The latest Industry Barometer from the European Federation of Engineering Consultancy Associations (EFCA) shows that the past 6 months have been remarkably busy for the consultancy and engineering industry in Europe.
Order books are noticeably reduced but remain at higher-than-normal levels. The market index is decelerating from the 2021 peak level. This means that there is still a strong state of business in the consultancy and engineering industry in Europe.
The largest challenges for the consultancy and engineering industry in Europe are the shortage of staff, low fees and salary increases. Geopolitics, energy transformation, rising inflation and interest rates are continuing factors contributing to uncertainty – and opportunities – in market developments of the future. The full report is available here.
Join the Discussion on Climate Resilience at EFCA International Conference 2023 in Rome
The EFCA International Conference 2023 in Rome on May 31 is set to be an informative and thought-provoking event. With additional speakers confirmed for the discussion on “Delivering Climate Resilience: How the European Green Deal, Digitalisation, and Harmonised Standards Present Opportunities for Engineering Consultancies,” attendees can expect to gain insights into the crucial issues facing the industry. The conference will explore the ways in which engineering and consultancy companies can contribute to the reconstruction of Ukraine, the role of digitalisation in promoting structural resilience, and the opportunities available to consulting engineers in enhancing climate resilience. Whether you’re an industry professional or simply interested in the future of engineering and consultancy, this event is not to be missed. Register now to secure your place and be part of the discussion. More information is available here.
EFCA responds to Taxonomy Consultation
The EU Commission is currently seeking feedback on its proposed Taxonomy Delegated Acts. EFCA strongly supports the lowering of the target for recycled concrete use from 60% to 30%. EFCA believes that the 30% target is more realistic and achievable, but has also requested the reintroduction of CE.3.5.3, recognising that even achieving the lower target can be challenging when using recycled material that needs to be moved long distances. In line with CE. 3.5.4, the ultimate rationale should be that only options leading to the lowest CO2 emissions are used. More information is available here.
EFCA Board meets in Belgrade
Recently, EFCA’s Board of Directors met in Belgrade, hosted by the Association of Consulting Engineers of Serbia (ACES), to discuss critical topics related to the engineering industry. The evening before, a joint meeting with ACES, EFCA and the Construction Dispute Resolution Center heard updates from the Board members of the three organisations. Amongst other topics, participants considered skills development and addressing industry skill gaps. On the agenda for the EFCA Board were the implications of the Data Act, CSRD, and Taxonomy for EFCA members and the industry. The forthcoming General Assembly in Rome and a pre-assembly conference were also on the agenda. EFCA’s commitment to skills development, sustainability, and innovation continues to drive the industry towards a sustainable future.
Webinar: EFCA Highlights Critical Barrier to Full Digitalisation of Construction Industry
Last week, the High Level Construction Forum organised a webinar on the digital transition of the construction industry. During the webinar, the European Commission provided attendees with an update on its ongoing efforts to digitalise procurement processes and building permits, as well as find the right EU solution for digital building logbooks, which are already used at national level in some countries. From EFCA’s perspective the most important aspects, which currently threaten to hamper full digitalisation of the industry relate to data sharing and its implications for Intellectual Property, as well as security and privacy. This issue is also preventing the mindset change needed, because partners in the construction ecosystem are concerned about risk, as well as liability. EFCA believes that this one issue, above all others, must be resolved if we are to achieve the goal of full digitalisation in the long term.
The seventh progress report for Housing for All, which details the progress and
measures achieved during Quarter 1 of 2023 has been published and is available here.
EFCA’s European Green Deal Committee discusses taxonomy
Earlier this week, a new Chair hosted a meeting of sustainability experts from the consulting engineering community. Amongst other subjects, taxonomy and energy were on the agenda. The Chair and Vice-Chair, from COWI and Sweco respectively, consulted participants, who included the previous Chair and Vice-Chair. Immediate objectives for 2023 will build on past work and will align with the EU objectives of the Green Deal, where these match the expertise of the Member Associations and the consulting engineering firms. The sustainability expertise of the group, which includes circularity measurement, taxonomy and energy assure us of significant progress towards a sustainable future. Watch this space for updates on their work! Further information is available here.
EFCA will support work on cloud computing contract clauses
EFCA’s Chair of the Digitalisation and BIM Committee, Joseph Ickmans, has recently been accepted as a member of a newly formed sub-group to the Expert Group on B2B data sharing and cloud computing contracts. A civil engineer, currently responsible for major tunnel projects at Tractebel, Jef is also an expert in BIM. The list of members of this sub-group has not yet been published.
Women in engineering
In the latest edition of Construction Europe, EFCA emphasises the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in the engineering and construction industry. The article pays tribute to women in engineering, acknowledging some leading women in the EFCA community and beyond. It highlights the chronic skills shortage in the industry, with women still being underrepresented; and provides statistics from different countries. Looking beyond the “traditional” profile of engineers will attract and retain talented individuals, boost innovation and creativity and motivate the next generation of engineers and construction professionals. Further information is available here.
