On 17 June 2026, the BuildSkills Academy consortium gathered in Brussels for its annual General Coordination Meeting, hosted by our partners from the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) at the Cyprus Permanent Representation to the European Union. The meeting brought together project partners from across Europe to review progress achieved during the third year of implementation, assess ongoing activities, and coordinate the next steps towards the project’s successful completion.
Throughout the day, partners reviewed progress across all project work packages, celebrating key milestones while identifying priorities for the coming months. Discussions covered project management, communication and dissemination, stakeholder engagement, certification, pilot implementation, and the long-term sustainability of BuildSkills Academy. Particular attention was given to ensuring that all remaining activities stay on track ahead of the project’s final implementation period.
Among the key topics discussed were the completion of Work Package 2, continued implementation of pilot training courses in six countries, further development and exploitation of the Certification Framework, and preparations for the project’s governance and business models that will support the long-term sustainability of BuildSkills Academy beyond the project’s lifetime. Partners also reviewed progress against communication and stakeholder engagement KPIs, discussed website developments, and agreed on actions to further strengthen dissemination and collaboration with external stakeholders across Europe.
The consortium also confirmed the roadmap for the months ahead, including the completion of additional pilot courses, upcoming Masterclasses in Germany and Italy, continued stakeholder engagement activities, and preparations for the final project event planned for early 2027 in Brussels. Partners reaffirmed their shared commitment to delivering high-quality results that support the green and digital transition of the European construction sector through innovative vocational education, certification, and stronger cooperation between industry and training providers.
The meeting once again demonstrated the strength of the BuildSkills Academy partnership and its collaborative approach to developing future-oriented skills solutions for the construction ecosystem. With important milestones already achieved and the final project phase now underway, the consortium continues working together to ensure that the project’s results deliver lasting value for learners, educators, businesses, and the wider construction sector across Europe.
https://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Post_Brussels_meeting.jpeg9111194akvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lthttps://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/buildskills-main.pngakvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lt2026-07-02 11:33:262026-07-02 11:33:27BuildSkills Academy partners meet in Brussels to advance project implementation and prepare the final phase
The first BuildSkills Academy Masterclass“The Pact for Skills and What New Skills Will Drive the Twin Transition?” brought together more than 100 participants onsite and online from across Europe to discuss how the construction sector can address emerging skills needs and prepare its workforce for the green and digital transitions.
Organised by the BuildSkills Academy, coordinated by Cleantech Bulgaria, together with the European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC), the event was hosted in Brussels on 18 and 19 June 2026. It gathered representatives from European institutions, industry organisations, vocational education and training (VET) providers, higher education institutions, research organisations, certification bodies, social partners, and Centres of Vocational Excellence.
Across seven thematic panels, 24 speakers representing leading European organisations shared insights, good practices, and practical solutions for developing a future-ready construction workforce.
Addressing the Skills Challenge of the Twin Transition
The discussions highlighted the key challenges facing the sector:
growing labour and skills shortages across Europe;
the urgent need for upskilling and reskilling of the existing workforce;
increasing demand for green, digital, and circular economy competences;
the importance of attracting new talent to construction careers;
stronger cooperation between industry, education providers, policymakers, and social partners.
A common message emerged throughout the Masterclass: skills development is not only an education challenge – it is a strategic priority for Europe’s competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience.
Exploring the Future Construction Skills
The Masterclass followed a comprehensive approach, moving from European policy priorities to practical solutions and collaborative action.
Starting from the European Skills Policy and Strategic Vision for the Construction Sector, participants examined the Future Skills Needs for the Built Environment and the Innovative Training Solutions and Skills Development Pathways showcasing the BuildSkills Academy CoVE solutions and those of the Construction Blueprint. The discussion moved From Strategy to Implementation focusing on Scaling Skills Development Across Europe. Best Practices in Green and Digital Skills Development have been also shared.
The second day focused on Recognising, Validating and Certifying Skills for the Twin Transition, exploring how micro-credentials, apprenticeships, and transitional skills certification, can make skills more visible, trusted, and portable.
The Masterclass concluded with the Collaborative Action Lab aiming at Designing the Future of Skills Development, where participants worked together to identify challenges, opportunities, and priorities related to skills recognition, training innovation, and future cooperation.
All presentations delivered during the Masterclass are available here.
The BuildSkills Academy team thanks FIEC, all speakers, moderators, and participants for their valuable contributions and commitment to advancing skills development for a more sustainable, digital, and resilient construction sector.
Exploring BuildSkills Academy Solutions
The Masterclass demonstrated the importance of collaboration and shared action in building a skilled and resilient construction workforce.
