The journey from disruption and innovation to net zero /

Furthermore, the recognition of change as a constant factor in digitalisation also underscores the need for continuous learning, upskilling and reskilling of the workforce. As technologies evolve, the skills required to design, build, operate and maintain digitalised infrastructure systems will also evolve. Emphasising the importance of a skilled and adaptable workforce in the digitalisation of infrastructure can help address concerns related to workforce displacement and ensure that the workforce is prepared to meet the changing demands of the industry.

Investing in digital technologies positively correlates with employment of high-skilled workers, which highlights the need to enhance the skillset of the workforce to meet the demands of an evolving industry. Developing working partnerships with academics and sponsoring programmes that provide work experience opportunities in the private sector are crucial in nurturing talent and developing a more hands-on and interdisciplinary engineering curriculum. Offering on-the-job training opportunities and graduate schemes to those with little experience, as well as encouraging ongoing professional development, is also important. Developing professional certifications and standards and encouraging transnational collaboration to enhance safety standards in engineering-intensive industries, is crucial. The investment in machine-based digital technologies, such as robots, 3D printing and the ‘internet of things’, is driving the current industrial revolution and therefore it is essential to develop a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of the digital age.

Digital skills – supply, demand and development

Additionally, recognising change as inevitable also underscores the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Digitalisation often involves interdisciplinary collaboration, as well as partnerships between the public and private sectors, academia and communities. Emphasising the need for open collaboration, knowledge sharing and continuous improvement can foster innovation and drive positive change in the digitalisation of infrastructure.

In the context of achieving net zero emissions, recognising change as a constant factor is particularly important. The transition to a low-carbon economy requires innovative and sustainable solutions that can be adapted to changing technologies, policies and market conditions. Digitalisation can play a critical role in enabling the integration of renewable energy, electrification of transportation and optimisation of energy systems, but it requires a proactive approach that recognises change as inevitable and embraces the need for ongoing adaptation and innovation.

The need to recognise that change is constant and inevitable is crucial in the context of digitalisation in infrastructure. It highlights the importance of being proactive, adaptable and innovative in the face of evolving technologies, societal needs and environmental challenges, including the urgent need to achieve net zero. By recognising change as a constant factor, we can effectively harness the power of digitalisation to transform infrastructure and create a more sustainable, resilient and adaptive future.