STEM and Construction: A Perfect Pairing

08/11/2024

Happy World STEM Day! STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. All of these drive innovation and progress across various industries. When put together with creativity STEM has been central to human development. The Construction industry represents the coming together of all of these fields to create the built environment. It’s safe to say that without STEM, the world as we know it would not exist.

STEM Revolutionises Construction

  1. Advanced Materials: In the industry’s quest for stronger, lighter, more durable and more sustainable materials, STEM has been crucial. Materials, such as engineered wood products (used on our St Benedict’s School project), composite materials, and self-healing concrete, are transforming the way buildings are designed and constructed.
  2. Building Information Modelling (BIM): BIM is a digital representation of a building, integrating architecture, engineering, and construction data. It allows for better planning, coordination, and collaboration among project teams, reducing errors and waste. STEM professionals play a crucial role in developing and implementing BIM software and workflows. At Jerram Falkus Construction we have been working closely with BIM consultants to ensure that we can apply the principals across all of our projects. For us, BIM is the norm.
  3. Sustainable Construction Practices: The monitoring of our changing climate and the charge to prevent further degradation has been led by STEM professionals. STEM research is driving the development of sustainable construction practices. These include energy-efficient buildings, green roofs, and waste reduction strategies. One solution is Passivhaus construction which takes a fabric and first approach . Jerram Falkus Construction are passionate about delivering highly sustainable and Passivhaus schemes such as our work at Cannock Mill and Melfield Gardens. STEM professionals are working to develop new technologies and materials that can help reduce the environmental impact of the construction industry.
  4. Smart Infrastructure: STEM research is enabling the development of smart infrastructure, which uses technology to improve efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. This includes smart grids, smart buildings, and transportation systems.

Shetland Road

STEM Careers in Construction

With all the above in mind, it is easy to see why STEM professionals are in high demand in the construction industry. Careers can include:

  • Construction managers, who oversee the planning, scheduling, and execution of construction projects. They coordinate the STEM professionals and others to deliver innovative and sustainable schemes.
  • Structural engineers, who design and analyse the structural components of buildings.
  • Quantity Surveyors, who ensure that projects are costed appropriately and manage the finances of a scheme
  • Programming and Logistics professionals, who plan, coordinate, and execute the movement of resources to meet project deadlines and budgets.
  • Architects, who design buildings and other structures, considering factors such as aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
  • Civil engineers, who design and oversee the construction of infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and dams.
  • BIM professionals, who develop and implement BIM software and workflows.
  • Materials engineers, who develop and test new materials for use in construction.
  • …And many many more!

As the construction industry continues to evolve, the demand for STEM professionals will only grow. By combining their knowledge and skills, STEM professionals can help to create more sustainable, efficient, and innovative buildings and infrastructure.

 

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