Career insight - Bonanza for asset management
In
the world of construction, no matter whether you approach the industry
as an architect, an engineer, a construction manager or builder, it is
important to understand where the real growth is. And while working on
new projects may seem glamorous, it is in the field of assets management
that some of the most exciting opportunities are emerging.
It is an industry area that also provides enormous diversity – from managing an international portfolio of flagship buildings for a bank, to looking after the sensitive work required in managing heritage properties or even more diverse projects like sporting facilities or fleets of vehicles.
Employment opportunities and, indeed, the economic base for this area of the industry, outstrip new construction by a significant margin.
In response to that need, UniSA has developed a new masters program that will help to develop the everyday architect, engineer, interior architect, building or construction graduate into someone capable of managing a serious portfolio of assets. The Master of Facilities and Asset Management program combines business and construction courses to equip graduates with the range of skills to work in the burgeoning field.
Sustainable construction is another significant area. It is little wonder – with climate change, greenhouse emissions and finite resources now so central to the sustainable development debate – that the Building Code of Australia is changing.
Changes to the code have just been released and will begin to be applied to commercial construction within the next few months. Understanding these directions is vital across all areas of the industry but especially for construction managers charged with the responsibility for implementing changes. And while knowing what is demanded by law is one thing, there is now huge growth potential in sustainable construction and finding innovative low energy solutions for the future.
More information about the Building Code of Australia will be available in a series of lectures being held at UniSA and run by Associate Professor George Zillante, telephone +61 (0)8 8302 2379 for details.
More information about the new degree of Master of Facilities and Asset Management is available from Stephen Pullen +61 (0)8 8302 2753.