).
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Construction Education Trends
As we venture into 2024, the construction industry stands on the brink of a transformative era, driven by rapid technological advancements and a growing commitment to sustainability.
In this dynamic landscape, certain trends in advanced construction materials are emerging as game-changers, poised to redefine the way we build and interact with our built environment. From eco-conscious choices to technological marvels, these trends not only reflect our evolving needs but also our aspirations for a more efficient, sustainable, and innovative future in construction.
Let’s explore the top three trends that are set to make a significant impact in 2024.
Digital and Smart Technologies
The construction industry is increasingly leveraging digital tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) to enhance the design, construction, and management of buildings.
This trend in education focuses on equipping students with the skills to use these technologies effectively, fostering a generation of professionals who can improve efficiency and reduce costs through digital solutions.
VR/AR for Training
Virtual and Augmented Reality technologies are revolutionizing construction education by providing immersive, hands-on training experiences without the physical constraints of traditional classrooms.
These tools allow students to explore complex building systems, safety protocols, and construction techniques in a controlled, interactive environment, enhancing their understanding and retention of critical concepts.
Sustainability and Green Building Practices
With a growing emphasis on sustainability, construction education is adapting to include green building practices and principles.
Educating the next generation of construction professionals on sustainable design, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly materials ensures that the industry can meet the demands of climate change and environmental stewardship.
Apprenticeships and Practical Experience
The value of apprenticeships and on-the-job training is gaining recognition as an essential component of construction education.
These experiences offer students practical insights and real-world skills, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and its application in the field, and preparing them for successful careers in the construction industry.
Online and Remote Learning Platforms
The expansion of online and remote learning platforms has democratized access to construction education, allowing a broader audience to gain valuable knowledge and skills.
These platforms offer flexible learning options that can accommodate different schedules and learning paces, making construction education more accessible to aspiring professionals worldwide.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, future trends in education may include greater emphasis on cross-disciplinary studies, integrating construction with fields like environmental science and technology.
The rise of smart cities could lead to courses focused on constructing technologically advanced, sustainable urban environments. Additionally, the increasing importance of resilience in construction against climate change and natural disasters might shape curricula.
These potential trends suggest a dynamic future for construction education, preparing professionals to tackle the complex challenges of tomorrow’s built environment.
Construction Education Top Ten Resources
In today’s global construction industry, staying ahead requires constant learning and upskilling. Here’s a list of the top ten global construction education resources designed to cater to professionals across the globe, offering a range of learning opportunities from technical skills to management and sustainability practices:
- WorldSkills International: Promotes skills excellence and development in the trades, including construction, through competitions and educational programs worldwide.
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): A global professional body that accredits professionals within the land, property, construction, and infrastructure sectors, offering training and qualifications.
- Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB): An international body for construction management and leadership, offering accreditation, education programs, and professional development opportunities.
- Autodesk University: An international conference and online learning community that offers courses and seminars on Autodesk software, widely used in the construction industry for design and modeling.
- LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification: Offered by the U.S. Green Building Council but recognized globally, LEED certification courses educate on sustainable building practices
- International Labour Organization (ILO) Training Centre: Offers courses on construction safety and health, project management, and green building practices with a focus on developing countries.
- The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE): Based in the UK but with a global membership, ICE offers learning and qualification opportunities for civil engineers and construction professionals worldwide.
- Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Academy: Based in Singapore, BCA Academy offers a wide range of programs and courses focusing on the built environment, aiming to provide the Asian construction industry with skilled professionals in areas such as green building, construction IT, and project management.
- Engineers Without Borders (EWB): An international organization that supports community-driven development programs worldwide through engineering projects, including construction. EWB also offers educational resources and opportunities for engineers and construction professionals to apply their skills in challenging environments, promoting sustainable development.
- Highways.Today: Our own online course platform collaborate with universities worldwide to provide courses in construction management, engineering, sustainability, and other related fields.
Whether you’re just starting out in the construction industry or looking to advance your career, these global resources offer valuable knowledge and skills to help you succeed. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow with these leading educational platforms and institutions, and pave your way to becoming a more proficient and knowledgeable construction professional.
