Training & Education
THE INDUSTRY MUST INVEST IN YOUNG PEOPLE TO SAFEGUARD THE FUTURE OF CONSTRUCTION The increased use of AI in the construction sector is helping firms realise efficiencies, streamline processes and cut administration, with new software and technology driving growth. But what impact is the rise of digitalisation having on young people and their career prospects? David Lowe, CEO at the UK’s largest engineering surveyors, Survey Solutions, delves into why the industry must continue to invest in the talent of tomorrow alongside embracing digital advancements. Artificial intelligence is impacting the whole economy at present, and of course the construction industry isn’t immune to these changes.
A force for good There are numerous benefits that companies can realise by leaning into the AI boom, including streamlining both the planning and reporting process, utilising new tools and programmes that can help with design and inform decision making, and finding bespoke solutions to construction problems that may previously have sapped time and money. Indeed, the companies and individuals who welcome digitalisation rather than shun it will be best-placed to seize opportunities and not be left behind by forward-thinking competitors. But before the sector races to implement AI tools across every aspect of its operations, it needs to ask a very important question: how will this impact tomorrow’s construction professionals?
The value of hands-on learning By its very nature, construction is a hands-on discipline. For generations, the skills of people working in the sector
The leaders of tomorrow Ultimately, those starting out in their careers today are going to be the construction leaders of tomorrow.
Ultimately, those starting out in their careers today are going to be the construction leaders of tomorrow. have been built and honed by watching others, learning from peers and having expert knowledge passed down to them, with individuals often working their way up from an entry-level or apprenticeship position. With the rise of AI, will young people get these same chances and experiences? Are they going to build the in-depth knowledge that practical, on-site working helps develop? Because of this, as a sector we need to ensure we continue to invest in the construction talent of tomorrow.
Invest now before it’s too late In construction and engineering related disciplines we’ve already seen firsthand how entry level roles are being replaced by AI. But if people leaving education and considering their career prospects see this on a national scale, why would they choose a career in construction? Collectively we need to make the industry more attractive to young people, and that means committing to offering apprenticeship and graduate programmes and taking on trainees.
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If there aren’t the opportunities for them to enter the profession, learn and grow – and they can’t see a pathway to a career in the sector – it will severely hamper the long-term future of a number of industries related to construction, engineering and manufacturing. We simply won’t have enough people with the talent and know-how to keep the wheels of industry turning.
Finding the right balance Of course, there is a middle ground to be found, however. The integration of AI alongside human expertise can help accelerate processes across the industry without necessarily reducing the need for people. Instead, AI should be viewed as a tool that enhances productivity, enabling employees to work more efficiently and focus on higher-value tasks. The digital revolution is here to stay, and businesses should take advantage of the economies of scale utilising AI effectively can bring. But people need to remain at the heart of businesses as the sector enters a new phase of growth. If we don’t invest in young people today, how will we create the construction professionals of tomorrow?