Speaking about the School of the Built Environment, and sector itself, Vice Chancellor, Ashley Wheaton speaks about the future of the sector, and its identity… “If we want young people to join our industry, we must show them an industry worth joining”, He says. Ultimately skills shortages facing the industry are subject to an issue other than the obvious, it may simply be about perception.
Ashley calls for the sector to present an outward-facing image of unity, and for a single built environment ‘super sector’. According to Ashley, the industry does not currently adequately present the diverse range of roles and experiences that can be found as a whole, within the sector.
“Here lies the biggest opportunity for our sector: we can answer the questions young people care about most. Climate change? The built environment generates 40% of global carbon emissions – we can lead on net zero. Social justice? How we design homes and infrastructure can shape inclusive, healthy, fulfilling lives.”, He states.
Partnership and collaboration will be critical. It is understood that the sector needs up to 170,000 new workers every year for the next five years and that 350,000 young people are not in education, employment, or training as of this summer. ‘Bridges’ are required to ensure education providers, employers and industry bodies are working together to make opportunities visible, accessible, and compelling.
To read more about Ashley Wheaton’s comments, see HERE
