Are we ready for 2050?
Posted: 29th August 2024

Henry Fenby-Taylor
Chair, 2050 Group
The construction industry is undergoing significant change. New technologies, regulatory requirements and working practices are changing the way the industry works.
The CIC 2050 group exists to be the voice of those people who will be in the industry in 2050. This means ensuring that the industry is ready to meet its obligations to be resilient to the changes of the climate crisis, but it also means making sure that the industry is inclusive and thriving. As the new chair of the CIC 2050 Group, I am honoured to lead this group of early career professionals dedicated to driving this change. Our mission is clear: to shape an industry that is sustainable, inclusive, and prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
The Power of Collaboration
The built environment brings together professionals from various disciplines, including architects, engineers, planners, and sustainability experts. While each discipline offers valuable insights, the real power lies in collaboration. The 2050 Group provides a platform where professionals can share knowledge, challenge traditional practices, and develop strategies that address the industry’s evolving needs. This collaboration is essential for creating solutions that are practical, innovative, and responsive to the future workforce.
Leading Strategic Initiatives
A core objective of the 2050 Group is to be a leader in thought and strategy within the industry. In our previous work, we contributed to important reports like the Low Carbon Construction IGT Final Report and the UK-GBC “Plan for Growth” report. These efforts demonstrate the value of having a diverse group of professionals who can offer fresh perspectives and forward-thinking ideas.
As we look to the future, the 2050 Group will continue to play a crucial role in guiding the industry’s direction. By reviewing and developing strategic plans, we aim to anticipate future challenges and propose proactive measures. Our work is focused on ensuring that the industry is not just reactive but is actively shaping its future.
Meeting the Needs of the Future Workforce
The construction industry of 2050 will be vastly different from today’s. It’s vital that we attract a diverse range of young people to the sector, as their ideas, energy, and perspectives will be key to meeting the challenges ahead. By increasing diversity and encouraging more young people to enter the industry, we can ensure that the sector is equipped to meet the needs of future workers and the communities they will serve.
Shaping an Inclusive and Sustainable Industry
As we move towards 2050, the construction industry will face numerous changes and challenges. The 2050 Group’s role is to ensure that these changes are guided by principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and collaboration. We are committed to creating an industry that is not only carbon-neutral but also resilient and responsive to the needs of its future workforce.
By fostering a collaborative environment and engaging a diverse range of voices, we can help shape a future where the built environment meets the needs of everyone involved—those who work in it, live in it, and benefit from it. The work of the 2050 Group is not just important; it is essential. By working together across disciplines, we can ensure that the construction industry of 2050 is ready to meet the demands of a changing world.
Let us all commit to this vision, knowing that together, we can build a better, more sustainable, and inclusive future for the construction industry. If you wish to have the voices of young professionals involved in a project or event you are organising please visit us here.

Henry Fenby-Taylor
Chair, 2050 Group
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