Career Compass: Mapping Educational Routes to Built Environment

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02 Sep 2024

7 Min Read

Taylor's Team (Editor)

IN THIS ARTICLE

Lost at what to study? Discover your direction with our Career Compass! Explore opportunities in the Built Environment industry to map your educational path.

The built environment industry encompasses everything that surrounds us, from the buildings we live and work into the infrastructure that supports our daily lives. This field is all about designing, constructing, and maintaining the physical world we inhabit. As our society faces challenges like urbanisation, climate change, and resource scarcity, the built environment industry is more relevant and essential than ever.

What is Built Environment?

But what exactly is built environment, and why should you, as a high schooler or high school graduate, consider a career in this industry? The answer lies in the critical role this industry plays in shaping sustainable, efficient, and liveable spaces. From creating eco-friendly buildings to planning smart cities, professionals in built environment are at the forefront of innovative solutions that address both current and future needs. 

What are the careers in Built Environment?

The built environment industry offers a variety of rewarding career paths, each contributing to the development of a better world. Whether you have a passion for design, engineering, project management, or sustainability, there's a niche for you. Let's explore five exciting careers in built environment and the educational routes to achieving them!

1. Sustainable Architect

Sustainable architect
What does this career do?

A Sustainable Architect designs buildings that are environmentally friendly and resource-efficient throughout their life cycle. These professionals integrate sustainable practices in design, construction, and operation, focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of sustainable materials.

 

Where can you work in this career?

 

Who is this career for? 

This career is ideal for those who are passionate about architecture and sustainability. If you're interested in creating buildings that not only look good but also minimise environmental impact, this role is for you. It appeals to individuals who want to combine creativity with environmental stewardship.

 

What to study for this career?

2. Urban Planner

Urban planner
What does this career do?

An Urban Planner develops plans and programmes for land use in urban areas. They work on creating sustainable, functional, and attractive communities by considering factors like population growth, infrastructure, and environmental impact. They play a crucial role in shaping cities and towns to be more liveable and efficient.

 

Where can you work in this career?
  • AECOM: Known for its planning and design services for urban development and infrastructure projects around the globe.
  • Urban Scale: A Malaysian firm specialising in urban planning and design.
  • Surbana Jurong: An international consultancy recognised for its urban and infrastructure solutions.

 

Who is this career for? 

This career suits individuals who are interested in how cities work and are passionate about making urban areas better places to live. If you enjoy problem-solving, strategic thinking, and have a vision for sustainable urban development, this role is for you.

 

What to study for this career?

3. Smart Building Specialist

Smart building specialist
What does this career do?

A Smart Building Specialist integrates advanced technologies into buildings to make them more intelligent and efficient. They work on systems such as automated lighting, heating, and security, ensuring that buildings are energy-efficient and user-friendly.

 
Where can you work in this career?
  • Siemens: Provides smart building technologies for automation and energy management around the world.
  • Honeywell: Focuses on smart building systems that improve efficiency, security, and comfort.
  • Johnson Controls: Offers advanced building management systems and energy-saving solutions globally.

 

Who is this career for? 

This role is ideal for tech-savvy individuals who are fascinated by the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart technologies. If you enjoy working with cutting-edge tech and improving building efficiency, consider this career path.

 
What to study for this career?

4. Construction Project Manager

Construction project manager
What does this career do?

A Construction Project Manager oversees construction projects from start to finish. They ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This involves coordinating with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients.

 

Where can you work in this career?
  • Bechtel: Manages and builds large-scale infrastructure projects globally, including transportation and energy facilities.
  • Turner Construction: Provides project management and construction services for a range of projects, from commercial buildings to infrastructure.
  • Skanska: Focuses on sustainable building and infrastructure projects, delivering high-quality construction and management services.

 

Who is this career for? 

If you have strong organisational and leadership skills, and enjoy managing complex projects, this career is for you. It suits individuals who are detail-oriented and have a passion for construction and infrastructure development.

 

What to study for this career?

5. Green Building Consultant

Green building consultant
What does this career do?

A Green Building Consultant advises on how to make buildings more sustainable. They conduct environmental impact assessments, recommend sustainable materials and practices, and help buildings achieve green certifications like the Green Building Index (GBI), GreenRE, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method).

 

Where can you work in this career?
  • Arup: Specialises in sustainable design, helping buildings achieve green certifications through eco-friendly practices.
  • WSP: Focuses on improving building sustainability and energy efficiency, guiding projects to attain green certifications.
  • Buro Happold: Advises on sustainable design and environmental performance, assisting projects in securing green certifications.

 

Who is this career for? 

This role is perfect for those who are passionate about sustainability and environmental conservation. If you enjoy consulting and have a strong knowledge of sustainable building practices, this career could be a great fit.

 
What to study for this career?

Conclusion

The built environment industry is dedicated to shaping and enhancing our physical world through sustainable and innovative solutions. Whether you're interested in designing eco-friendly buildings, planning sustainable cities, or integrating smart technologies into infrastructure, there's a path for you in this field. By focusing on the right subjects in high school and pursuing relevant degrees and skills, you can turn your passion for the built environment into a fulfilling career. Remember, the future of our cities and buildings is in your hands, and it's a future that holds immense potential and promise!

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