The Future is Generation Z

The AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) and D&M (Design & Manufacturing) industries are on the precipice of a significant demographic shift. By 2030, Gen Z is projected to constitute a whopping 30% of the workforce, becoming the dominant generation in the professional landscape. This presents a tremendous opportunity to attract and retain top talent, but it necessitates a reevaluation of traditional work practices to align with the values and expectations of this new generation.

Gen Z isn't just comfortable with technology, they were born into it. They've never known a world without cloud computing, constant connectivity, remote access, and the internet. This inherent fluency in technology positions them as ideal candidates for companies seeking to implement innovative solutions and drive growth. But let's face it, an overreliance on outdated workflows – think 2D drawings and paper-based processes – can be a major turn-off for this tech-savvy generation.

And Generation Z is more than just digital natives. They want to do work that is meaningful and aligns with their core beliefs. This generation is demonstrably socially conscious and possesses a strong desire to contribute positively to the world. They are passionate about sustainability, environmental responsibility, and social justice. Companies that can effectively communicate a commitment to these values will be far more successful in attracting and retaining Gen Z talent.

So, how can AEC and D&M companies bridge the gap and attract top Gen Z talent?

• Embrace Technological Transformation: Ditch the status quo and invest in cloud-based solutions, collaborative tools, and mobile accessibility to empower a truly digital workflow. This creates a more efficient and flexible work environment that caters to Gen Z's digital fluency and allows for real-time collaboration, even across remote locations.
• Modernize Workflows: Paper trails are a relic of the past. Implement digital project management solutions to streamline processes, foster innovation, and eliminate the tedious paper-based tasks that Gen Z finds uninspiring. And let's face it... nobody wants to scramble at 4:30 PM on a Friday to refill the printer toner or troubleshoot a paper jam.
• Showcase Purpose: Don't just talk the talk, walk the walk. Clearly articulate your company's commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and creating a positive impact. Highlight projects that align with Gen Z's values and demonstrate how their work can contribute to a better future.
• Invest in Learning & Development: Recognize that knowledge transfer is crucial as Baby Boomer expertise transitions out of the workforce. Implement mentorship programs and training initiatives to bridge the knowledge gap and empower Gen Z to take full advantage of their digital fluency.
• Build a Bigger Pool: The talent pool is much larger than the 20-30 mile radius of the old days. This was mainly because many companies want the peace of mind to know that their employees won't have any issues getting to work. But with the COVID 19 pandemic normalizing remote work, it's time to take a dive into a much larger talent pool; a world-wide talent pool. Your next best employee may live 1,000 miles away from the closest office, but with Zoom, Teams, and virtual reality workspaces it can feel as though you're all in the same room together. And not having to commute to work every day saves on fuel and helps reduce carbon emissions.

The future of the AEC and D&M industries is brimming with potential, but it requires a commitment to continuous improvement. By embracing new technologies, fostering a culture of innovation, aligning your company values with Gen Z's priorities, and investing in knowledge transfer, you can position yourself to attract and retain the top talent of tomorrow.

Ready to take the next step?

Connect with me on LinkedIn, subscribe to the Built Different newsletter, or book time with me to discuss how Autodesk technology can empower your company to attract and retain top talent in this competitive market. Let's work together to build a future-proof AEC and D&M industry that thrives on innovation, social responsibility, and the talent of Gen Z.