The Construction Minister met students earlier this month to explore the future of the built environment and how workforce skills and supply challenges can be tackled.
The Construction Future Skills event, at Moulton College in Northamptonshire, saw innovators and contractors demonstrate to the next generation how AI, automation, robotics, and other technologies are changing the way we construct.
Supported by Constructing Excellence (CE) Midlands and the National Federation of Builders (NFB), the exhibition saw Stepnell, Kier Group, Flannery Plant, Talentview Construction, Ridge, and Oculo, among others, showcase some of the latest construction technology on the market.
Speaking after his visit to the Construction Future Skills event, Construction Minister Lee Rowley, said: “Delivering a skilled, vibrant workforce for the construction sector is absolutely essential, so it was fantastic to see the enthusiasm of the students to learn about careers in construction and test the latest innovations at Moulton College.
“Their talent and creativity will enable the sector to continue to drive economic growth and sustainability. This is why through the Construction Leadership Council we are implementing a Skills Plan with the aim of improving access to construction careers and showcasing their benefits.”
During the event, industry decision makers and educators also met to establish how the sector would bring about real change to evolve the industry and shape tomorrow’s skillsets, while looking at how they can help prepare young people with the skills to enter construction.
Moulton College Principal & CEO Corrie Harris said: “Our construction industry is always adapting and improving and is embracing innovation faster than ever.
“At Moulton College, we are in a privileged position to help nurture and grow the sector’s talent coming through, while also speaking to employers regularly about what their current and future skills needs are – so today has been a unique way to bring those two groups together.
“We have had inspiring discussion, topical debate, learning and networking, with high energy from guests and exhibitors who came together to share experiences and learning around how the sector is evolving and the workforce it needs to drive that change.”
Further reading:
- Moulton College invites innovators to Construction Future Skills Event
- Transforming Construction: Building a sector fit for the future
- UK gov considers ‘green skills’ requirements for construction
The event consisted of two parts, an exhibition to showcase new technologies and a workshop focused on establishing the hard and soft skills construction needs for the future – while exploring how best to deliver them.
Exhibitors included 360safeVR, 3D Repo, KOREC Construction, Oculo, Ridge & Partners, and Winvic.
James Gregory, Strategic Business Manager at 3D Repo sharing his experience of the event said: “It’s been great to engage with like-minded people and the next generation in construction.
“They’re coming into a different construction industry – one that’s pushing the boundaries in efficiency and sustainability, and I look forward to seeing the changes they bring when I’m considered the ‘older generation’.”
Image: Construction Minister Lee Rowley (Credit: Moulton College)
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