Stakeholders are invited to visit and explore BuildSkills Academy resources, tools, and methodologies developed to support skills intelligence, training innovation, and lifelong learning in construction. These include the BuildEnrichedSkills Methodology (BESM) and the tailor-made Digital platform, enriched VET courses, and certification approaches designed for training providers, companies, and other actors across the construction ecosystem.
Participants and interested organisations are also encouraged to join the BuildSkills Community and contribute to a growing European network supporting vocational excellence, innovation, and skills development for the twin transition.
What’s Next?
The Brussels Masterclass is the first in a series of BuildSkills Academy Masterclasses aimed at fostering dialogue, sharing good practices, and supporting the implementation of skills solutions for the construction sector.
Two additional Masterclasses will take place later this year, providing further opportunities for stakeholders across Europe to exchange experiences and contribute to shaping the future of construction skills.
The first one will focus on “How sustainable construction will impact the construction sector in the future?” and will be conducted in hybrid format in Berlin, Germany as well as online on17 – 18 September 2026. The event will be co-organized by the German Energy Agency (dena). Тhis masterclass will explore how sustainable construction is changing the way buildings are designed, built, used and reused across Europe. Participants will discover how green and digital transition is reshaping the sector and creating new demands for skills, training and collaboration.
Registration for online participation is already open: REGISTER HERE.
On 8 and 9 October 2026 we’ll have the masterclass on “How to stimulate the interest of young people for taking career in construction?”co-organized by Formedil. The event will be conducted also in hybrid format – in Bologna, Italy during the SAIE Bologna 2026, as well as online. It will explore how innovation, sustainability and inclusive workplaces can make construction careers more attractive to young people. Inspired by entrepreneurial examples from ANCE Giovani, the event will focus on youth engagement and future careers in construction.
Registration for online participation is already open: REGISTER HERE.
Follow us for more details!
https://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/20260618_095716-scaled.jpg19202560akvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lthttps://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/buildskills-main.pngakvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lt2026-07-01 05:33:522026-07-01 05:34:26BuildSkills Academy Masterclass Brought Together European Stakeholders to Shape the Future Skills Agenda for Construction
Assessment of the Strategic Fit of the Certification Framework in the Partner Countries
This deliverable presents the strategic assessment of the BuildSkills Academy Framework for Transitional Skills Certification, evaluating its relevance, feasibility, and potential for adoption across the six partner countries. Through an independent review conducted by the External Quality Assessment Panel (EQAP) and a series of national stakeholder consultations, the report examines how the certification framework aligns with European quality assurance standards, national vocational education and training (VET) systems, and the evolving skills needs of the construction sector.
The assessment confirms the framework’s strong strategic fit with European policy priorities related to green and digital transitions, lifelong learning, and workforce mobility. It highlights broad stakeholder support for a common European certification approach that promotes transparency, quality assurance, and cross-border recognition of skills. The report also identifies key opportunities for further enhancement, including implementation support for VET providers, stronger alignment with national qualification systems, digital certification solutions, and measures to strengthen employer recognition and trust. Overall, the findings demonstrate the framework’s potential to become a scalable and transferable model for certifying transitional skills in the construction sector and beyond.
https://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/D3.4.png10801080akvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lthttps://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/buildskills-main.pngakvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lt2026-06-10 12:58:332026-06-10 12:58:57Deliverable 3.4 | Assessment of the Strategic Fit of the Certification Framework in the Partner Countries
External Quality Assessment Report on the BuildSkills Certification Framework (M36)
This deliverable presents the second independent quality assessment conducted by the External Quality Assessment Panel (EQAP) during months 25–36 of the BuildSkills Academy project. The review focuses on one of the project’s key achievements: the Framework for Transitional Skills Certification, developed in accordance with the ISO/IEC 17024:2012 standard to support the recognition and validation of green and digital skills in the construction sector across Europe.
The report documents the verification process undertaken by an international panel of experts, including the assessment methodology, stakeholder consultations, and detailed evaluation of the framework’s quality assurance mechanisms, transparency, impartiality, and applicability across different national contexts. The findings confirm that the certification framework is robust, credible, and well aligned with European quality assurance principles, offering a scalable model for certifying transitional skills and supporting learner mobility, employer confidence, and cross-border recognition of competencies. The report also provides recommendations for further refinement and future implementation to maximise the framework’s impact and adoption throughout Europe.
The BuildSkills Academy has successfully completed a series of national Country Round Tables dedicated to the verification of its Certification Framework for transitional (green and digital) skills in the construction sector.
The discussions brought together stakeholders from vocational education and training (VET), industry, certification bodies, public authorities, and academia across Bulgaria, Italy, Lithuania, Cyprus, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The aim was to assess the framework’s structure, feasibility, and relevance, while collecting practical feedback to support its further development and implementation.
