4 Ways Autodesk University’s Connect & Construct Summit Can Advance Your Career

The effects of the labor shortage continue to hinder most construction companies when it comes to hiring new talent. In fact, 80% of contractors are struggling to fill hourly craft positions, according to a recent US construction industry survey by Autodesk in partnership with the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America. 

However, there are some promising long-term solutions to the labor crisis. According to Ken Simonson, AGC’s chief economist. “The best way to encourage continued economic growth, make it easier to rebuild aging infrastructure and place more young adults into high-paying careers is to address construction workforce shortages.” 

To meet the labor crisis head-on, companies need to look outward to learn to create a culture where individual careers and innovative mindsets can flourish. But, the resounding question remains: where to begin? The Connect & Construct Summit at Autodesk University is just the place. On November 18, 2019, construction professionals from all backgrounds will convene in Las Vegas to advance both their own and their teams’ careers.   

 With over 80+ workshops and classes to select from, the Connect & Construct Summit is the place to learn best practices and new skills that can be implemented immediately into projects. Select from a variety of classes and speakers, including a can’t miss keynote from Billy Beane, Executive VP of Baseball Operations, Oakland Athletics Baseball and subject of award-winning book and major motion picture “Moneyball.” Register for one high-impact day of construction at Connect & Construct or stay for Autodesk University (November 19-21) to create four full days of dynamic learning and networking with fellow members from the AEC, manufacturing, and design industries.     

Want to learn how the Connect & Construct Summit can advance careers in the industry? Let’s take a look.  

1.  Meet and Mingle with the Industry’s Finest  

By attending the Connect & Construct conference, you’ll be in an engaging environment where you’ll have the opportunity to form solid connections with industry peers and construction professionals from around the world. 

Learn valuable insights, talk about leading strategies, and discuss similar challenges within the industry. Additionally, gain a pulse on how well you are keeping up with industry best practices to find out what’s needed to stay ahead. 

There are no shortage of networking opportunities to consider:

• Download the AU app to connect with industry peers and leaders in attendance
• Join conversations with Product leaders at the Co:Construct Zone to discuss workflows, integrations and future of the products 
• Meet your like-minded peers in the Community Zone where you can sign up for our online Construction Community, win prizes, get your Linkedin Profile blinged out, or join a Meet-Up 
• Learn about our Integration Partners and explore the latest technology that can enhance your workflows 
• Join the Evening Networking Reception and raise a glass to a busy but fulfilling day 
• Don’t forget to use social media to your advantage and watch the #ConnectConstruct hashtag for highlights of the day! 

2. Participate in Unique Training and Professional Development  

With an abundance of workshops and classes to select from, learn new tricks, tips, and skills to implement immediately into your company and daily job duties–truly the bread and butter of this event. Many of these workshops and classes are focused on learning and developing critical technology skills in today’s evolving construction environment. Immerse yourself in sessions to learn how to improve safety with BIM and VR, utilize the basics of field productivity software, and implement preconstruction solutions.    

The Connect & Construct Summit also will feature several classes dedicated specifically to professional development, including a session called, “Elevating Skilled Trades to Project Management - The Value of Professional Development.” With the adoption of new technologies such as software-based project management tools, digital drawings that include 3D and BIM data, and evolving methods of collaboration, it’s essential to adopt more formalized methods of continued education, as well as find ways to make this available to our skilled tradespeople. This panel discussion will explore the importance of access to information and training, the value of self-paced learning, and the benefits that professional development can bring to organizations and the industry. 

3. Embrace the Benefits of Diversity  

A diverse workforce is an asset for any construction company. According to McKinsey & Company, firms with diverse executive teams are up to 33% more likely to outperform their competitors. Forward-thinking construction firms should aim to bring diversity and inclusion efforts to the front and center of their business and hiring and retention strategies.  

At the Connect & Construct Summit, there will be several sessions aimed at promoting diversity in the industry. For instance, “Millennial Myths Debunked: Overcoming Generational Biases and Embracing Diversity” will highlight the importance of diversity in many forms such as age, race, and gender. In an industry known to question the ROI of any strategic initiative, Jeffrey Sample, Speaker/Disruptor/Consultant who is widely known as the “Ironman of IT,” will explain the value of communication, respect, and bridging the generational, gender, and racial gap to influence your company’s culture and effectiveness. By learning how to work, nurture, and manage groups of people with different backgrounds and perspectives, transformative and innovative changes are possible.  

Another session, “Championing Diversity to Drive Innovation and Culture,” will showcase how championing diversity in construction is key to driving digital transformation. Technology brings people together and empowers teams to be more human-centric. Cross-generational collaboration and engagement create a corporate legacy of purpose and meaning. By fostering this legacy through a culture of creativity, productivity, and efficiency, learn how your company can mobilize to navigate economic uncertainties and elevate your business to its highest potential. 

4. Be Inspired 

Inspiration is a powerful motivator when it comes to career advancement. The Connect & Construct Summit will host many talented and thought-provoking construction professionals and leaders. In addition to the networking opportunities available, there are several sessions to learn how these individuals got to where they are today. 

In the “Women In Construction Innovation” panel, industry innovation leaders will share challenges and successful frameworks. This includes how to manage innovation in construction, tap into the unique team background, and empower a culture where transformation can thrive.  

About Connect & Construct  

The Connect and Construct Summit at Autodesk University is a high-impact day dedicated to the construction industry. This one-day event before Autodesk University gives you the opportunity to network with peers, as well as those from the Autodesk Construction Solutions team. See the latest technology, hear inspiring keynote presentations from industry leaders and influencers, as well as learn valuable strategies for improving your construction operations.