Shaping A Better Career In Built Environment

Experts are now forecasting that a hybrid work routine will likely be a norm when the pandemic subsides even in traditional sectors like Built Environment (BE). Hence, technology will play a bigger and vital role in the functioning of the built environment sector. The high demand for technically skilled professionals is on the anvil. This also means redundancy of those civil engineers and architects who are not equipped with innovative skills and emerging technologies demanded by an evolving real estate and construction sector. Those desirous of making it big in the BE sector must utilise this pandemic-hit time to upgrade their skills and knowledge by pursuing relevant professional courses. 

With the integration of innovative technologies, today’s BE sector has significantly evolved to where it was a decade ago. Professionals looking to grow in the sector must start by developing expertise in basic tools for planning and execution. Other important technologies that world-class courses in built environment cover are like Building Information Modelling [BIM] Lean Construction, Advanced Energy Management, Smart Building Management, Drone-based Surveying,  Intelligent Transportation System etc. It is critical to be future-ready by enhancing functional skills for fast-tracking career growth in the built environment through acquiring knowledge and skills in these areas. 

In addition to learning about new technologies, what else can one do to build skills to work with the BE sector? 

Upskill for a competitive edge 

With the changing scenario in the world owing to the pandemic, the job market has taken a significant blow. Small and large companies are downsizing and are re-evaluating methods of reducing their costs to tide over this period. Given the dichotomy of a gloomy situation for now coupled with a demanding scenario later, this is the best time to study to upgrade your skillsets and be better prepared in all industry aspects. Whatever the industry situation, depressed or growing, candidates with desired skills will stand out as they have a distinct edge over their peers owing to the relevant skills and competencies acquired through these education programs.

Learn the new technologies for efficacy

Learning about new technologies alone is never enough. It is important to integrate the new learnings in daily use through regular practice to hone or sharpen the skills. Practising your newly learned skills through projects and internships is the best way to develop mastery in them.  In BE courses, from simulations to VR, professors and teachers are finding new and exciting ways to challenge the mental capacity of students and help open their mind to a world of new possibilities.

Practice due diligence

In these times of social distancing and learning from home, look for a course that encourages and provides interaction opportunities with peers, professors, industry stalwarts, subject matter experts, alumni, international exposure and many more, all at the click of a button. Blended learning is being encouraged by institutions all over the globe and in India as well.

The education world, which was forced to go online by the pandemic, is now offering a never-before opportunity to students to expand their knowledge and develop a world view through global peer and expert connections. In these unprecedented times, technology is the critical bridge that connects us to the outside world both in our personal and professional lives. Therefore, up-gradation of technical and professional skills is of prime importance for building a rewarding future. 

Lastly, one important message that the current pandemic has taught us is that change is inevitable and the sooner we adapt, the faster we can move forward. These are unpredictable times and yet, this is the best time to study as education delivery has never been more engaging, interactive, and immersive.

Ashwani Awasthi

Guest Author The author is Managing Director - South Asia, RICS School of Built Environment