Asked whether employers are actively seeking new skills around AI and digital technologies, Jim’s initial response was straightforward.
“From a recruitment perspective, we’re not yet seeing widespread demand for AI specialists or entirely new AI-driven roles. Most of the vacancies we work on today would be familiar to the industry ten years ago.”
While employers increasingly value experience in BIM, DfMA and digital workflows, these skills have largely been absorbed into existing roles rather than creating new professions.
However, after spending the day listening to industry presentations and case studies, Jim was left questioning whether recruitment is telling the whole story.
Several organisations showcased advanced digital workflows, AI-supported design processes and computational modelling tools that are already delivering tangible results.
“What became clear is that there isn’t one offsite construction industry when it comes to digital maturity. Some organisations are investing heavily in digital engineering, automation and AI. Others are still focused on the fundamentals of digital transformation.”
This divide may explain why what is being discussed at conferences does not always align with what appears in recruitment briefs.
As Jim points out, the industry has seen similar shifts before.
“There was a time when BIM and DfMA were viewed as specialist skills. Today they’re becoming standard expectations across many offsite businesses.”
The key question is whether AI will follow the same path.
Jim believes it probably will, but at a much faster pace than previous technological developments.
“The debate is no longer whether AI will influence future skills requirements. The real question is how quickly.”
For employers, this raises some important considerations. If future skills requirements are not yet reflected in hiring demand, how do you ensure your business is not caught behind the curve?
For professionals, the message is simpler. Nobody needs to become an AI expert overnight, but developing an understanding of emerging technologies, digital manufacturing, automation and data-driven decision making is likely to be a worthwhile investment.
Reflecting on his time at Explore Offsite, Jim’s biggest takeaway was clear:
“AI and advanced digital technologies are no longer future concepts. They’re already being used within parts of our industry today. The challenge for all of us is understanding just how quickly they become mainstream.”
Jim Roach is Managing Director of ARV Solutions, a specialist recruitment consultancy supporting the offsite construction, MMC, timber frame, modular and manufacturing sectors. Through daily conversations with employers and professionals across the industry, he provides insight into the skills, recruitment and workforce challenges shaping the future of construction.
Want to discuss your current recruitment challenges?
Get in touch – Jim.Roach@arvsolutions.co.uk | 0117 959 2008
More information on this year’s Explore Offsite event here:
Explore Offsite Conference – Offsite Hub
