Building confidence in MMC
Earlier this month YORhub attended an event hosted by Ali Saad Ph.D., Lecturer in Construction Engineering and Project Management at Loughborough University.
Sponsored by the Association of Researchers in Construction Management (ARCOM) the event attracted a wide range of professionals, academics and researchers with the goal of sharing knowledge and promoting collaboration between academia and industry, to reinforce confidence in modern methods of construction (MMC) and their potential in the future of the industry.
The event featured UK construction leaders as keynote speakers, including Alison Nicholl, Head of Constructing Excellence; Gaynor Tennant, Founder of the Offsite Alliance and Dr. Emmanuel Aboagye-Nimo, Senior Lecturer in Construction Management, at Birmingham City University. Steve Baker and Mike Raven attended representing YORhub, with Steve leading one of the round table discussions on the recommendations from Dr Saad’s new policy practice paper.
Professor Malcolm Cook, Dean of the School, warmly welcomed attendees to Loughborough, setting the stage for a productive day of engagement, highlighting the impact of the school’s contributions to practice, and the importance of academic-industry collaborations. Attendees include founders of innovative organisations, doctoral researchers, and academics eager to explore change and innovation within the construction sector. This workshop provided an opportunity for networking and bridged the knowledge-sharing among practice and academia, which may be key to advancing the industry.
One of the main features of the event was Dr. Ali M. Saad’s launch of his policy practice paper, which served as the focal point for the day’s discussions. Throughout the workshop, roundtable discussions were held, encouraging active participation and critical evaluation of the paper’s key recommendations. These discussions allowed attendees to criticise, debate, and challenge existing wisdom and explore innovative solutions to reinforce confidence in different and innovative ways of delivering places.
Dr Saad said “The event not only reinforced the importance of modern methods of construction but also showcased the power of professional-academic collaboration in driving industry-wide change. By bringing together thought leaders and experts from various sectors, backgrounds, and interests, the event exemplified the significance of research, innovation, and collaboration in furthering knowledge and embracing change.”
