ONE of Scotland’s industry-leading innovation centres has launched a high-tech Future Skills Strategy to put school pupils and students in the driving seat to revolutionise the building industry.

The strategy from the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) will also put the new technology into the hands of industry leaders.

It builds on the success of building information modelling (BIM), which uses various tools to create digital representations of the physical characteristics of various places.

The new initiative is expected to foster partnerships with schools, further education establishments, the public sector and industry.

A range of interactive courses and activities will help widen participation and educate young people about the career opportunities available within the industry, and what those roles could look like in the future.

Rohan Bush, CSIC’s head of public partnerships and future workforce, said: “Simply telling young people that they could have a great future in construction isn’t that effective. But let them play with the tech that will be part of that future, and they come back wanting to know more. We are really excited about this new strategy and the opportunities it offers.

“The increased use of digital technologies is changing how we work, and gives real opportunities to work smarter, efficiently and more sustainably.

“The new programmes also offer those currently working in the industry the opportunity to expand and develop their skills and knowledge.”

CSIC is working with several partners to deliver new activities. The Play with the Future programme will give school pupils the chance to experience the future of construction by utilising pioneering equipment housed in the Innovation Factory.

Other elements will encourage them to consider the design and build aspects of smart homes for an ageing population and all will be delivered in conjunction with Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and Developing the Young Workforce (DYW).

Elaine Ellis, skills planning manager at SDS, said: “We are delighted to be working with Construction Scotland Innovation Centre team to showcase the innovation and skills opportunities within the construction industry.”