When it comes to shaping the way people live, work, and play, nothing comes quite close to the Built Environment (BE) sector, which offers a myriad of career opportunities for those who wish to positively impact communities.

From construction and real estate to environment services and security, the BE sector is diverse and dynamic. Against the backdrop of Singapore’s rapid urbanisation and global spotlight on climate change in recent years, BE firms are now expected to work in a swifter, smarter, and more sustainable manner.

While efforts to accelerate the digitalisation of the sector are ongoing, its transformation

can only be completed with the support of a digitally competent, skilled and dedicated workforce.

Fostering appreciation, deepening understanding

Whether you are a student, recent graduate, or mid-career professional, there are various programmes and frameworks in place to support your career journey in the BE sector.

If you are a student who wish to know more about the sector, the iBuildSG BE Formation Programme facilitates that. Through online and face-to-face modules, practical simulations and dialogue sessions, this interactive programme will better prepare you to be job and industry-ready. You can also expect to gain a keener appreciation of the sector and its contributions in building and operating modern Singapore.

Still feeling unsure? Consider taking up an internship at a BE firm. It will expose you to on-the-job demands and opportunities to work on actual projects, which in turn allows you to better evaluate your strengths and interests.

If you are thinking of making a mid-career switch from another sector, don’t let the lack of suitable qualifications deter you. Take a leaf out of the book of Career Conversion Programme participants such as Katheryn Seoh (Kimly Construction) and Mohamad Saifullizan (Lum Chang), who proved that grit and determination are the real prerequisites.

Grooming and recognising leaders

For those looking to take on a leadership role within the BE sector, the BuildSG Leadership Engagement and Development (LEAD) framework aims to support your ambitions.

It consists of three key leadership building platforms, including two bespoke structured training programmes co-developed with Singapore Management University and Singapore University of Technology and Design.

Young working professionals highly motivated to improve and contribute to the transformation of the sector could be part of the BE Young Leaders Programme or BE Future Leaders Network, where they could network with like-minded peers and tap into each other’s BE experience. Find out more about the experience of iBuildSG Young Leaders’ Advocate award recipients, who are actively involved in various platforms such as policy formulation, learning journeys, and corporate social responsibility activities.

Under the BuildSG LEAD Framework, senior BE leaders, whose professions straddle across academia, architects, builders, engineers and developers, are also accorded recognition for their leadership and immense contributions to the sector.

Leaders who have been conferred the title of iBuildSG Distinguished Fellow include (listed in no order of merit): Mr Chia Ngiang Hong (City Developments Limited), Dr Ho Nyok Yong (Samwoh Corporation), Professor Lam Khee Poh (National University of Singapore), Er Lee Chuan Seng (Beca Asia),  Ar Rita Soh (RDC Architects), and Mr Wong Heang Fine (Surbana Jurong).

These industry veterans have pushed the boundaries of sustainability, innovation and research, and are behind some of Singapore’s most significant building projects such as the National Library Building, Surbana Jurong Campus and the restoration of Church of Saints Peter & Paul.

Professionals in the BE sector can upskill by learning to use technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR).

Learn and upskill

There is also always the flexibility of working while learning. A suite of manpower development programmes is in place to cover job placements and attachments, as well as salary support while working. Whether it’s in the area of lift repair and maintenance or  facilities management, training and certification programmes are in place at various skill competency levels to allow those who wish to upgrade to work their way up the ranks.

If you are unsure about where to start, refer to the Skills Framework for Built Environment. The Framework contains information on the BE sector, possible career pathways, skills and competencies required for each job role, and available training programmes which are aligned to the skill needs of the industry.

Ready to take the first step towards a fulfilling and meaningful career in the BE sector? Find out how you can acquire in-demand and emerging skills to kickstart the journey.