The infrastructure industry in the UK is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by the increasing demand for sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. As the industry adapts to new challenges and opportunities, several key skills have emerged as essential for professionals seeking to excel in this evolving landscape. Which skills have become the most high-demand in recent years?
Expertise in digital technologies
The UK infrastructure sector is witnessing a surge in demand for workers skilled in digital technologies. Data analysis, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) are driving this demand. With the generation of vast amounts of data in the infrastructure industry, professionals proficient in data analysis can unlock valuable insights to optimise project design, construction, and operations. Deloitte's survey reveals that 70% of UK infrastructure organisations consider data analytics to be crucial to future success.
Automation plays a crucial role in streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. Adoption of automation technologies, such as robotic process automation (RPA) and autonomous vehicles, is steadily increasing in the UK. PwC predicts that the UK construction sector could automate 30% of its activities by mid-2030, leading to significant cost savings and productivity gains.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the UK infrastructure industry. AI-powered technologies like machine learning and predictive analytics offer opportunities to optimise project outcomes. AI can aid in predicting maintenance needs, identifying risks, and optimising resource allocation. The PwC suggests that AI contribution to the global economy will reach $15.7tr by 2030.
Mitigating climate change
The urgent need to combat climate change has prompted a shift in the UK infrastructure industry towards sustainable design and construction practices. This is driven by the goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy, and enhance environmental sustainability. In 2022, zero-carbon sources surpassed traditional fossil fuel generation, accounting for 48.5% of the electricity used, while gas and coal power stations contributed 40% of the total.
Renewable energy has become a crucial focus, with targets to increase its share in total energy consumption. Skilled professionals in solar and wind power are in high demand due to significant growth in solar installations and the government's commitment to expand offshore wind capacity. To achieve the UK's 2050 net zero targets, it is estimated that the sector will need an additional workforce of around 500,000 people.
Energy-efficient design practices are also gaining prominence, emphasising the importance of reducing energy consumption in buildings. Decarbonising existing housing stock is an area of growth as 80% of the buildings that will be in use by 2050 already exist. Professionals knowledgeable in energy-efficient design principles and technologies are sought after to align infrastructure projects with sustainability goals.
Resilience Planning and Disaster Management
Resilience planning and effective disaster management are crucial for UK infrastructure projects due to the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters. Floods, storms, and heatwaves pose significant threats to infrastructure, public safety, and the economy. The UK has implemented comprehensive flood risk management plans supported by legislation such as the Flood and Water Management Act 2010. Initiatives like the Resilience Direct platform enable real-time coordination among emergency responders. Professional bodies like ICE and RICS provide guidance and accreditation, promoting best practices in resilience planning and disaster management.
These efforts ensure a safer and more resilient infrastructure in the face of natural hazards. Skills in risk assessment, crisis management, and emergency response are crucial for ensuring the durability and safety of infrastructure. Professionals who can identify vulnerabilities, develop robust risk management strategies, and coordinate emergency responses during crises are vital assets in the industry.
Project Management and Stakeholder Engagement
Navigating complex infrastructure projects requires strong project management skills, stakeholder engagement, and effective communication.
The demand for skilled project managers in the UK, including those in infrastructure development, is consistently increasing across industries, according to a report by the Association for Project Management (APM). The report highlights that by 2030 there could be a potential shortage of project management skills affecting approximately 5.5million individuals in the UK.
The National Infrastructure Commission (NIC), an independent advisory body, emphasises the crucial role of effective stakeholder engagement in ensuring that infrastructure projects align with the expectations and requirements of communities, government agencies, and private entities. In this complex network of stakeholders, infrastructure professionals with strong stakeholder engagement skills are highly sought after. They play a pivotal role in navigating these intricate relationships, fostering collaboration, and effectively addressing concerns to ensure successful project outcomes.
Effective communication skills are paramount for successful project delivery, as emphasised by the UK Government's Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA). The IPA advocates for the use of clear and concise communication strategies to engage stakeholders, ensure transparency, and uphold public trust. In the infrastructure sector, professionals who possess the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences are highly esteemed for their invaluable contribution.
Infrastructure professionals who can oversee large-scale projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely delivery and budget adherence, are highly sought after. Additionally, the ability to engage with stakeholders, including communities, government agencies, and private entities, is essential to gain support, address concerns, and foster collaboration.
What does this mean for the jobs market?
Finding qualified staff in the UK infrastructure industry has become a daunting task. The talent pool is shrinking, and the demand for these skills is soaring as organisations strive to meet sustainability goals, embrace digital technologies, bolster resilience, and navigate complex projects with ease.
At Electus, we specialise in connecting organisations with professionals possessing these sought-after skills. We understand the frustrations of scouring a limited talent pool, which is why we offer comprehensive support to streamline your candidate sourcing and selection process. We open doors to a wider talent pool, ensuring that you can secure the specialised talent your business needs to thrive.
Say goodbye to the pain points caused by the scarcity of qualified staff. By partnering with Electus, you can transform your talent acquisition process into a seamless and efficient endeavour. Let us take the burden off your shoulders and empower your organisation to overcome the challenges presented by the current talent landscape.
Don't let the diminishing availability of skilled professionals hold your organisation back. Reach out to Electus today and discover how we can make your talent acquisition journey not just transactional, but truly transformative. Together, we'll unlock new possibilities for your business and ensure that you have the right talent in place to achieve your goals.