Joint recommendations for future reconstruction of Ukraine
As a co-signatory of a joint paper, EFCA, along with other stakeholders from the Construction 2050 Alliance, emphasises the urgent need for reconstruction efforts in Ukraine once conditions make that possible. The estimated cost of reconstruction has risen to $138 billion and the World Bank estimates the total investment needed at around $350 billion. EFCA and the other co-signatories recommend rebuilding sustainably, involving and training local partners, using sustainable materials and following EU anti-corruption legislation. The paper also emphasises the importance of private sector investment in the long-term to accelerate and optimise the use of public money. Further information is available here.
Webinar: Commission initiatives supporting digital transition
EFCA will take part in the High Level Construction Forum webinar next week, on the digital transition of the construction industry. During the event on 25 April the European Commission will update participants on its ongoing efforts towards digitalising procurement processes and building permits; and improving digital building logbooks. Additionally, participants will be informed of the current status of the Data Act and the Artificial Intelligence Act. The webinar will also highlight the support available for SMEs, which face financial and other obstacles. Industry representatives will take part in a panel discussion and present their specific actions, aimed at supporting the Transition Pathway for the Construction Ecosystem, which was published on 15 March 2023. EFCA will outline its own commitment and some of the relevant actions being undertaken by the consulting engineering industry. Further information is available here.
The Department of Housing has issued it’s guide on A guide to the marketing and use of Aggregate Concrete Blocks to EN 771-3 in Ireland, please distribute it within your organisations.
EFCA proposes measures to manage contracting process
Following recent discussions aimed at trying to resolve some of the obstacles to the reconstruction of Ukraine, EFCA has proposed solutions, to the Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations (DG NEAR). European engineering consultancies will be at the forefront of the reconstruction efforts. These require a suitable legal and political framework, to ensure a transparent and efficient procurement process. EFCA recommends a project-based approach for infrastructure reconstruction, adherence to European standards and FIDIC contract models; and the simplification of procedures for European companies to work with local firms. EFCA also proposes the creation of a dedicated EU Framework Contract for the reconstruction of Ukraine, which would accelerate the procurement process and ensure that the best-qualified resources are procured.
Together with our Italian member OICE, we are excited to announce that registration is open for the EFCA General Assembly & Conference 2023. Members will join us in Rome for both events and non-members can join us on 31 May 2023 to explore how the engineering industry can contribute to improved climate resilience and take advantage of the opportunities presented by digitalisation, harmonisation and the European Green Deal. The conference will feature expert speakers, networking opportunities and a lunch for C-suite executives from consulting engineering firms across Europe. The Gala dinner will include the EFCA Future Leader Award Ceremony. Register now to secure your spot and learn more about the future of the industry. More information is available here.
Brian Kavanagh, ACEI President 2022-2023 presenting
the President’s Award to Dr Sarah Ingle, ACEI Secretary General
Annual Engineering Excellence Awards Ceremony in Dublin
The Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland (ACEI) organised a gala dinner last week in Dublin. During the event, Brian Kavanagh, ACEI President 2022-2023, celebrated with the winners of the annual Engineering Excellence Awards. The awards are an excellent opportunity for firms to showcase their remarkable work and be acknowledged for their efforts. RPS was awarded the Project of the Year title for its Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Study to Process & Store CO2. In addition, the guests paid tribute to Dr Sarah Ingle, who is leaving her post as Secretary General of the association after over 8 years, to move to the US. She received the 2023 President’s Award for her exceptional contribution to the association and the engineering field. Sarah has also served as an active member of the EFCA Board. EFCA congratulates all the winning firms for their impressive accomplishments and wishes Dr Ingle all the best for her future endeavours. More information is available here.
EU Technical Guidance on Adapting Buildings to Climate Change
Just published, this report gives details of existing methods, best practice and guidance for climate-resilient buildings. With practical advice for professionals, it also serves as a reference for EU policy documents. The report covers policies and standards related to building adaptation, structural design standards, climate vulnerability and risk assessment; and approaches for rating building resilience. The guidance is intended to encourage the adoption of climate-resilient building standards across Europe. More information is available here.
Study on Digital Building Logbooks for construction industry
The European Commission (DG GROW) has launched a study to support the development of Digital Building Logbooks (DBLs) that will help the digitalisation of the construction ecosystem. The survey aims to gather feedback and input on the potential costs and benefits of implementing DBLs and related activities. The result should be a framework with protocols for DBLs combined with guidelines to implement DBLs at the national level, facilitating harmonisation and sharing of building data. DBLs will connect stakeholders throughout the lifecycle of a building by facilitating the collection, storage, exchange, sharing and updating of data. More information is available here.
ACEI is pleased to announce the appointment of Shane Dempsey as the new Secretary General of the ACEI.