Construction Education and Careers Events
For construction professionals eager to advance their education and careers, participating in specialized events can offer invaluable insights and opportunities.
Below are the top ten global events centred on construction education and career development, perfect for those looking to expand their knowledge and connections in the industry.
- Associated Schools of Construction (ASC) Annual Conference (USA): This conference focuses on construction education, bringing together faculty, students, and industry professionals to discuss educational strategies, research, and collaboration opportunities.
- RICS World Built Environment Forum Summit (Global): Hosted by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, this summit addresses the latest trends in the built environment, offering insights into career development and the future of construction professions.
- Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) National Conference & Trade Show (USA): CMAA’s event is dedicated to the practice of construction management and provides educational workshops, certification opportunities, and networking events for professionals.
- Women in Construction Conference (Global): This event celebrates and empowers women in the construction industry, offering educational sessions, networking, and discussions on career development in a traditionally male-dominated field.
- International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) Conferences (Global): CIB organizes conferences that focus on innovation in building and construction, including the role of education in advancing the industry.
- Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Lean in Design Forum (USA): Specifically focused on Lean construction principles, this forum offers educational sessions and workshops aimed at improving project outcomes through Lean methodologies.
- ENR FutureTech (USA): Engineering News-Record’s conference focuses on technology for the construction industry, offering sessions on innovative tools and practices that impact education and career development.
- Autodesk University Construction Sessions (Global): While Autodesk University covers a broad range of topics, its construction sessions specifically focus on the use of Autodesk software in construction education and professional development.
- BIM World (Global, with a notable event in France): Concentrating on Building Information Modeling, BIM World is an important event for construction professionals looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in BIM for career advancement.
- EduBUILD (Australia): Part of the Australian EduTECH, EduBUILD focuses on infrastructure planning, construction, and management for educational facilities, offering insights into trends and technologies that are shaping the future of educational construction projects.
Attending these events can significantly enhance your understanding of construction education and career pathways, offering access to the latest industry trends, educational advancements, and networking opportunities.
Whether you are just starting your career or looking to further your professional development, these global events provide a platform to grow, learn, and connect with like-minded professionals and industry leaders.
Construction Industry Training, Education and Certification
In the dynamic world of construction, continuous learning and certification are key to staying ahead. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your skills, gain new insights, or achieve professional recognition, engaging with reputable training, education, and certification bodies is crucial.
Here’s a list of the top ten global organizations committed to advancing construction industry standards through comprehensive training, education, and certification programs.
- National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) (USA): A not-for-profit foundation created to develop standardized construction and maintenance curricula with portable credentials, promoting a safe and productive workforce.
- Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) (UK): An international body offering professional accreditation for construction managers, focusing on leadership and management in the built environment.
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) (Global): A professional body that accredits professionals within the land, property, construction, and infrastructure sectors worldwide, ensuring professional standards and providing educational resources.
- Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) (USA): Specializes in improving construction management practices through educational programs, certification, and advocacy efforts.
- American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) (USA): Accrediting agency dedicated to promoting quality construction education programs and ensuring that academic standards are met.
- Lean Construction Institute (LCI) (USA): Focuses on transforming the construction industry through Lean approaches to project design and delivery, offering training and certification in Lean Construction.
- Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Academy (Singapore): Provides education and training for the building and construction sector, promoting best practices and supporting the industry’s development and regulatory needs.
- Australian Institute of Building (AIB) (Australia): Offers members professional recognition and development opportunities in the building and construction industry through certification and education.
- Canadian Construction Association (CCA) (Canada): Promotes the national interests of the construction industry, offering educational resources, certification, and advocacy.
- Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) (UK): Aims to improve construction site workers’ competence and reduce accidents through a card certification system that proves the holders’ training and qualifications.
Engaging with these esteemed organizations can significantly boost your professional trajectory in the construction industry. By participating in their training, education, and certification programs, you’ll not only enhance your skill set but also align yourself with the best practices and standards recognized globally.
Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role or pivot to a new area within the industry, these bodies provide the resources and recognition to support your career development.