Strong validation of quality and relevance
Across all participating countries, stakeholders positively evaluated the framework as:
Structured and transparent, with clearly defined certification procedures
Aligned with ISO principles, ensuring credibility and comparability
Relevant to labour market needs, supporting competence-based training and upskilling
The importance of independent certification and objective assessment was consistently highlighted as a key factor in building trust among employers and learners.
Supporting European skills recognition
Participants emphasised the added value of a common European approach, noting that the framework can:
enhance recognition of skills across countries
support workforce mobility
improve comparability of qualifications
At the same time, the framework was seen as a tool to help VET providers update curricula and align training offers with emerging green and digital skills.
Key recommendations for implementation
Stakeholders also identified several important conditions for successful implementation:
alignment with national qualification systems and regulations
stronger involvement of employers and sectoral organisations
provision of practical guidance and capacity-building for VET providers
ensuring visibility, recognition, and financial sustainability of certification
A step toward a trusted European reference
The outcomes of the Country Round Tables confirm that the BuildSkills Certification Framework has strong potential to become a reliable and widely recognised reference for skills in the construction sector.
The feedback collected will directly support the refinement of the framework and its future uptake across Europe.
https://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BSA_CRT_validated.png10801080akvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lthttps://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/buildskills-main.pngakvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lt2026-04-21 13:41:232026-04-21 13:41:25BuildSkills Certification Framework validated by stakeholders across Europe
Certification of 12 BuildSkills Academy Training Courses
This deliverable presents the certification process and outcomes for the twelve training courses developed within the BuildSkills Academy project. Applying the certification scheme established under Deliverable 3.1, all course syllabi and training materials underwent a rigorous assessment and certification procedure based on internationally recognised quality principles and alignment with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). The report describes the governance structure, assessment methodology, quality assurance mechanisms, and certification procedures that ensured the courses meet high academic, pedagogical, and professional standards. As a result, all twelve BuildSkills Academy courses were successfully certified, confirming their readiness for implementation and their contribution to high-quality green and digital skills development in the construction sector.
Europe’s construction sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the green transition, digitalisation, and new performance standards for buildings.
To support this transition, the BuildSkills Academy project has developed a comprehensive certification system for transitional skills in the built environment, designed to strengthen the recognition of professional competences and support workforce upskilling across the sector.
This system consists of two key components:
the BuildSkills Academy Certification Framework for transitional skills and competencies
a set of specific Certification Schemes for targeted professional profiles
Together, they establish a structured and transparent approach for assessing and recognising competences in the construction sector.
The Certification Framework: a common foundation
The Framework for Transitional Skills Certification provides the overall structure and rules for the certification of people working in the construction sector.
Developed in alignment with the principles of ISO/IEC 17024, the framework sets out the general requirements and procedures that certification bodies should follow when assessing and certifying professional competences.
The framework defines:
transparent certification procedures
requirements for assessment and examination
rules ensuring independence, impartiality and confidentiality
procedures for granting, maintaining, suspending or withdrawing certification
rights and obligations of certified professionals
mechanisms for complaints and appeals
By establishing these principles, the framework helps ensure that certification processes are credible, consistent and transparent.
Certification Schemes: translating the framework into practice
While the Certification Framework provides the overall structure and serves mainly the purposes of inspiring certification organizations and VET providers across Europe to integrate this skills recognition approach in their offers, the BuildSkills Academy partners have also applied this process in practice and developed a set of specific certification schemes.
Certification scheme for curricula and training materials
This scheme focuses on the quality and relevance of vocational education and training (VET) programmes. It establishes a structured process through which curricula and training materials can be evaluated and validated to ensure that they:
reflect the competence profiles and learning outcomes required by the sector
integrate the BuildEnrichedSkills Methodology (BESM) developed within the project
provide learners with the knowledge, practical skills, and competences necessary for emerging roles in the built environment
Through this scheme, training providers can demonstrate that their programmes are fully aligned with the competence-based approach promoted by the project, creating a stronger link between training provision and competence certification.
Certification schemes for individuals
In addition to validating training programmes, the BuildSkills Academy project has developed 12 certification schemes for individuals, targeting key professional profiles in the construction sector. These schemes define the requirements for certifying the competences of professionals and workers, including:
the scope of certification and occupational tasks
the competence requirements
prerequisites and eligibility criteria
assessment and examination methods, including theoretical and practical evaluation
conditions for maintaining and renewing certification
Certification is granted to individuals who successfully complete the assessment process conducted by a certification body operating in accordance with the principles of ISO/IEC 17024 for the certification of persons.
Through these schemes, the BuildSkills Academy certification system enables professionals to demonstrate their competence in key transitional skills needed for the evolving construction sector.
