The University of Wolverhampton (pilot) project was initiated earlier this year. The vision for this initiative is one of connectedness, conversations and development of long-lasting relationships with all our accredited universities and institutions through an effective engagement model. We want to pave the way for the workforce of the future and build the talent pipeline for leadership in the Construction and Built Environment sector.

Our partnership with the University of Wolverhampton is unique because we have invested in a physical space at their School of Architecture and Built Environment (SoABE). This space will give students, academics and other stakeholders the opportunity to learn more about the CIOB. CIOB branding will be displayed in a teaching room on site, a dedicated touch point location in the atrium and digitally on screens dotted across the entire campus. This will act as a reminder to stakeholders engaging with the campus that the CIOB is the leading body for the Built Environment and becoming a member of such a historical and dedicated membership body brings about many advantages. Furthermore, the SoABE is a global centre of excellence and it holds many transnational education (TNE) partnerships across the globe, thus creating a stronger regional, national and global partnership for the CIOB.  

The major ambition of this project is to test out and establish a set model of engagement for students, graduates and academics at all levels in order to increase the pool of members and build their talent through tailored measures.

Some measures will include:

• The introduction of routine tailor-made engagements at local or individual levels. This will encompass activities such as routes to membership forums, engaging with membership issues, launching a series of CPD workshops including employer site visits and collaborating on national and global conferences.
• Launching a toolbox of communication paths that will proactively create a community of peers who are encouraged to share thought leadership, professional practice and shared experiences in Built Environment education and research.
• The clear definition of routes to membership for our academic community, most of whom originate from the industry, bringing along years of experience, knowledge and ample competence. A Chartered CIOB academic will not only stand out amongst their peers but will also contribute to the translation of continuous professional development into teaching and learning, thereby building an impact in student satisfaction rates and institutional level pegging.
• Building a closer-knit community of local CIOB hubs, providing access to CIOB hub staff and other resources.

The CIOB will be able to work collaboratively with education establishments and industry to develop the research and innovation projects that will transform our industry for the future. I am positive that this intervention will bring about a greater sense of belonging, inclusion and opportunity to collaborate and add value to all concerned.

If you feel you have ideas or comments to share, please email us using the email address: [email protected]

If you’d like to find out more about the Wolverhampton Project, please visit the website.