The construction industry is one of the most significant contributors to the United States GDP. It contributes about 4% of the country’s overall GDP, higher than the combined services, utilities, and agriculture sectors. The industry is responsible for constructing residential and commercial buildings, highways, bridges, and other infrastructures.
The industry has been experiencing severe disruptions in recent years, both from economic turmoil and technological innovations. However, if you’re new in the industry, you can take advantage of these disruptions and become a trailblazer. Here are five of the most significant disruptors of the construction industry and how to take advantage of them.
Skill-shortage
The construction industry is experiencing a massive skill-shortage of the pandemic. In addition, the pandemic has caused a decrease in the number of international workers, who make up a significant portion of the construction workforce.
The industry is also facing an aging workforce, with baby boomers retiring rapidly. The skill shortage has caused an increase in wages and a decrease in productivity.
In order to take advantage of this situation, you can start a recruitment firm. You should concentrate on engineers, as they are highly sought out in the industry. Consider getting some field service engineers in your contacts. Many projects will need them for maintenance and fixes. Other kinds of engineers you should concentrate on are civil, environmental, and electrical engineers. All of these are crucial to the industry.
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
BIM is a process that uses three-dimensional modeling to create a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a construction project. It is an essential tool for construction managers, as it helps them to plan, design, and construct buildings and infrastructures.
There are many advantages to using BIM. For one, it helps to reduce errors and can save time and money. It also allows for better coordination between different teams working on a project. Additionally, BIM can be used to create virtual simulations of projects, which can help with the planning process.
If you’re looking to get ahead in the industry, you should learn how to use BIM. Many software programs offer training courses on how to use BIM. You can also find many online resources that will teach you the basics of BIM.
Sustainability
The construction industry is under pressure to become more sustainable. This is due to the increasing awareness of the impact of climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
There are many ways to make construction projects more sustainable. For example, using recycled materials, using renewable energy sources, and designing buildings for energy efficiency.
To get ahead in the industry, you should learn about sustainability and how to make construction projects more sustainable. For example, you can start using sustainable materials such as bamboo, recycled steel, and recycled concrete. You can also consider using renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power.
Modular Manufacturing
Modular manufacturing is a process in which construction projects are built using prefabricated modules. This type of manufacturing is becoming increasingly popular, as it is more efficient and can save time and money.
Modular manufacturing can reduce construction waste. It also allows for a more controlled environment, which can help to reduce errors. Additionally, modular manufacturing can help to improve coordination between different teams working on a project.
It started in the 1960s as a means of construction for hospitals and schools but has since been adapted for use in various settings, including office buildings, hotels, and even homes.
While modular manufacturing has many benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider as well. One is that the process can be inflexible, as modules must be designed and created specifically for each project. Additionally, modular manufacturing can be more expensive than traditional methods, as it requires specialized equipment and trained workers.
Robotics
Undoubtedly, robotics is having a significant impact on the construction industry. In many ways, they are a disruptor, changing how projects are managed and delivered.
Robotics can automate bricklaying and welding, speeding up the construction process. They can also help to improve safety and accuracy, making construction more efficient and reliable.
Many different types of robotics are being used in construction, from small drones to large-scale machines. The most common type of construction robot is the automated guided vehicle (AGV). AGVs are used to move materials around construction sites and can be controlled remotely. These are the best investments you’ll make if you want to be competitive in the industry. So put some money into AGVs and see your overall productivity skyrocket.
The construction industry has new disruptors. However, when utilized the right way, these disruptors can help to improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety in construction. Therefore, if you want to get ahead in the industry, you should learn about these disruptors and how to use them to your advantage.