Connecting certification with VET
A distinctive feature of the BuildSkills Academy certification system is its strong commitment to updating VET offers for construction professionals.
Candidates for certification are expected to complete training courses enriched through the BuildEnrichedSkills Methodology (BESM) developed within the project. This innovative tool allows VET providers to enrich their training courses with competence-based learning outcomes, ensuring that training reflects the evolving green and digital skills required in the built environment.
Through this integration, the BuildSkills certification system creates a coherent pathway from training to competence validation.
Exploiting the Certification Framework
The BuildSkills Academy Certification Framework has been designed as a practical tool that can be used and further developed beyond the project consortium.
Certification bodies may use the framework as a reference for developing competence-based certification schemes for construction professionals, following the principles of ISO/IEC 17024 for certification of persons.
At the same time, VET providers can align their training programmes with the competence requirements defined in the certification schemes and integrate the BuildEnrichedSkills Methodology (BESM) into their curricula thus ensuring the provision of the emerging skills needed by the sector.
Through this wider adoption, the framework can support greater transparency in competence recognition, stronger links between training and certification, and the continuous upskilling of the construction workforce.
Benefits for the construction ecosystem
The BuildSkills Academy certification system has been designed to support multiple stakeholders across the construction ecosystem.
For professionals:
validation of competences through a structured assessment process
improved visibility of skills in the labour market
clearer competence requirements linked to labour market needs
alignment of curricula with recognised certification schemes
For certification bodies:
a structured framework for developing and implementing certification schemes
Supporting the transformation of the construction sector
By establishing a transparent system for competence certification, the BuildSkills Academy CoVE contributes to:
strengthening quality standards in construction
supporting upskilling and reskilling of the workforce
enhancing mobility and recognition of skills
facilitating the green and digital transition of the sector
The Certification system developed under the project represents an important step toward building a future-ready construction workforce in Europe.
https://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Certification_system_post.png10801080akvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lthttps://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/buildskills-main.pngakvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lt2026-03-23 11:42:482026-03-23 11:47:55Building trust in green and digital skills for construction professionals: the BuildSkills Academy Certification System
The BuildSkills Academy CoVE is pleased to organize a Masterclass entitled “The Pact for Skills and what new skills will drive the twin transition?”, taking place on 18 and 19 June 2026. The event will be held physically in Brussels, hosted at the premises of the FIEC – European Construction Industry Federation.
As a Centre of Vocational Excellence (CoVE) BuildSkills Academy is dedicated to strengthening vocational education and training (VET) systems in the construction sector. Our mission is to equip professionals with the green and digital skills needed to support the twin transition toward a more sustainable and digitalized construction industry.
This distinguished Masterclass is co-organised in close collaboration with FIEC, coordinator of the Pact for Skills in Construction, and will bring together a prominent assembly of industry leaders, VET providers, policymakers, and skills experts from across Europe. The event will serve as a strategic platform for:
Insightful dialogue on evolving skills intelligence and labour market foresight
Exchange of innovative practices in workforce transformation and capacity building
Advancing approaches to apprenticeships, lifelong learning, and skills recognition
Identifying concrete pathways for large-scale upskilling and reskilling across the European construction ecosystem
Through high-level deliberations, peer learning, and curated networking opportunities, participants will contribute to shaping a shared European vision for skills development, reinforcing the resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the construction sector.
The working language of the event will be English.
Stakeholders interested in joining the Masterclass online are warmly invited to complete a short registration form here:
https://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/1st-masterclass-post.png10801080akvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lthttps://buildskillsacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/buildskills-main.pngakvile.andriuskaite@linpra.lt2026-03-19 13:27:142026-05-04 12:36:46Masterclass “The Pact for Skills and what new skills will drive the twin transition?”
This advanced course explores how digital transformation – particularly through artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) – can accelerate sustainability goals in the built environment. By analyzing real-world cases, focusing on practical AI/ML techniques (supervised vs. unsupervised learning), and introducing basic NLP (Transformers, vector databases), participants will gain the multidisciplinary skill set required to excel in sustainability-focused digital projects.
SKILLS:
• Data wrangling & exploratory analysis (Python/R) • Supervised & unsupervised model design • Introductory NLP prompt engineering & vector DB querying • Sustainability impact appraisal & stakeholder communication • Team-based agile project management
The course provides a comprehensive understanding of the transition from linear economic models to sustainable, circular systems. It explores sustainable development principles, climate change effects, and policy frameworks for a circular economy. Students learn to analyze waste fluxes and develop sustainability strategies using tools like Circularity Compass, Circular Strategy Scanner, and Life Cycle Assessment. The course also covers waste management challenges like urban planning and stakeholder engagement. It also emphasizes corporate sustainability and circularity, focusing on ESG reporting, SDG integration, and circular business models. A final project presentation equips students with analytical, strategic, and communication skills for careers in corporate environmental responsibility and waste management.
