Understanding the Role & Impact of Applied Education on Skills Development for the Construction Sector
Understanding the Role & Impact of Applied Education on Skills Development for the Construction Sector

Human capital management and labour shortage have been ongoing issues for the construction industry. The industry will continue facing an extensive skilled labour shortage unless we start changing the perceptions about a construction career and address the significant challenges of hiring new employees, particularly amongst youth, women, and diverse groups. Several reports and studies have highlighted gaps in EDI (equality, diversity, and inclusion) within the construction sector. Some of that can be attributed to the persistent misconceptions and stereotypes about the construction industry to be unsafe, unsophisticated, and very physically demanding.
So how can we make our industry more appealing to young professionals? Applied education aimed at preparing students and trainees to be job ready with a breadth of skills and competencies – from problem solving and teamwork organizational skills, to technology tools and proficiencies – can help support the transition of the future construction workforce and ensure that the industry continues to attract bright and diverse talents.
This interactive seminar will encourage attendees to actively participate and will include a short presentation about the role of applied education and a panel discussion with construction industry professionals. This seminar will address the following areas and attendees will learn to: • Recognize trends in construction • Identify key construction skill gaps and human capital challenges • Review the role and importance of applied education in construction • Define a path to ensure applied education and construction attract new diverse talent