Building the skills for a thriving construction industry

Construction is an important part of the EU economy, employing more than 13 million people. However, it has been on the ‘shortages list’ for many years, facing a persistent lack of skilled professionals. As the twin (green and digital) transition is rapidly transforming the way we live and work, it is more important than ever to close this skills gap, boosting the sector and improving career opportunities along the way.

Acquiring skills for life

A major reason behind the construction sector’s skills stagnation is that while needs are rapidly evolving, employees have a hard time keeping pace. Digital literacy – or, more accurately, the lack of it – is a blocking issue. Outdated training methods can’t address the new requirements, for example knowledge of the building information modelling (BIM) process or the ability to navigate digital project management environments.

The EU LIFE Programme is the EU’s flagship instrument driving fundamental change by targeting climate action initiatives. How is that connected to construction? A key feature of a resilient, sustainable construction sector is its focus on buildings that comply with EU energy performance standards. To that end, the programme has supported the BUILD UP Skills initiative to foster the competencies needed in the sector in driving the transition to energy efficiency and climate neutrality. This means upskilling and reskilling the workforce as necessary, while also shining a light on the opportunities the new era will unlock.

BUILD UP Skills’ plan for 2024-2025 includes helping countries update their national skills roadmaps to support the construction industry and align with its green goals. Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania and Spain have benefitted from this, identifying existing gaps and taking action to mitigate shortages.

Building an action plan

BUILD UP Skills has supported over 100 projects and more than 50 000 individuals on their professional journey in the construction and renovation value chains. The tools and approaches developed include:

training in key areas such as nearly zero-energy building (nZEB), deep renovation and BIM;
innovative training methods, for example on-site or digital training programmes;
skills strategies developed and implemented on a national level with input from relevant stakeholders;
knowledge and expertise sharing with other professionals in the field via organised meetings and the BUILD UP platform;
access to funding opportunities for further training and qualifications.

By participating in BUILD UP Skills, you can upgrade your skill sets and enhance your expertise in one of Europe’s most transformative sectors. Not only will this improve your career prospects, but also contribute to a more sustainable built environment aligned with the EU’s net zero goals.

To find out more about construction skills related projects in your country, visit the BUILD UP Skills Projects page.

Are you considering a career in construction? Read our articles on why this is an excellent idea and how to land your first job.

Construction Blueprint Project

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