SKILLS:
• Analytical Skills – Assessing circular economy principles, waste management strategies, and sustainability policies. • Systems Thinking – Understanding the interconnection of waste flows, business models, and sustainability strategies. • Stakeholder Engagement – Developing collaboration strategies to involve key actors in circular initiatives. • Sustainability Reporting – Understanding ESG frameworks, SDG integration, and corporate sustainability reporting. • Impact Assessment & Data Analysis – Applying KPIs and LCA tools to measure circular economy success. • Business Model Development – Designing circular business strategies to drive sustainability transitions.
BuildSkills Academy partners meet in Brussels to advance project implementation and prepare the final phase
/in News, UncategorizedOn 17 June 2026, the BuildSkills Academy consortium gathered in Brussels for its annual General Coordination Meeting, hosted by our partners from the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) at the Cyprus Permanent Representation to the European Union. The meeting brought together project partners from across Europe to review progress achieved during the third year of implementation, assess ongoing activities, and coordinate the next steps towards the project’s successful completion.
Throughout the day, partners reviewed progress across all project work packages, celebrating key milestones while identifying priorities for the coming months. Discussions covered project management, communication and dissemination, stakeholder engagement, certification, pilot implementation, and the long-term sustainability of BuildSkills Academy. Particular attention was given to ensuring that all remaining activities stay on track ahead of the project’s final implementation period.
Among the key topics discussed were the completion of Work Package 2, continued implementation of pilot training courses in six countries, further development and exploitation of the Certification Framework, and preparations for the project’s governance and business models that will support the long-term sustainability of BuildSkills Academy beyond the project’s lifetime. Partners also reviewed progress against communication and stakeholder engagement KPIs, discussed website developments, and agreed on actions to further strengthen dissemination and collaboration with external stakeholders across Europe.
The consortium also confirmed the roadmap for the months ahead, including the completion of additional pilot courses, upcoming Masterclasses in Germany and Italy, continued stakeholder engagement activities, and preparations for the final project event planned for early 2027 in Brussels. Partners reaffirmed their shared commitment to delivering high-quality results that support the green and digital transition of the European construction sector through innovative vocational education, certification, and stronger cooperation between industry and training providers.
The meeting once again demonstrated the strength of the BuildSkills Academy partnership and its collaborative approach to developing future-oriented skills solutions for the construction ecosystem. With important milestones already achieved and the final project phase now underway, the consortium continues working together to ensure that the project’s results deliver lasting value for learners, educators, businesses, and the wider construction sector across Europe.
BuildSkills Academy Masterclass Brought Together European Stakeholders to Shape the Future Skills Agenda for Construction
/in Conference, NewsThe first BuildSkills Academy Masterclass “The Pact for Skills and What New Skills Will Drive the Twin Transition?” brought together more than 100 participants onsite and online from across Europe to discuss how the construction sector can address emerging skills needs and prepare its workforce for the green and digital transitions.
Organised by the BuildSkills Academy, coordinated by Cleantech Bulgaria, together with the European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC), the event was hosted in Brussels on 18 and 19 June 2026. It gathered representatives from European institutions, industry organisations, vocational education and training (VET) providers, higher education institutions, research organisations, certification bodies, social partners, and Centres of Vocational Excellence.
Across seven thematic panels, 24 speakers representing leading European organisations shared insights, good practices, and practical solutions for developing a future-ready construction workforce.
Addressing the Skills Challenge of the Twin Transition
The discussions highlighted the key challenges facing the sector:
A common message emerged throughout the Masterclass: skills development is not only an education challenge – it is a strategic priority for Europe’s competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience.
Exploring the Future Construction Skills
The Masterclass followed a comprehensive approach, moving from European policy priorities to practical solutions and collaborative action.
Starting from the European Skills Policy and Strategic Vision for the Construction Sector, participants examined the Future Skills Needs for the Built Environment and the Innovative Training Solutions and Skills Development Pathways showcasing the BuildSkills Academy CoVE solutions and those of the Construction Blueprint. The discussion moved From Strategy to Implementation focusing on Scaling Skills Development Across Europe. Best Practices in Green and Digital Skills Development have been also shared.
The second day focused on Recognising, Validating and Certifying Skills for the Twin Transition, exploring how micro-credentials, apprenticeships, and transitional skills certification, can make skills more visible, trusted, and portable.
The Masterclass concluded with the Collaborative Action Lab aiming at Designing the Future of Skills Development, where participants worked together to identify challenges, opportunities, and priorities related to skills recognition, training innovation, and future cooperation.
All presentations delivered during the Masterclass are available here.
