CIOB partners with $10bn New York City Department to upskill workforce

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the New York City Department of Design and Construction (NYC DDC) have joined forces to increase the number of Chartered Construction Managers in New York.

The partnership sets in motion a strong strategic alliance with the North American construction market which is forecast to grow by 40% over the next ten years. “The Department plays a vital role in delivering quality services that ensures one of the world’s most challenging cities keeps pace with the needs of its citizens. New York is a demanding environment and with its long history for iconic construction projects there is a need for skilled professionals to maintain that ambition well into the future,” said Bridget Bartlett, deputy chief executive at the CIOB.

She added; “This agreement is the first of its kind for the CIOB outside of the UK. In the future NYC DDC assessors will be trained to deliver our Professional Review, traditionally a prerequisite for anyone applying to become fully chartered.  Our work with NYC DDC will help their employees make the most of their talent, raise the profile of Chartered Construction Managers across the Atlantic, and promote the value and impact construction management has on society and the economy.”

The CIOB will outline training programmes for NYC DDC employees, and tailor its careers advice and recommendations to suit the requirements of each individual wishing to obtain Chartered status.  Employees will also gain access to the CIOB Continuing Professional Development knowledge base.  Through this portfolio, staff will also have access to qualification workshops on topics such as project management, sustainability, and planning.

Commissioner Feniosky Peña-Mora FCIOB at the NYC Department of Design and Construction said; “Here at DDC, we want to encourage and support every member of our staff to reach their full potential through training and development. Our partnership with CIOB is an important step to helping us achieve this goal and promoting overall growth for our agency.”

NYC DDC is responsible for the design, build and refurbishment of many of the City’s public assets, including parks, courthouses, fire stations, libraries and police precincts. With their assets valued at close to $10 billion, New York itself is forecast to spend over $100bn on construction over the next three years. By establishing this strategic alliance, construction management careers will achieve greater recognition in the North American construction market.