Spec Finish

Community News 30 www.thefis.org The Howick construction software survey 2022 The Howick construction software survey 2022 aimed to establish a benchmark for the tools being used in the construction industry, to uncover valuable insights into how these tools are being used, and to explore how they can be improved. The survey explored overall usage of construction technologies like framing automation and CNC-driven technology. It looked at how take-up of software changed by sector. Then it delved into specific categories, including architectural design, MEP design, framing detailing, engineering analysis, cloud-based BIM and the usage of 2D and 3D technology. Construction software insights The survey findings provide significant insights to benefit software developers. As well as ranking the penetration of the different brands of construction software in use across construction sectors, it explores perceived levels of capability and know-howwithin the surveyed firms, the budgets they apply, and the opportunities they see for improvement. While the use of technology in the construction industry is increasing, the results revealed limitations and many challenges to be addressed, as well as opportunities for future development to encourage further adoption. Download the full Construction Software Survey findings at www.howickltd.com/stories/ construction-software-survey-insights www.howickltd.com The future looks bright as Zara Dupont takes the Gold Zara Dupont, an interior systems/drylining student at Leeds College of Building who is undertaking her apprenticeship with Sparta Systems, won Gold in the plastering and drywall systems category at the 2022 SkillBuild National Final. Zara said: “I was over the moon when I found out I was a finalist. It gives me so many opportunities to learn and fulfil my career goals. I would say to anyone thinking about entering SkillBuild to go for it and do your best. If you’re thinking about studying on a construction course get your head down and once you’ve learned the trade, then it’s with you for life”. SkillBuild is delivered by CITB in partnership withWorldSkills UK and offers a chance for trainees to compete in a bid to be crowned winner of their chosen trade. It is the largest multi-trade competition in the UK for construction trainees and apprentices, and as competitors progress through each stage, they are tested on their technical abilities, time management, character, and commitment. The competition is viewed by many as an opportunity to develop confidence, self-esteem, and life skills, along with the potential for the highest-scoring eligible competitors to join “Squad UK” and compete internationally. FIS CEO Iain McIlwee said: “What a fantastic demonstration of the level of skills that can be achieved by young people working in the finishes and interiors sector. A true inspiration for those interested in taking up one of the many opportunities in this dynamic sector. Congratulations to all the medal winners and those highly commended”. www.goconstruct.org/skillbuild Zara Dupont, crowned the winner of the 2022 SkillBuild National Final CAP Ceilings & Partitions celebrates its 20th Anniversary CAP Ceilings and Partitions is celebrating its 20th anniversary after being started by (now retired) Kevin Smith in his fourth bedroom back in 2003. Gary Rice, Director at CAP Ceilings & Partitions said: “What a 20 years it’s been, from humble and modest beginnings working fromKevin Smith’s fourth bedroom to three office moves. We have seen off some tough times from an economic crisis, recession, Brexit (to date), global pandemic, numerous unscrupulous main contractors and we are still standing strong. “We can do so thanks to our amazing teams past and present and the relationships we have built up over the years with subcontractors, manufacturers, suppliers and competitors. There are way too many people to thank but you know who you are and we send our heartfelt thanks and respect to you all. “Special mention to Kevin Smith for starting the business which I am ever grateful and to Aston Mills who came in as a director in 2014 when Kevin retired. Aston’s knowledge, experience and professionalism has helped us grow as a business. www.cap-ceilings.co.uk The Take Back to Give Back initiative Take Back to Give Back is a brand-new initiative by Optima Systems, designed to support its clients as well as give them full control over the entire lifecycle of their products. Optima is now offering a full take back service for any UK Optima installed products. They will safely demount their products, separating them into principal material components, and return them to their UK manufacturing facility. Their team will then inspect the demounted products to establish if they are fit for reuse or repurposing on future projects. The demounted components will then re-join the circular economy, or they will segregate them ready for the appropriate recycling. Furthermore, the original suppliers will remove and collect the glass for recycling. www.optimasystems.com/take-back-to- give-back