The BuildSkills Academy team thanks FIEC, all speakers, moderators, and participants for their valuable contributions and commitment to advancing skills development for a more sustainable, digital, and resilient construction sector.
Exploring BuildSkills Academy Solutions
The Masterclass demonstrated the importance of collaboration and shared action in building a skilled and resilient construction workforce.
Stakeholders are invited to visit and explore BuildSkills Academy resources, tools, and methodologies developed to support skills intelligence, training innovation, and lifelong learning in construction. These include the BuildEnrichedSkills Methodology (BESM) and the tailor-made Digital platform, enriched VET courses, and certification approaches designed for training providers, companies, and other actors across the construction ecosystem.
Participants and interested organisations are also encouraged to join the BuildSkills Community and contribute to a growing European network supporting vocational excellence, innovation, and skills development for the twin transition.
What’s Next?
The Brussels Masterclass is the first in a series of BuildSkills Academy Masterclasses aimed at fostering dialogue, sharing good practices, and supporting the implementation of skills solutions for the construction sector.
Two additional Masterclasses will take place later this year, providing further opportunities for stakeholders across Europe to exchange experiences and contribute to shaping the future of construction skills.
The first one will focus on “How sustainable construction will impact the construction sector in the future?” and will be conducted in hybrid format in Berlin, Germany as well as online on 17 – 18 September 2026. The event will be co-organized by the German Energy Agency (dena). Тhis masterclass will explore how sustainable construction is changing the way buildings are designed, built, used and reused across Europe. Participants will discover how green and digital transition is reshaping the sector and creating new demands for skills, training and collaboration.
Registration for online participation is already open: REGISTER HERE.
On 8 and 9 October 2026 we’ll have the masterclass on “How to stimulate the interest of young people for taking career in construction?”co-organized by Formedil. The event will be conducted also in hybrid format – in Bologna, Italy during the SAIE Bologna 2026, as well as online. It will explore how innovation, sustainability and inclusive workplaces can make construction careers more attractive to young people. Inspired by entrepreneurial examples from ANCE Giovani, the event will focus on youth engagement and future careers in construction.
Registration for online participation is already open: REGISTER HERE.
Follow us for more details!
Deliverable 3.4 | Assessment of the Strategic Fit of the Certification Framework in the Partner Countries
/in DocumentsAssessment of the Strategic Fit of the Certification Framework in the Partner Countries
This deliverable presents the strategic assessment of the BuildSkills Academy Framework for Transitional Skills Certification, evaluating its relevance, feasibility, and potential for adoption across the six partner countries. Through an independent review conducted by the External Quality Assessment Panel (EQAP) and a series of national stakeholder consultations, the report examines how the certification framework aligns with European quality assurance standards, national vocational education and training (VET) systems, and the evolving skills needs of the construction sector.
The assessment confirms the framework’s strong strategic fit with European policy priorities related to green and digital transitions, lifelong learning, and workforce mobility. It highlights broad stakeholder support for a common European certification approach that promotes transparency, quality assurance, and cross-border recognition of skills. The report also identifies key opportunities for further enhancement, including implementation support for VET providers, stronger alignment with national qualification systems, digital certification solutions, and measures to strengthen employer recognition and trust. Overall, the findings demonstrate the framework’s potential to become a scalable and transferable model for certifying transitional skills in the construction sector and beyond.
D3.4_BSA_Certif.-Framework-AssessmentDeliverable 1.3 | External Quality Assessment Report by M36
/in DocumentsExternal Quality Assessment Report on the BuildSkills Certification Framework (M36)
This deliverable presents the second independent quality assessment conducted by the External Quality Assessment Panel (EQAP) during months 25–36 of the BuildSkills Academy project. The review focuses on one of the project’s key achievements: the Framework for Transitional Skills Certification, developed in accordance with the ISO/IEC 17024:2012 standard to support the recognition and validation of green and digital skills in the construction sector across Europe.
The report documents the verification process undertaken by an international panel of experts, including the assessment methodology, stakeholder consultations, and detailed evaluation of the framework’s quality assurance mechanisms, transparency, impartiality, and applicability across different national contexts. The findings confirm that the certification framework is robust, credible, and well aligned with European quality assurance principles, offering a scalable model for certifying transitional skills and supporting learner mobility, employer confidence, and cross-border recognition of competencies. The report also provides recommendations for further refinement and future implementation to maximise the framework’s impact and adoption throughout Europe.
D1.3_BSA_External-quality-assessment-report_M36BuildSkills Certification Framework validated by stakeholders across Europe
/in DeliverablesThe BuildSkills Academy has successfully completed a series of national Country Round Tables dedicated to the verification of its Certification Framework for transitional (green and digital) skills in the construction sector.
