New research has revealed more than half a million construction industry jobs could be replaced by technology in the next two decades.

Data gathered by Mace as part of its 'Moving to Industry 4.0: A skills revolution' report states more than 600,000 jobs could be automated and workers re-skilled for new roles by 2040.

In addition, the report states automation would also help to reduce the productivity gap and generate about an extra £25 billion a year for the UK.

However, Mace also warns that without a major effort to reskill the current workforce and attract a new generation of more tech savvy workers, the sector along with the UK will lose out on the potential productivity benefits of the next industrial revolution.

The consultancy has outlined three key aims to help ensure the necessary number of workers can be re-trained;


• Accelerate the use of new technology in training - By mandating that the latest 3D printing technologies and augmented and virtual reality tools are introduced into industry training programmes and into ‘construction clubs' in schools, the sector can better meet its future skills challenges will also ensuring that courses are attractive to potential students and recruits

• Inform lifelong learning decisions - At the moment data is sparse on what skills we will need in the future. By commissioning large-scale sector-wide research and working with Government bodies like the ONS and CITB, the construction industry will be able to ensure that its skills profile is changing to meet actual need

• Revolutionise traditional education programmes – Redevelop the curriculum on offer now to reflect the modern methods of construction and off-site assembly that will be needed in the future.

Mark Reynolds, Mace's Chief Executive said the recommendations will help towards addressing issues such as the skills crisis and the productivity gap.

"Everyone now acknowledges the current skills shortages need to be addressed," he said.

"Our latest report high-lights the opportunities the digital revolution can offer, how we can dramatically close the future skills gap and how we can meet the £25bn ‘productivity challenge.

"The recommendations we have laid out will go some way towards addressing these issues. The industry, our training bodies and government need to work together to take full advantage of everything that Industry 4.0 can offer."

To download the report, visit here.

(LM)