Speaking in my current role as an educator at Massey University, my outlook for the building industry is very positive. I am personally excited about the opportunities that it will provide for the next generation wishing to be a part of it.
There are some exciting and attractive opportunities for young tradespeople and building professionals being provided by the New Zealand construction industry. This is being supported by our government through ongoing training and apprenticeship programmes, as well as the educational programmes within our universities and training institutes.
With factors such as a growing population, a need for better performing, healthier buildings, and a desire to continue spending by both the government and the private sector, the next generation’s confidence in the construction industry is being bolstered.
As a senior lecturer in Construction Management at Massey University in Auckland, the quality, and abilities I see in our current students, studying with the School of Built Environment, is very reassuring. Massey University is a long-term deliverer of distance education and that, alongside our recent experience with COVID, has reshaped our classrooms; they have an online presence with more digital interactivity, enabling a modern and fresh approach to the delivery of information in lectures and tutorials. This is also developing our students’ skills in this area, which is commendable given the future success of our building industry is becoming more and more dependent on managing greater amounts of data and embodying more digital tools into its skillset.
The ability to pivot at speed is reflected in the currently proven resilience of the New Zealand construction industry. Being quickly adaptable, able to evolve and deal with disruptors, are examples of traits that both the industry and our students have recently displayed. These strengths will only bode well for the future.
The evolution of one of the newest disciplines playing an ever-increasing role in the construction industry and that we study at Massey University, is Building Information Modelling (BIM). It is providing ample opportunities for current and future designers, site or technical delivery teams, computer modellers working with virtual and augmented reality, as well as facility managers.
Further digital advancements will develop the building industry and its people, through technology such as machine learning. It is hoped that machine learning will improve quality, safety, and productivity. Watch this space!
The next generation need not be deterred by the industry’s historically cyclical nature of peaks and troughs regarding labour and supply chain demands. These cycles usually lead to longer term positive and steady growth to keep up with demands for new and renovated residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
As an active member of the New Zealand Institute of Building (NZIOB), I see first-hand the opportunities available to my students who become NZIOB Student Members. The chance for them to engage with leaders within the building industry and have those conversations around all the positive success stories, which are vital for their studies and future careers.
Indeed, the future is certainly bright.
Dr Gregory Chawynski
BTech, GradCertEng, PhD, MEng, DipMEEC
(Diploma of Managerial Excellence in Engineering & Construction)
FHEA FAIB MNZIOB CBP MAIPM
Engagement Lead - School of Built Environment and Senior Lecturer in Construction Management, Massey University, Albany, Auckland