The discussions brought together stakeholders from vocational education and training (VET), industry, certification bodies, public authorities, and academia across Bulgaria, Italy, Lithuania, Cyprus, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The aim was to assess the framework’s structure, feasibility, and relevance, while collecting practical feedback to support its further development and implementation.
Strong validation of quality and relevance
Across all participating countries, stakeholders positively evaluated the framework as:
The importance of independent certification and objective assessment was consistently highlighted as a key factor in building trust among employers and learners.
Supporting European skills recognition
Participants emphasised the added value of a common European approach, noting that the framework can:
At the same time, the framework was seen as a tool to help VET providers update curricula and align training offers with emerging green and digital skills.
Key recommendations for implementation
Stakeholders also identified several important conditions for successful implementation:
A step toward a trusted European reference
The outcomes of the Country Round Tables confirm that the BuildSkills Certification Framework has strong potential to become a reliable and widely recognised reference for skills in the construction sector.
The feedback collected will directly support the refinement of the framework and its future uptake across Europe.
Deliverable 3.2 | 12 courses certified
/in DocumentsCertification of 12 BuildSkills Academy Training Courses
This deliverable presents the certification process and outcomes for the twelve training courses developed within the BuildSkills Academy project. Applying the certification scheme established under Deliverable 3.1, all course syllabi and training materials underwent a rigorous assessment and certification procedure based on internationally recognised quality principles and alignment with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). The report describes the governance structure, assessment methodology, quality assurance mechanisms, and certification procedures that ensured the courses meet high academic, pedagogical, and professional standards. As a result, all twelve BuildSkills Academy courses were successfully certified, confirming their readiness for implementation and their contribution to high-quality green and digital skills development in the construction sector.
D3.2_BSA_12-Courses-Certified_for-the-websiteBuilding trust in green and digital skills for construction professionals: the BuildSkills Academy Certification System
/in Deliverables, NewsEurope’s construction sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the green transition, digitalisation, and new performance standards for buildings.
To support this transition, the BuildSkills Academy project has developed a comprehensive certification system for transitional skills in the built environment, designed to strengthen the recognition of professional competences and support workforce upskilling across the sector.
This system consists of two key components:
Together, they establish a structured and transparent approach for assessing and recognising competences in the construction sector.
The Certification Framework: a common foundation
The Framework for Transitional Skills Certification provides the overall structure and rules for the certification of people working in the construction sector.
Developed in alignment with the principles of ISO/IEC 17024, the framework sets out the general requirements and procedures that certification bodies should follow when assessing and certifying professional competences.
The framework defines:
By establishing these principles, the framework helps ensure that certification processes are credible, consistent and transparent.
Certification Schemes: translating the framework into practice
While the Certification Framework provides the overall structure and serves mainly the purposes of inspiring certification organizations and VET providers across Europe to integrate this skills recognition approach in their offers, the BuildSkills Academy partners have also applied this process in practice and developed a set of specific certification schemes.
Certification scheme for curricula and training materials
This scheme focuses on the quality and relevance of vocational education and training (VET) programmes. It establishes a structured process through which curricula and training materials can be evaluated and validated to ensure that they:
Through this scheme, training providers can demonstrate that their programmes are fully aligned with the competence-based approach promoted by the project, creating a stronger link between training provision and competence certification.
Certification schemes for individuals
In addition to validating training programmes, the BuildSkills Academy project has developed 12 certification schemes for individuals, targeting key professional profiles in the construction sector. These schemes define the requirements for certifying the competences of professionals and workers, including:
Certification is granted to individuals who successfully complete the assessment process conducted by a certification body operating in accordance with the principles of ISO/IEC 17024 for the certification of persons.
Through these schemes, the BuildSkills Academy certification system enables professionals to demonstrate their competence in key transitional skills needed for the evolving construction sector.
Connecting certification with VET
A distinctive feature of the BuildSkills Academy certification system is its strong commitment to updating VET offers for construction professionals.
Candidates for certification are expected to complete training courses enriched through the BuildEnrichedSkills Methodology (BESM) developed within the project. This innovative tool allows VET providers to enrich their training courses with competence-based learning outcomes, ensuring that training reflects the evolving green and digital skills required in the built environment.
Through this integration, the BuildSkills certification system creates a coherent pathway from training to competence validation.
Exploiting the Certification Framework
The BuildSkills Academy Certification Framework has been designed as a practical tool that can be used and further developed beyond the project consortium.
Certification bodies may use the framework as a reference for developing competence-based certification schemes for construction professionals, following the principles of ISO/IEC 17024 for certification of persons.
At the same time, VET providers can align their training programmes with the competence requirements defined in the certification schemes and integrate the BuildEnrichedSkills Methodology (BESM) into their curricula thus ensuring the provision of the emerging skills needed by the sector.
