Kathryn Lennon-Johnson is a behavior change specialist
Take a moment to transport yourself back to your 13-year-old self. What dreams went through your mind as you contemplated the limitless possibilities of the future? Can you remember that spark of exhilarating inspiration that ignited your heart?
Maybe it was a vision of a world that fascinated you, or maybe it was someone you knew, someone who already walked the path you long to walk. When you shared your aspirations with those around you, what were their reactions? Have they fueled your fire or doused it with skepticism?
Think about the guidance you received, the career and educational advice that shaped your perception of what was possible. And now, reflect on the journey that followed. Did you have the opportunity to pursue that dream or did life lead you in a different direction?
“Today we are called to assume the crucial role of forging alliances that bridge the gap between education and industry”
Today, as young people imagine what their lives could be, we are called to take on the crucial role of forging partnerships that bridge the gap between education and industry, painting a picture of the power of the built environment as source of good
The construction sector is at a critical juncture, facing an imminent skills shortage that threatens progress. By 2025, a shortage of 2.3 million workers could cause project delays and increase costs. But we have the power to reshape the narrative. We don’t just build buildings, we forge opportunities, aspirations and a better future for generations to come.
Beyond traditional learning
To bridge the skills gap, we need to work closely with the education sector, guiding them on what works in modern careers outreach. Beyond traditional activities, we can leverage cutting-edge technologies like Minecraft, drones, SketchUp, and live site broadcasts to captivate young minds. By embracing social media platforms and the vernacular of a student audience, we can expand our reach, engage a wider audience and showcase the various facets of our industry.
But technology should not be a sticking plaster for the lack of substance and depth in school engagement. Digital tools and technologies may resonate more effectively with young people, but teachers are clear that they should always be used to demonstrate the complex aspects of our work rather than as gimmicks.
As stewards of the built environment, it is our duty to weave together the threads of history, culture and sustainability. For the growing majority of socially conscious students, we can show our commitment to environmental stewardship through practical, real-world examples using the myriad of sustainability software and tools,
A world of innovation
Digital innovation also allows us to maximize our resources. Through recorded content, we can create a rich library of educational materials, allowing schools to access our experience and knowledge beyond one-off events. Virtual site tours, virtual work experience and interactive encounters provide insight into the dynamic world of construction, expanding horizons regardless of geographic limitations. These digital materials respect the time-pressured realities within industry and education, and can benefit us both.
I urge employers in the construction industry to embrace digital innovation and embark on sustained collaborations with educational institutions. Together we can bridge the skills gap and create a construction industry that thrives on digital literacy and innovation.
Some practical steps:
- Embrace platforms like Minecraft Education, which allows students to explore virtual building environments and unleash their creativity while still tying into the curriculum.
- Connect and collaborate with others in the industry who have already established effective digital libraries and tools. We don’t have to keep reinventing the wheel.
- Introducing students to design software like SketchUp, empowering them to create and refine their architectural visions.
- Host live broadcasts and webinars, allowing students to safely witness construction processes in real time and interact with industry professionals. This also shows consideration of school budgets and time pressures.
- Showcase sustainability tools and platforms to demonstrate your commitment to environmentally conscious building practices.
As passionate professionals in the construction industry, we never forget why we fell in love with this field. By showing the possibilities of digital innovation we can involve various perspectives and invite collaboration, achieving a built environment that becomes a true reflection of society’s collective aspirations and needs.
