When you think of the industries that technology has transformed in this century, construction may not be the first that comes to mind. After all, construction has long been associated with manual labor and two-dimensional blueprints. However, that’s the old way of doing things as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are among the many new tools of the trade.
From building information modeling (BIM) software to AR/VR in construction jobs, this industry has been reshaped. The sector is more efficient than ever, but an entirely new class of talent is needed to utilize the latest technology. Here’s a look at how construction has gone virtual and how your firm can land the digital construction workforce it needs.
How Virtual Tech Is Being Used in Construction
Virtual construction technology changes traditional workflows and offers new levels of insights into building projects. For example, instead of drafting blueprints, you can use BIM software to create a building’s digital twin. This allows you to virtually interact with the structure as if it were real.
When a BIM model is fed into AR and VR systems, construction stakeholders can experience the design in an immersive fashion. Teams can virtually walk through a building before a single brick is laid, identifying potential issues and collaborating on design elements in real time.
An alternative to AR/VR in construction is mixed reality. These tools combine real-world elements with virtual representations to perform remote inspections or to visualize designs. Whichever technology a firm chooses, these digital tools help identify issues before they become problems on job sites. The virtual approach reduces time spent on rework, shortens build times, and lowers development costs.
The Talent Shift: New Roles, New Skills
As with any industry, the wave of new technology in construction is only effective when skilled personnel use it. That’s why the industry is undergoing a significant talent shift. In particular, there is a surge in demand for BIM specialists, AR/VR engineers, and digital construction managers.
BIM specialists create and manage the detailed 3D models and digital twins that form the foundation of modern construction projects. AR/VR engineers develop and deploy the immersive experiences used for design reviews, training, and on-site assistance. Digital construction managers oversee projects in the virtual realm, much like job site leaders.
Some firms are hiring for hybrid roles, where candidates need both traditional construction experience and the ability to utilize the latest digital tools. In addition, there’s a growing need for tech-savvy project managers and field supervisors fluent in traditional construction tools and modern technology.
How MRINetwork Helps Construction Firms Stay Ahead
Demand for construction tech talent is high, creating a highly competitive market. Some long-standing construction firms are having trouble recruiting and hiring the new breed of worker. They may not feel comfortable evaluating a candidate’s technical abilities in this rapidly modernizing industry. Specialized recruitment partners such as MRINetwork are here to help with all of these recruitment challenges.
MRINetwork provides construction companies access to a deep talent pool with candidates who operate at the intersection of construction and technology. Identifying individuals with construction experience and knowledge of AR, VR, and BIM software is challenging. Our specialized recruiters cultivate multiple talent networks to deliver these hard-to-find candidates to the construction firms that need them the most.
At MRINetwork, we focus on helping clients find forward-thinking leaders to guide virtual construction adoption. We know there’s more to it than just investing in technology, so we look for visionary candidates who can champion change and foster a culture of digital innovation. Our track record proves that MRINewtork excels at recruiting executives and senior managers with the strategic foresight and technological acumen necessary to lead the transition to virtual construction technology.
The Future of Construction Is (Virtually) Here
The construction industry stands at an inflection point. BIM and AR/VR are here, and the firms implementing these technological tools gain a competitive advantage. However, investing in tech is only one part of the equation. You also need tech-savvy talent to manage these breakthrough systems. The structures of tomorrow will be built by those who can expertly wield these new tools and integrate them into successful projects.
Don’t let the challenges of a competitive talent marketplace hold your firm back. MRINetwork offers a rich talent pipeline to tech-savvy workers and construction leaders. Our specialized recruiters can help locate the candidates you need to take your projects to the next level. To learn more, find an MRINetwork office near you today.
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