Key findings on skills gaps in the green, digital, and circular transition of the construction sector, in the framework of the European EXCEL4HOUSING4.0 project , in which PEDMEDE participates

Within the framework of the European  EXCEL4HOUSING4.0 project, in which PEDMEDE participates, a series of online roundtables were held to identify the skills needs and gaps in the European construction sector in relation to the green, digital, and circular transition.

Around 100 participants from organizations, universities, businesses, and vocational training institutions across Europe took part in the discussions, alongside PEDMEDE guests representing the construction sector.

The results of the roundtables have now been published and are presented in the following reports:

• Key findings related to skills needs and gaps in Energy Efficiency and Net Carbon Housing
  The report highlights that the skills gap constitutes a major barrier to achieving the decarbonisation targets of buildings. Particular emphasis is placed on the need for interdisciplinary skills that combine technical knowledge with understanding of regulatory frameworks, as well as on training in quality assurance and performance verification to bridge the gap between designed and actual energy performance of buildings.
• Key findings related to skills needs and gaps in Digital Transition and Digitalization
  The report notes that the digital transition in construction is not only about adopting new technologies but primarily involves an organizational and cultural transformation of the sector. The need for strengthening basic digital skills, reskilling programs, and new professional roles capable of managing data, BIM, and digital tools is emphasized.
• Key findings related to skills needs and gaps in Circular Economy
  This report focuses on the challenges and opportunities of the circular economy in the construction sector, highlighting that the transition to circular models requires new skills across the entire value chain, reinforcement of education and training, and dissemination of good practices and innovative solutions.

The conclusions of the discussions will be used in the next stages of the project for the development of innovative educational programs and training methodologies, contributing to the strengthening of the skills needed for the green and digital transition of the European construction ecosystem.