Leading the MMC Workforce Through Skills, Talent and Success
Stakeholders outside the world of building point to the benefits of MMC in transforming Irish construction with purposeful leaders and innovators.
A report commissioned by the Expert Group on Future Skill Needs (EGFSN) and conducted by EY has laid out a clear runway for Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) to take off as the methodology driving the Irish construction sector. One of the key takeaways? Get more innovative and driven leaders to lead the way.
EY’s report, surveying organisations across the MMC supply chain, acknowledged the need to transition to MMC to meet the growing demand for infrastructure and housing to support Ireland’s population. But around half of the survey respondents suggested that additional skills were required for leadership and management roles immediately to guide this transition towards modern methods of construction.
As it stands, industry bodies and businesses looking to adopt MMC principles in their day-to-day operations just don’t have the senior talent to do it right.
Annette Hughes, Director of EY Economic Advisory, says that targeted training for employees in senior management positions could “be integral to the increased implementation of MMC practices in long-established organisations.”
Modern Methods of Construction are an attractive proposition for an increasingly digital-focused workforce. An adapted building sector offers opportunities for younger people and a higher proportion of women to take on meaningful roles, with traditional barriers to entry reduced by digitalisation and strategic off-site manufacturing.
The use of digital tools and AI to build homes and infrastructure offers exciting and rewarding careers.
Director of EY Economic Advisory
But it’s not just about getting more people in. It’s about showing people that they have a place at the forefront of Modern Methods of Construction in Ireland, incubating future leaders from the first day of their first role in the industry.
Greater awareness of the opportunities provided by MMC—at second level in particular—as well as a continued focus on changing outdated perceptions of careers in construction will help boost numbers wanting to join the industry.
Director of EY Economic Advisory
It’s up to everyone in the construction sector to get the industry leaders of tomorrow ready for the challenges they may face.
That starts with adopting the MMC methodologies and tools that will define building in Ireland for the next generation.
