SINGAPORE – A task force has been set up to improve the image of the construction, architecture and infrastructure management sectors, in a bid to attract more talent – especially the young – to take up such jobs.
The Government will also double down on efforts to raise awareness of the kind of jobs available in these sectors, said National Development Minister Desmond Lee at the opening ceremony for the International Built Environment Week on Sept 4.
The three-day trade event is being held at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre from Sept 4 to 6.
“It will take the collective efforts of all built environment stakeholders, working together in an inter-disciplinary approach, to realise our vision of making the sector attractive and progressive,” Mr Lee said of the task force, which is led by Surbana Jurong chairman Chaly Mah and Second Minister for National Development Indranee Rajah.
The task force, which also seeks to transform the workforce and workplaces for the future, and encourage sustainable industry practices, will develop ideas in the coming months, he added.
Trade associations and business chambers, institutes of higher learning and young professionals in the built environment sector are also part of the task force.
The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) said the task force was set up to ensure that Singapore has a capable pipeline of professionals and firms to deliver on infrastructure plans for longer-term building projects like the Long Island, Greater Southern Waterfront, Changi Terminal 5 and more.
Separately, a campaign that aims to improve the perception of the industry was also launched on Sept 4.
It will highlight how the work of people in the sector has shaped the way Singaporeans live, and build on efforts to improve public appreciation for the sector, Mr Lee said.
He added: “As we encourage innovation, we see many interesting new jobs being created, which will, in turn, improve career prospects for existing professionals and present exciting opportunities for young talent looking to join the sector.
“The campaign will highlight the sector’s job diversity and these new opportunities that have started to emerge.”
Mr Lee said that apart from branding and public perception, there is “a lot of room for improvement” in the sector. He noted that the built environment community remains concerned about the trajectory of architectural and engineering professions.
Such feedback includes whether there is enough young Singapore talent pursuing careers in architecture and engineering, if remuneration offered is competitive, and if businesses are improving their human resources practices.