The construction industry is changing, and so are the job opportunities. While the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operation (AECO) sector has lagged behind other industries when it comes to digitalisation, big changes are underway. With clients expecting faster results, budgets tightening around the world, and sustainability becoming a key concern, innovative construction technology companies are the driving force behind construction’s digital transformation.
A move toward digitalisation not only creates new opportunities for companies in the industry, but it also leads to new needs within the companies. Employees with specialised knowledge in BIM management and coordination are a valuable asset for companies looking to make the most of digitalisation. This has created a unique employment environment where BIM specialists are able to find employers that align with their values, have promising career growth trajectories, and have the power to significantly influence the future of digitalisation in the construction industry.
Digitalisation in the construction industry
The days of stacks of paper documents and blueprints are a thing of the past as the construction industry navigates its way through the fourth industrial revolution. Construction 4.0 has created a wave of technological advances simplifying and streamlining processes throughout every stage of construction projects, from planning and design all the way through operation and maintenance.
However, the digitalisation of the construction industry isn’t just about incorporating the latest technology. It’s also about connectivity and collaboration. Information that was once siloed is now accessible to everyone, on site or off, with the appropriate access permissions. This enhances collaboration amongst stakeholders, ensuring that everyone has the most-up-to-date versions of all of the necessary information. Digitalisation has also contributed to improved workflows and the automatisation of some processes, saving valuable time and money while promoting transparency and collaborative teamwork.
The importance of BIM roles in Construction 4.0
As any BIM professional knows, BIM is about more than digital 3D or 4D models. Professionals working in BIM management roles are leading the industry’s digital transformation from within and are playing an important part in the construction 4.0 revolution. While the job description tasks may vary depending on the company and position, BIM management professionals are generally responsible for the implementation of Digital Construction procedures and facilitating Building Information Modelling (or Management). Through this, they promote more effective collaboration throughout the construction project lifecycle, which results in better use and management of information.
BIM helps bring the physical world into a digital space that can be accessed from anywhere. There are many benefits to this, including the ability to spot and solve potential problems earlier in the construction process. This contributes to improved project efficiency. Thanks to BIM’s benefits, some governments are now enforcing the use of BIM in government procured projects. Coupled with client demands, this makes it essential for construction companies to be BIM compliant. BIM management roles ensure BIM compliance that meets international standards as well as more effective use of information and innovative technology within a company. Companies that master BIM will find it easier to keep up and advance as the construction industry continues to evolve.
Innovative companies opening new doors
As a result of the shift toward digitalisation and a greater emphasis on BIM, innovative companies are creating new roles and searching for talent that will help further their digitalisation progress and reach their construction 4.0 goals. While BIM experts are often expected to have academic qualifications in civil engineering and considerable experience in the AECO industry, there is not yet a clearly defined career path or rigid set of qualifications required for BIM management roles. This gives companies and BIM experts the unique opportunity to decide what BIM roles are going to look like and the impact they will have on the future of the industry.
The digital revolution is opening many doors for civil engineering professionals with a background in CAD or Document Control and an interest in BIM to transition into BIM management roles.
Individuals in BIM roles have a lot of influence over the future digitalisation of a company
Making them exciting opportunities for those who want to play a crucial role in company growth and development. While every company will have their own set of expectations, specific software can be learned by almost anyone with an aptitude for civil engineering and technology, creating countless job opportunities with a wide range of companies throughout the industry.
This has led to a competitive job market where BIM professionals not only have a chance to choose and potentially design a role that fits them best, but they also have a lot of opportunity when it comes to finding the right company. Many innovative companies recognize the important role that BIM professionals will play in the further development of their company and the industry as a whole. This creates an environment of mutual support and growth. While interesting software to work with and a good salary are important factors in a job search, BIM professionals also have the opportunity to find a company that aligns with their values, such as sustainability and collaboration, and promotes a strong team culture and growth opportunities.
As digitalisation continues, even more doors will open for prospective BIM talent. BIM roles will continue to grow in importance in the coming years and new opportunities will arise as the construction industry progresses through the fourth industrial revolution — making BIM roles an attractive career option for civil engineering professionals.
Thanks to Adam Lamping, Solutions Advisory UK & Ireland at Thinkproject, for this contribution. To hear more from Adam, watch his video predictions for the BIM skills that will be in demand this year. And visit the Thinkproject Good Digital Employer profile to find out more about their opportunities in Digital Construction.