Off the back of a global pandemic came a host of other obstacles for our industry. Supply chain disruptions, evolving regulations, new building technologies, and workforce shortages have all challenged the residential building sector.

However, these challenges have fuelled a renewed focus on growth through learning and development. Professionals are now seeking innovative ways to upskill, and HIA has led the charge with tailored training and education solutions.

Learning pathways

As anyone in our industry can contest, staying up to date with compliance, workplace health and safety, and green building practices is critical. So ongoing education is no longer optional — it's essential for remaining competitive and relevant.

Companies such as Core Projects have seen success through tailored group training programs. This delivers professional development that directly improves workforce skills and capabilities. When it came to NCC 2022 changes, Core Projects wanted to upskill their team, so they were prepared.

‘Our full communities team participated in an in-depth HIA training session going through the nuts and bolts of the new 7 Star NCC energy-efficiency changes,’ says Nicki Hay, Co-CEO of Core Projects. ‘The session helped our team, who work across land, medium-density, and home packages.

They can now guide our developer partners and purchasers through what these changes will mean for them. It was a great session.’

When Jodie Jeffries from Metricon Group was offered the chance to study, she was keen to take part. 'I've always been a big believer in lifelong learning, no matter what job I've had. I did a building design course through TAFE, which is how I ended up at Metricon. So, when this opportunity came along, I knew it would complement my previous building design course.'

Jodie has been at Metricon for almost nine years, having worked in various roles. Based in the Robina office at the Gold Coast, she started in contracts, then permits and now has a role in estimating.

She loves that Metricon provides a flexible working environment and encourages staff to develop themselves within their roles. Metricon decided to do a group intake and offered their estimators the chance to study a Certificate IV in Building and Construction.

'Metricon values the way HIA supports the industry, so choosing them to educate staff was based on this. We were confident they would provide Metricon employees with the best support and training.'

Set for success

As a Registered Training Organisation provider, HIA has earned a reputation for delivering hands-on, practical education. 'The trainers gave us so many great ways to stay ahead of change in our industry.

They helped us understand product information, guidelines and the new NCC updates. We worked heavily on compliance and Acts, so we knew exactly where to find them and our obligations,' continues Jodie.

'If we were uncertain of anything, the trainers were always there to help.'

Whether you're at the start of your career or looking to expand your skills to run your own business, there's something for everyone. HIA’s programs ensure you gain the knowledge, confidence and expertise needed to succeed.

Career opportunities

The residential building industry offers a range of career paths, and opportunities are continually expanding. HIA's commitment to fostering these careers through education ensures professionals are prepared for the industry's current and future demands.

'It's early days, but it should put me in good standing if I apply for a promotion or another role within Metricon.’ Jodie feels the qualification gives her an advantage over others who haven't completed it, and she has more confidence and knowledge than before.

'I've had other people who have finished the course say the same thing. When something comes up, we probably wouldn't have been able to answer that question before doing the course, but now we have the technical abilities to answer any questions thrown our way. We also have a more holistic view of how other parts of the business function.'

Future trends

Another trend gaining momentum is snack-sized learning. HIA recently launched a range of on-demand training products. These accessible, pre-recorded training options offer participants the flexibility to upskill at their convenience, an advantage for those balancing demanding industry schedules. As flexible learning becomes a priority, this offering will be expanded in 2025.

Are you thinking about taking the next step in your career? Jodie says, 'Don't consider it. Just jump in and do it. You will always get support, no matter how busy you are. The trainers are so helpful, they want to see everyone succeed. It's like the quote from Mahatma Gandhi – “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever”.’

Ready for the future?

To learn more about HIA learning and professional development opportunities, visit HIA Careers and Learning.

First published 21 November 2024