The aim of the NWA Call is to investigate what the labour market in the built environment might look like in 2050 and to identify the steps needed to achieve this vision of the future. The research project called ‘Fostering Upskilled Talent for Urban Resilience, Energy Transition, and Digitalisation in the Built Environment (FUTURED)’, receives approximately 2.8 million euros. Sander Lenferink will be involved in this research, along with others. The project focuses on the Netherlands, where there is an urgent need for skilled workers to make the built environment sustainable and smart. Energy and digital transitions outpace labour market adaptation, creating shortages and hindering attraction and retention. Efforts remain fragmented, and education–employer alignment is weak.
FUTURED unites seven research institutions and 20 partners from national and regional levels to bridge this gap. Four work packages map labour and skills, co-create digitalisation and energy scenarios, redesign jobs and teams, and build lasting learning systems. Together, the researchers deliver knowledge, scenarios, evidence, and tools to attract, retain, and continuously develop a resilient, future-ready workforce.
The results will help to draw up a plan for the future with scenarios and recommendations for policymakers, employers, educators, and social partners. And will help to develop a labour market that is well prepared for the changes brought about by the digital and energy transitions.
Congratulations Sander!
