Introducing the Skills Gap Matrix (Del. 2.1)

BuildSkills Academy, a leading initiative in revolutionizing vocational education and training (VET) for the construction industry, proudly announces the completion of Deliverable 2.1. This milestone marks a significant advancement in addressing the pressing skills gap within the European construction sector.

Deliverable 2.1 represents a meticulous culmination of research and collaboration aimed at comprehensively addressing the skills and competences required across various occupations and EQF levels. The report sets a new standard for VET providers, offering insights that will shape the future of the industry.

Context: Recognizing the pivotal role of VET in preparing the workforce for the green and digital transitions in construction, BuildSkills Academy is committed to empowering VET providers with the necessary tools and insights. Deliverable 2.1 represents the initial phase of this journey, laying the groundwork for strategic upskilling and reskilling initiatives.

Research Methodology: The development of Deliverable 2.1 involved a rigorous analysis of topical areas crucial to the future of the EU construction sector. Drawing upon existing literature, EU policies, and insights from similar projects, BuildSkills Academy identified five priority areas: Net-Zero Carbon Emissions, Climate Resilience and Adaptation, Circular Economy Practices, Sustainable Materials and Sourcing, and Occupant Health and Wellbeing. Additionally, 38 occupations were categorized according to the European Skills, Competences, Qualifications and Occupations (ESCO) taxonomy, aligning them with the building lifecycle for comprehensive coverage.

Skills Gap Matrix: Central to Deliverable 2.1 is the Skills Gap Matrix, representing the synthesis of research findings and the ESCO database. Through a meticulous two-stage process, BuildSkills Academy refined and expanded upon existing skill sets, ensuring relevance and applicability across various occupational domains. The framework identifies critical skills and competences while anticipating potential labor market needs, providing a strategic roadmap for industry stakeholders.

As BuildSkills Academy unveils Deliverable 2.1, stakeholders across the construction ecosystem are invited to engage with the findings and join the initiative in shaping the future of vocational education and training. Together, we can build a workforce equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, driving sustainable growth and innovation within the European construction sector. Explore the full report and its implications for the industry HERE and HERE.