BIM (building information modelling) and management skills in general, which are key to future development in construction, are lacking at an industry level, as well as an individual company or organisation level.

That is one of the main conclusions of a report launched today (11 March) at Ecobuild at ExCeL London by the BRE Academy.

The report is based on a survey of 300 industry professionals ranging from leaders to subcontractors. It aims to help the industry understand which skills are in short supply and which are needed now and in the future.

It also highlights a continued image problem for construction, with 91% of respondents saying that people outside the industry have a different perspective of the industry to those within it.

The survey found there is a lack of gender diversity at all levels, with 61% of respondents saying the industry needs to do more to promote diversity. A clear need was identified to establish transparent and appealing career pathways for young entrants, with 74% of respondents saying that these should be ‘actively promoted’ and 67% saying that there should be more focus on promoting construction’s hi-tech and digital aspects.

In addition, the industry should be promoted to academically minded students as well as those aiming for vocational qualifications, and  greater use should be made of high-profile projects in promotional efforts.

The survey concludes that Government should work more closely with colleges and schools to promote apprenticeships and show a stronger commitment to supporting SMEs (smaller companies) financially in offering training. Industry professional bodies should take the lead in promoting technical training.

BRE Academy Director Pauline Traetto said: "Construction currently contributes £92billion a year to the UK economy with a workforce of 3million people. In order to support future growth in the UK as well as rapid expansion in developing countries, a talented, engaged workforce is critical. Only by grappling with the skills shortage highlighted in this report in areas like sustainability and digital design will the industry be able to deliver a low carbon, high performance future."

With future challenges including scarce land and resources balanced against an increasing population and climate change issues, as well as the move towards digital construction and BIM, staff right across the sector need to upskill to keep pace with the changes.

The BRE Academy is committed to scrutinising the market’s needs closely to identify how it can offer support in the future.

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan commented: "Surveys like this one help us in designing effective policies. We remain committed to creating 3million more apprenticeships in this Parliament, many of which will be in the construction sector. We are particularly keen to increase the sector's diversity and help encourage more women to participate."

The BRE Academy skills survey was supported by CITB IEMA and CIAT. "This important research contributes to the evidence we need to work together with industry to close the skills gap,” said Alex Birks, Head of Strategic Training Provision & Development at CITB.