—A Different Set of Skills Is Needed
Residential building wages report the fastest growth in more than five years. And the overall industry is on the cusp of disruption. Both facts present enticing opportunities for young adults still deciding on their career path motivations.
The residential construction industry is ripe with entrepreneurial opportunities for those who can innovate, adapt, and meet the new demands. The businesses created and led by the next generation will require a different type of skilled workforce. They will operate advanced machinery, manage digital tools, and interpret complex data.
Here’s a look at some of the forward-looking university level programs focused on digital literacy, equipment operation, and data analysis:
- University of Texas at Austin’s Construction Engineering and Project Management program. Courses focus on the development and application of advanced construction materials and methods, including 3D printing and sustainable materials.
- University of Southern California’s Master of Construction Management program includes courses in BIM, sustainable construction, and construction technology.
- Georgia Institute of Technology – Master of Science in Building Construction and Facility Management. The program focuses on BIM, construction technology, and integrated project delivery.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)’s Building Technology program explores the use of robotics, automation, and advanced materials in construction.
- Carnegie Mellon University – Robotics Institute offers a range of courses and research opportunities in robotics for construction.
- Purdue University’s Construction Engineering and Management program incorporates courses on construction technology, innovation, and leadership.
- Stanford University’s Sustainable Design & Construction program is focused on the intersection of technology, design, and construction.
- Virginia Tech’s Myers-Lawson School of Construction. Courses and research opportunities include integrated project delivery (IPD) and the use of technology to streamline construction processes. The program emphasizes collaboration, technology integration, and project management in construction.
- Clemson University’s Master of Construction Science and Management program. A strong emphasis on construction technology, includes BIM, digital fabrication, and virtual construction.
- University of Michigan’s Master of Engineering in Construction Engineering and Management program. Curriculum includes advanced construction techniques, materials science, and the integration of new technologies into construction workflows.
- University of Toronto – Building Science program. Digital construction methods, smart infrastructure, and energy-efficient building systems are its focus.
- University College London (UCL) – MSc in Smart Construction program. The curriculum includes digital technologies in the built environment, including IoT, smart materials, and data analytics.
Read Building Savvy’s feature article on how technology is changing the way projects are designed, managed, and executed.