Through this wider adoption, the framework can support greater transparency in competence recognition, stronger links between training and certification, and the continuous upskilling of the construction workforce.
Benefits for the construction ecosystem
The BuildSkills Academy certification system has been designed to support multiple stakeholders across the construction ecosystem.
For professionals:
For employers:
For training providers:
For certification bodies:
Supporting the transformation of the construction sector
By establishing a transparent system for competence certification, the BuildSkills Academy CoVE contributes to:
The Certification system developed under the project represents an important step toward building a future-ready construction workforce in Europe.
Masterclass “The Pact for Skills and what new skills will drive the twin transition?”
/in Conference, News18 – 19 June 2026
FIEC premises, Brussels, Belgium
The BuildSkills Academy CoVE is pleased to organize a Masterclass entitled “The Pact for Skills and what new skills will drive the twin transition?”, taking place on 18 and 19 June 2026. The event will be held physically in Brussels, hosted at the premises of the FIEC – European Construction Industry Federation.
As a Centre of Vocational Excellence (CoVE) BuildSkills Academy is dedicated to strengthening vocational education and training (VET) systems in the construction sector. Our mission is to equip professionals with the green and digital skills needed to support the twin transition toward a more sustainable and digitalized construction industry.
This distinguished Masterclass is co-organised in close collaboration with FIEC, coordinator of the Pact for Skills in Construction, and will bring together a prominent assembly of industry leaders, VET providers, policymakers, and skills experts from across Europe. The event will serve as a strategic platform for:
Through high-level deliberations, peer learning, and curated networking opportunities, participants will contribute to shaping a shared European vision for skills development, reinforcing the resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the construction sector.
The working language of the event will be English.
Stakeholders interested in joining the Masterclass online are warmly invited to complete a short registration form here:
REGISTRATION
Agenda as well as access details for the virtual sessions will be communicated to all registered participants in due course.
For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at:
communication@cleantech.bg
Digitalisation and Sustainable Development: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Tools for Sustainability
/in Courses, EQF level 7EQF level: 7
Developed by: Athens University of Economy and Business
Course Duration: 78–91 hours/13 weeks
Format: Online (Synchronous)
Language: English
This advanced course explores how digital transformation – particularly through artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) – can accelerate sustainability goals in the built environment. By analyzing real-world cases, focusing on practical AI/ML techniques (supervised vs. unsupervised learning), and introducing basic NLP (Transformers, vector databases), participants will gain the multidisciplinary skill set required to excel in sustainability-focused digital projects.
SKILLS:
• Data wrangling & exploratory analysis (Python/R)
• Supervised & unsupervised model design
• Introductory NLP prompt engineering & vector DB querying
• Sustainability impact appraisal & stakeholder communication
• Team-based agile project management
SYLLABUS:
Annex-12.2.-Digitalization_SyllabusCERTIFICATE:
Annex-12.1.-Digitalization_CertificateCERTIFICATION SCHEME FOR INDIVIDUALS:
Ind.cert_.Digitalization-expert-in-SustainabilityCircular Economy and Waste Management
/in Courses, EQF level 6EQF level: 6
Developed by: Athens University of Economy and Business
Course Duration: 30 hours
Format: Online (Synchronous)
Language: English
The course provides a comprehensive understanding of the transition from linear economic models to sustainable, circular systems. It explores sustainable development principles, climate change effects, and policy frameworks for a circular economy. Students learn to analyze waste fluxes and develop sustainability strategies using tools like Circularity Compass, Circular Strategy Scanner, and Life Cycle Assessment. The course also covers waste management challenges like urban planning and stakeholder engagement. It also emphasizes corporate sustainability and circularity, focusing on ESG reporting, SDG integration, and circular business models. A final project presentation equips students with analytical, strategic, and communication skills for careers in corporate environmental responsibility and waste management.
SKILLS:
• Analytical Skills – Assessing circular economy principles, waste management strategies, and sustainability policies.
• Systems Thinking – Understanding the interconnection of waste flows, business models, and sustainability strategies.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Developing collaboration strategies to involve key actors in circular initiatives.
• Sustainability Reporting – Understanding ESG frameworks, SDG integration, and corporate sustainability reporting.
• Impact Assessment & Data Analysis – Applying KPIs and LCA tools to measure circular economy success.
• Business Model Development – Designing circular business strategies to drive sustainability transitions.
SYLLABUS:
Annex-14.2.Circular-Econ.-Waste-Manag._SyllabusCERTIFICATE:
Annex-14.1.Circular-Econ.-Waste-Manag._CertificateCERTIFICATION SCHEME FOR INDIVIDUALS:
Ind.cert_.Circular-Economy-and-Waste-Management