The challenges confronting the state’s construction industry are both well-documented and real – a labour crunch, a housing shortage, cost overruns, time delays, and building defects, just to name a few.

Addressing these challenges is critical in driving the construction sector forward and making the industry more appealing for construction professionals.

The Institute of Applied Technology - Construction (IATC) is at the forefront of providing innovative training solutions to tackle these challenges.

By offering “bite-sized”, flexible Microcredentials to help existing construction professionals upskill, the IATC is redefining vocational education and training in the construction sector.

Courses are delivered in partnership with TAFE NSW, Western Sydney University and CPB Contractors, a truly collaborative approach that allows IATC to regularly take the pulse of industry and deliver quality education. This co-design approach guarantees that the training meets the evolving needs of the industry, equipping professionals with the skills they need to succeed.

With many of its courses offered virtually, the IATC has a focus on Project Management, Leadership, and Digital Construction Skills.

One of many graduates to use IATC to take their career to the next level is Connor Jorgensen, 29, an architect and project leader with a passion for innovate architecture, urban design, and industrial design.

A Masters graduate and former scholarship holder at one of the world’s most prestigious architecture schools - Politecnico di Milano – Mr Jorgensen turned to IATC in 2024 to undertake a Microcredential in Contract Administration in Construction, an essential skill required to gain registration in architecture.

“The course wasn’t academic or fluffy and gave me a lot of real-world context,” Mr Jorgensen said.

“Even though I had graduated from an extremely well-respected international school, I found IATC appealing as the courses were short, targeted and they supplemented my learning.

“My teacher ran his own company in the field he was teaching, and the course was online so it allowed me to study around my busy lifestyle.”