Shane has an extensive background within the construction industry having previously served as CIF Director of Communications & Government Relations in addition to roles within Premier Lotteries as Director of Corporate Affairs and on IBEC’s food and drink industry body as Director of Prepared Consumer Foods.
We wish Shane well in his new position which he will take up on May 2nd.
Brian Kavanagh, ACEI President 2022-2023 presented certificates on Friday, 31st March to the award winners at a gala dinner in the Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin.
ACEI congratulates all the award-winning firms on their well-deserved accolades.
Project of the Year
Winner: RPS
For: CCS Study to Process & Store CO2
Civil Category – Medium Project
Winner: J.B.Barry& Partners
For: Lee Road Water Treatment Plant
Civil Category – Medium Project
Highly Commended: RPS
For: Ballough AGI Bypass Project
Civil Category – Large Project
Winner: Arup
For: Dublin Airport North Runway
Structural Category – Medium Project
Winner: Barrett Mahony Consulting Engineers
For: 20 Kildare Street
Structural Category – Large Project
Winner: Arup
For: Bolands Quay Redevelopment
Mechanical & Electrical – Medium Project
Joint Winner: J.B. Barry & Partners
For: Main Lift Pump Station, Pigeon House Road
Mechanical & Electrical – Medium Project
Joint Winner: Varming Consulting Engineers
For: Merlin Park University Hospital: New Orthopaedic Theatre Block
Mechanical & Electrical – Large Project
Winner: O’Connor Sutton Cronin(M&E)
For: The Exo Building
Sustainability Natural Environment
Winner: Nicholas O’Dwyer
For: Clifton Sewage Treatment Plant
Sustainability Built Environment
Winner: O’Connor Sutton Cronin
For: Spencer Place, North Wall Quay
Project Management Category
Winner: Arup
For: Digital Manufacturing Ireland (DMI)
Overseas Category
Winner: O’Connor Sutton Cronin
For: Goodluck Hope, London, UK
Innovation Category – Small/Medium Project
Winner: MWP
For: Howth Fishery Harbour Centre: Middle Pier Upgrade
Innovation Category – Large Project
Winner: O’Connor Sutton Cronin
For: The Exo Building
Microfirm Category
Winner: Torque Consulting Engineers
For: Tropical Fruit Warehouse
The 2023 ACEI President’s Award recipient was presented with the accolade for her outstanding contribution to Consulting Engineering both in Ireland and Overseas, as Secretary General of the Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland from 2015 to 2023.
Brian Kavanagh, ACEI President 2022-2023 with Dr Sarah Ingle
During his presentation, Brian Kavanagh, ACEI President 2022-2023 explained that, “It is the prerogative of the President to present an Award to a Non Member who in their opinion has contributed to the Engineering Profession and the wider Industry in an outstanding manner. This year it was an easy task, the Award goes to Dr Sarah Ingle for her outstanding contribution to the Association, its members, the wider construction community both here and abroad.
Her knowledge of the Industry, the people, (not just in Ireland but in Europe and FIDIC World Wide ) is outstanding. When Sarah speaks, people listen, as they know, it is measured and worthwhile.
Since Sarah’s recruitment by colleague, and past ACEI President Kevin Rudden, she has brought the Association to another level. Not only has she lead our Association but has been a board member of EFCA and member of the FIDIC, Directors and Advisory Council.
She is currently the Chair of the Construction Industry Council. Outside of the ACEI she has been a Board member of the Irish Full Bright Commission until very recently.
She also has a hidden talent of being a founder member of the Campus Choir at DCU and performs with the Peoples College Choir as a Soprano.
Sarah leaves ACEI to join her husband Willo on an overseas assignment, ACEI wishes them continued success in their careers and adventures together”.
The ACEI Future Leader Award recognises a consulting engineer as a potential leader with excellent communication skills, business acumen, technical capabilities and strong ethical values. Congratulations to the 2023 awardee, Patrick Kavanagh, BEng (Hons), CEng, RConsEI, MIEI, LEED GREEN Associate, BREEAM AP, WELL AP, BER Assessor, SEAI Energy Auditor.
As an Engineering Director, Patrick is responsible for managing the Building Services team in Dublin and also represents BDP as a Business Development Director. Patrick is recognised in the industry as a specialist in the design of sustainable buildings having worked with over 30 design practices in Ireland across multiple sectors. Patrick regularly speaks at industry events and has acted as an external examiner for Technical University Dublin, also visiting as a guest lecturer to advise students on sustainable design techniques. He has extensive direct project experience which includes leading the design of multiple award winning buildings in the workplace, healthcare, education, retail and residential sectors and was the lead engineer on Ireland’s first ‘Net Zero Operational Carbon’ hotel. Sustainability is at the core of Patrick’s engineering approach, and this is supported by his multiple accreditations.
Congratulations to the 2023 awardee, Patrick Kavanagh, Engineering Director, BDP
Pictured with Brian Kavanagh, ACEI President 2022-2023