How is construction adapting for the future?

The construction industry always adapts to the changing needs of society, the advancement in technology and new processes, from making eco-friendly materials to sustainability. This is just one of the many reasons it is such a great industry to work in – something is always fresh and new.  

Let’s take a look at some of the technologies that are changing the construction industry, and some of the roles and career paths available if you’re looking to shape the future of construction. 

The future of construction

The future of construction will be dominated by sustainability and digital technology. Sustainability in construction is important because the construction industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, and construction will be influenced by a demand for more technologically advanced processes.

Sustainable technologies

Sustainable technologies are being increasingly incorporated in construction projects. Some of these technologies include:

• Biodegradable materials
• Self-powered buildings
• Water efficient technologies
• Smart appliances

Eco-friendly materials

To reduce construction’s carbon emissions, natural and biodegradable building materials are growing in importance, especially as the UK seeks to become net zero by 2050. Materials like cob, bamboo, cork and straw have a range of properties that make them ideal for use in construction, with the added benefit of being recyclable and sustainable.

Virtual reality

Developments in VR and AR mean more efficient planning for construction projects because designers can show clients what their building will look like before work has begun. More complex aspects of projects can also be visually demonstrated, aiding transparency, and helping to reduce material or labour wastage.

Artificial intelligence

AI or machine learning can be used in construction for tasks like project planning, risk management and predictive maintenance. AI can reduce the manual labour of a project to save time and money, or analyse large amounts of data and turn them into 3D models of building projects. As with so much of AI, the potential of the technology will grow hugely in the future, and its applications in construction will be far reaching.    

3D printing

3D printing helps to create scaled-down complex or bespoke design structures, reducing material and labour costs and producing less waste. It might also allow for construction to be completed in environments not suitable for people to work in or used to reduce accidents. 

Drones

Drones (or unmanned aerial vehicles) are a valuable tool for site managers, site inspectors, health and safety advisors, surveyors and other construction professionals. Drones can be used for aerial surveys and inspections, to highlight health and safety issues or to monitor project progress.

Digital construction careers

Architectural technician

An architectural technician specialises in presenting building designs using technology. They provide technical guidance to clients and liaise with the construction design team to bring new structures to life. Architectural technicians work with architects to help develop building models, ahead of construction taking place. 

CAD operative

A CAD operative uses computer software to produce 2D and 3D drawings for construction and manufacturing projects. CAD technicians or operators design buildings, machinery or component parts. They take complex information and use it to produce technical building diagrams for architects, engineers and other construction workers.

Machine learning engineer

Machine learning engineers design the software and create the algorithms that enable machines to understand and interpret large volumes of data, and then recommend actions. Machine learning is increasingly being applied in construction, playing a role in generative design, risk management and health and safety mitigation. 

BIM manager/ technician

A building information modelling technician or manager will use computer software and technologies to gather information about a project and produce a model in multiple dimensions. BIM managers work with designers, clients and architects to make sure production materials and designs are created and managed efficiently during a project.

3D printing technician

3D printing technicians produce the 3D printed items that are helping to transform the sustainability of the construction industry. Working closely with 3D visualisers and BIM modellers, these highly skilled professionals learn how to operate, service and repair 3D printing machines. 3D printing technicians could be making models, prototypes and actual parts of buildings.

Drone operator/pilot

Drones are a valuable tool for  site managers, site inspectors, health and safety advisors, surveyors and other construction professionals. Drone operators can be the person flying the drone, or the owner of the drone. Pilots or flyers have to pass a theory test to qualify for a Flyer ID and will be skilled users of drone flying software and 3D visualisation packages.

VR/AR developer

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality developers create the immersive 3D applications that the construction industry increasingly uses to demonstrate project designs. VR and AR developers use their knowledge of programming languages like C#, Java, Python and C++ to build these hugely impressive interactive environments.

Construction’s future is your future

Explore what is possible with a career in construction at Go Construct. We have over 170 different job profiles, including many digital and sustainable roles.