Future skills needed in the construction industry

The construction industry often has a range of new developments and initiatives that are constantly being introduced to its workforce, such as tablets and drones. These can assist workers across all roles and sectors to ensure their building projects are as efficient as possible. 

Because of these developments, there is a requirement for workers to adapt to new ways of working. Hannah Pennell for Kimberly Access looks at some of the future skills and training that will be needed in the construction industry.

In the next couple of years, drones, smart helmets, 3D printing and construction robots will be fully embraced within the construction world. They have already indicated their advantages, and can carry out work that humans might not be able to do: from monitoring progress more efficiently and effectively, to see what staff are working on across the site and overcome challenges that may be presented.

It is vital that future workers are trained to understand how and why these technologies work, as they will eventually become part of their everyday working lives.

Digital skills                                                                                           

Today, most industries require basic digital skills; construction is no different. The days of pencil and paper have gone, and have been replaced by pieces of technology, including mobile apps, tablets and wi-fi that allow workers to digitally visualise their projects.

They can also use them to store data, make edits, updates or to find out information about their build. Although many construction workers will have already used digital equipment systems, such as BID, the digital age is constantly changing and new developments are always being released.

All future workers should be fully trained across all digital aspects of the role, and adapt to these as and when required.

Sustainability focused

With the demand for green builds increasing, there will be extra pressure on the construction industry to hire workers who have a knowledge, and understanding, of energy consideration.

All roles involved should be trained in this area to be aware of how a build can have an impact on the environment, and be ready to turn new builds eco-friendly.

Attracting the next generation of construction workers

For the past few years, the construction industry has faced several issues; mainly surrounding the skills shortage and an ageing workforce.  Because of this, there has been a lot of attention from schools and colleges, who have offered apprenticeships to train young people ‘on the job’.

They want to attract the next generation into building a career within this field, and many schools and colleges use the latest high-tech equipment to showcase how the traditional construction world has changed.

Through encouraging this now, it will open new career choices for people to become part of this ever-growing industry, and obtain a range of skills that will set them up for life.