University Construction Courses

The government remains committed to encouraging more school leavers to go to university or other forms of higher education, whether academic or vocational. Recent figures show substantial increases in students of all age groups applying for this year's intake. Any new government is unlikely to discourage this trend but is this good news for construction firms who build and maintain the fabric of higher educational establishments?

Undoubtedly, opportunities exist for competitive construction companies. Uncovering university construction opportunities and becoming a serious contender for the business requires a level of commitment and a plan of action.

The Opportunities

There are several government websites dedicated to construction opportunities. As well as 2012 related projects you will find a plethora of new build and re-fit works at colleges up and down the country. As universities aim to provide first year students with onsite accommodation, spend on building and re-fitting halls of residence is one of today's key priorities. Technology labs and teaching environments are also high on the agenda as universities compete for recognition within areas of specialism.

The Skills

Procurement managers look for previous experience within the educational sector; seeking a proven ability to work within an environment where other people carry on their day to day business. Universities are seldom empty, even during holidays; external courses, extra curricula classes and other organisations make use of these buildings all year round so it will be important to minimise disruption, stress and noise to students and teaching staff. Expect to keep costs competitive and participate in a 'beauty parade'. Don't be surprised if the contract negotiations are long and drawn out but once you are a preferred and trusted supplier, you may be awarded contracts going forward.

Specialist Areas

As a government funded project, the university construction project will need to meet strict environmental specifications. Give the university examples of how you have installed energy saving materials/technology in previous projects and, where possible, use reference sites to illustrate success. Examples of how you have worked within confined areas, used new materials, adapted to workplace environments and provided a full range of construction, mechanical, electrical and other skills, will be plus points for your firm.

Partnership Working

Flexibility is the name of the game! University construction will almost never be in isolation. Even on smaller projects you can expect to be working with other construction companies, engineers, designers, architects and, of course, the university's own academic staff and management. In the same way that reference sites illustrate quality of workmanship, why not use other providers to show that you can and do work well in a large team.

And Finally

A small point, but it could be a decider check out whether the university provides courses related to the construction industry! Why not make informal contact with the teaching staff to see if you could get involved should you be awarded the contract? You might be able to organise a seminar or facilitate a walk-round of the site for first year students (subject to health and safety considerations of course!). It's just one way to differentiate yourself from the competition and show commitment to the educational aims of your client.