Navigating the future: Career prospects in the built environment sector

-Prof. (Dr.) Deepak Bajaj FRICS, Director and Head of Institution, RICS SBE, Amity University, Noida

The built environment industry, which includes disciplines like urban planning, building, and design, has always been crucial to the advancement of civilization. Understanding job prospects in this industry is increasingly important as we go forward into new eras of innovation, technology and sustainability.

Newer trends in the built environment sector have lead to newer job opportunities in the industry. The sector is no more about just bricks and cements, but also making the building better in various aspects.

Few trends that can be seen in the industry are:

1. Green Building and Sustainability: The built environment sector is witnessing a paradigm shift towards sustainability. Green building practices and energy-efficient design, are becoming the norm. Professionals who understand sustainable principles and their application will be highly sought after.

2. Technology Integration: Like never before, the sector is embracing technology. Drones, virtual reality, and building information modeling (BIM) are changing how projects are planned and handled. Knowledge of these technologies will provide new career opportunities.

3. Resilient Infrastructure: With the increasing frequency of natural disasters, there’s a growing need for resilient infrastructure. Experts who can design and implement resilient solutions to withstand climate-related challenges will find abundant opportunities.

4. Smart Cities: Smart cities are becoming more popular all around the world. To design connected, effective, and sustainable urban settings, urban planners and technologists are collaborating. Planning and implementing smart cities is a growing field for employment.
   

5. Sustainable Materials and Practices: As society becomes more environmentally conscious, the demand for sustainable materials and construction practices is growing. Professionals who specialize in eco-friendly materials and methods will have a bright future.

Diverse Careers in the Built Environment Sector

1. Architects: Architects are the visionaries of the built environment, designing spaces that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and sustainable. With the growing emphasis on upgrading the living standards architects play a vital role in creating practical space.

2. Civil Engineers: Civil engineers are the backbone of the construction industry. They plan, design, and oversee the construction of infrastructure projects, such as bridges, roads, and buildings. In today’s world, where infrastructure development is a top priority, civil engineers are in high demand with safety and practicality aspects. 
   

3. Urban Planners: Urban planners are essential in forming cities and communities as urbanization grows. They construct land-use plans that make the most use of available space, enhance transportation infrastructure, and produce sustainable urban settings.

4. Construction Project Managers: Construction Project managers are responsible for the efficient execution of construction projects. They ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. With an increasing number of construction projects worldwide, the demand for skilled construction managers remains strong to avoid any spillage of work and money.

5. Sustainable Design Specialists: As sustainability becomes a global priority, specialists in sustainable design are in high demand. They work to reduce the environmental impact of buildings and infrastructure through energy-efficient designs, renewable materials, subsitututes to cultural materials and green construction practices.

6. Quantity Surveyors: also known as construction economists, play a pivotal role in the built environment project life cycle, encompassing both pre-contract and post-contract management responsibilities. In the pre-contract phase, they engage in feasibility analysis, cost planning, design economics, value engineering, procurement, tendering, quantification of works, cost estimation, and contract management.

7. Real estate Management:Techno-Commercial Managers are in high demand across industries for their ability to bridge technical expertise with business acumen. Real estate management opens doors to diverse roles in sectors like Real Estate Development, Property Consulting, Banking, Valuation, and corporate sectors, as real estate is integral to any business. Graduates with an MBA in Real Estate and Urban Infrastructure (REUI) are now working in mid to senior management positions within top Indian and international corporations, collaborating with key decision-makers. 
   

The Need for Careers in the Built Environment

The built environment sector plays a fundamental role in shaping the world we live in. As the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for infrastructure, housing, and sustainable solutions. New career roles are needed to achieve various goals in the industry, like:

1. Infrastructure Development: The need for modern infrastructure, including transportation, energy, and housing, is ever-expanding. Experts in the built environment are essential for creating efficient and sustainable infrastructure solutions.
   

2. Sustainability Challenges: Climate change and environmental degradation pose significant challenges. Careers in sustainability within the built environment sector are crucial for mitigating these challenges and creating a more sustainable future.

3. Urbanization: More people are moving to cities, necessitating careful urban planning and development. Urban planners and architects are instrumental in creating livable, efficient, and environmentally friendly urban spaces.

4. Technological Advancements: Technology is revolutionizing the industry. Professionals who can harness these advancements will drive innovation and improve the efficiency of projects.

Hence, the built environment sector offers a wide range of rewarding careers, from architects who shape our skylines to civil engineers who build our infrastructure. By choosing a career in the built environment, individuals can contribute to creating a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient future for generations to come. Career in this industry even helps them to grow personally and opens paths at global level too. If we see at the monetary side, this sector is growing each and every day.

Also read: Career options after 12 th in the Built Environment sector