Lewis Johnson

What do you believe are the current challenges in our industry, and how can we overcome them?

There are skills gaps within our industry when it comes to technical capabilities. Addressing this skills shortage using personal training to upskill the next generation of industry professionals is critical to achieve the uptake levels required for success. Incorporating BIM training with modules on information management and digital process, rather than specific software, will ensure that the those new to the industry can make the best use of the tools available to them.

What added value do you bring to your projects?

I bring my experience as an engineer in the building services industry, being able to critically evaluate our specialist BIM solutions by constantly challenging the usefulness and value to the project that we work on to enable better outcomes. Our continual efforts to remain at the forefront of digital construction solutions is our key advantage at BIM Academy.

My experience of working through different sectors of the industry as part of my PlanBEE apprenticeship has given me a fantastic overview of the working of the full industry workflow. Going from the initial architecture design phase, through technical services design and construction, to the in-use operation of the building. Having a good knowledge of the construction process allows me to provide advice to our clients on the implementation of our specialist solutions.

What is the best book you’ve ever read?

The Devil in the White City. The Story of Daniel Burnham attempting a building project which at the time would come to define Chicago and, in many ways, an early United States, against deadline, budget, labour and bureaucratic problems is a narrative which in many ways applies to all of us in the industry. The great success of the project through innovative methods and incredible design is something which modern construction should strive to reflect.