Hawkins’ Post

I recently had the privilege of interviewing with ConCOVE Tūhura #ConCOVE #Tūhura, Roger Smyth, a remarkable organization leading critical conversations about the future of #VocationalEducation and its alignment with New Zealand's #Construction and #Infrastructure needs. The discussion was deeply engaging, and it reinforced several key points close to my heart: 🌍 Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry: The need to better align #AcademicPrograms with #IndustryDemands was a recurring theme. We explored how vocational education often focuses on conventional principles while the industry rapidly adopts innovative technologies like #AI and #Automation. This gap calls for transformative changes in both #Curriculum and #TrainingMethods. 📚 Tailored Training and Upskilling Opportunities: One critical insight is the necessity of targeted #Upskilling opportunities, especially for #MidCareerProfessionals. Short-term, intensive training programs like #MicroCredentials can offer a practical, cost-effective solution to address current #SkillGaps without disrupting #IndustryProductivity. 💡 Innovation in Education: ConCOVE’s vision for vocational education resonates strongly with my own experiences at #AUT. Introducing specialized programs like #CarbonNeutralArchitecture or emphasizing evolved disciplines can ensure education remains relevant and impactful in addressing global challenges like #ClimateChange and #Sustainability. 🤝 Collaboration for National Impact: The conversation also highlighted the pressing need to align #NationalStrategies with #WorkforceTraining to meet ambitious goals like New Zealand’s #2050NetZeroTargets. This requires strong collaboration between #Academia, #Industry, and #Government to drive meaningful, measurable outcomes. I’m inspired by ConCOVE’s proactive role in shaping the future of vocational education and their commitment to addressing critical workforce challenges. ***Read the full article attached and join the conversation on shaping the future of education and workforce development.*** Suzanne Wilkinson Charles Walker Nicola Naismith Amir Ghaffarianhoseini AUT School of Future Environments Auckland University of Technology NZGBC Te Kāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects - Auckland Branch Smart Cities Council Dr Felix B Tan Mahdiar Ghaffarian New Zealand Qualifications Authority | Mana Tohu Mātauranga o Aotearoa MBIE Science and Innovation UNESCO-UNEVOC UNESCO Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation Beca Fletcher Construction Katherine Hall George Makapatama WARREN AND MAHONEY Fulton Hogan Hawkins Te Pūkenga Engineering New Zealand Te Ao Rangahau #VocationalEducation #Sustainability #Innovation #Upskilling #Collaboration #WorkforceDevelopment

Today I had the privilege of attending the event 'Precarious Dwelling: Encounters with the Housing Crisis,' hosted by RMIT Europe and RMIT Centre for Urban Research. The panel discussion brought together the latest research on housing vulnerability from Melbourne, Nuuk, and Barcelona, highlighting the global nature of the housing crisis. From exorbitant rentals and homelessness in Melbourne, contested housing accessibility in a period of intensive redevelopment in Nuuk, to the rising housing stress due to touristification in Barcelona, the insights were both eye-opening and urgent. The speakers also touched on critical topics such as coloniality in urban redevelopment, social and public housing in Melbourne —including plans to demolish it—, the commodification of housing by today’s real estate and capitalist society, and the urgent need for public policies on urban development and affordable housing. Attending this event has been particularly significant as I prepare for my year abroad at RMIT University in Melbourne starting in less than a month. The insights gained will be invaluable for my final bachelor's dissertation, which will focus on SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. This experience will undoubtedly enrich my research and deepen my understanding of the complexities involved in creating more socially just urban environments. Special thanks to the incredible speakers who shared their expertise: Professor Libby Porter, Dr. David Kelly, Dr. Prashanti Mayfield, Dr. Kate Shaw and Dr. Carlos Delclós. Kudos as well to RMIT Europe and RMIT Centre for Urban Research for facilitating such an insightful conversation. #Dwelling #HousingCrisis #UrbanResearch #RMIT #SocialJustice #SDG11

FREE ONLINE MODULE: Social Entrepreneurship and Evidence-Based Design for Sustainable Development. Just register on our Research-to-Practice Platform at www.kaebupr2p.eu and self-enroll! This program aims to promote entrepreneurial thinking and provide participants with an understanding of urban issues in architecture, urban design, and urban planning. We created a learning progression that integrated different stages of social entrepreneurship and evidence-based practices in urban development. The progression was designed based on established methodologies such as the Business Model Canvas, Value Proposition Design, Design Thinking, and Agile methodologies and focused on prototyping. To achieve the objectives of this short-term course, we design activities and offer participants the opportunity to analyze design thinking, manage innovation, create social entrepreneurship, elaborate on urban-based practices, and implement a business model canvas for new social businesses. The course includes 5 sessions course: 1. Design Thinking 2. Innovation Management 3. Social Entrepreneurship 4. Evidence-Based Urban Practices 5. Business Model Canvas #kaebup #erasmusplusproject #urbanism #urbanstudies #urbanplanning #urbandesign #architecture #designthinking #innovationmanagement #socialentrepreneurship #evidencebaseddesign #businessmodelcanvas #course #freecourse #selflearning

🚀 Exciting times at #MAUCA as the third trimester kicks off! Best of luck to our students on their Linked Research Projects #LRP! Our students have three dynamic options for their final trimester: 🔍 Option 1: Dive into real-world experience with a #placement at a linked employer, collaborating on impactful projects tailored to industry needs. 🌆 Option 2: Join cutting-edge research teams tackling pressing issues in architecture, urbanism, and beyond—think #carbon_efficient_buildings, #social_innovation, and #climate_action_policy research! 📝 Option 3: Forge your path with individualized #research in an area of your passion, guided by dedicated module coordinators. 🎉 We are thrilled to announce that Rola, Sombi, Harish, and Herin will be collaborating in the Richview Reseach Hub at #UCD. They will be working on several impactful research projects, including: 🌍 HeritACT: Funded by the European Union, this project aims to activate the heritage of three pilot cities. 🌱 #PROBONO: Also funded by the European Union, this initiative focuses on building green and sustainable neighborhoods through social engagement and technology. 🌆 #ReCUGI: Funded by SEAI, this project uses a holistic approach to assess the benefits of emissions reduction from compact urban growth in Ireland. 🏛️ #TREBUChET: Supported by the EPA, this project aims to support carbon reduction, urban revitalization, and the preservation of Ireland’s built heritage. The possibilities are endless, and we can't wait to witness the incredible heights our students will reach! 🚀 Best of luck, Class of 2024—your journey is just beginning! 🌟 Applications are now open for #MAUCA 2024/2025! Learn more about the course at: https://lnkd.in/g93waB32 University College Dublin UCD EngArch UCD Architecture #Research #Innovation #Sustainability #UrbanDevelopment #MScProgramme #LinkedResearchProject #Classof2024 #FutureLeaders

Why We’re Proud to Be Developer of the Year 2023 🏆   As we approach this year’s Property Week Awards, we’re reflecting on the milestones that helped us secure Developer of the Year in 2023.   💡 Innovation in Action Our £147m joint venture with Zenzic Capital has redefined what’s possible in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). Five major schemes across key student cities like Leeds, Nottingham, and Warwick are transforming the student living experience with customer-focused designs and an exceptional student experience programme.   🌍 Sustainability at the Heart From targeting BREEAM Very Good ratings to implementing FITWEL accreditations, we build with purpose. Solar panels, air source heat pumps, and MVHR systems power our developments, creating energy-efficient homes that prioritise people and the planet.   🌆 Revitalising Communities By breathing new life into underused urban spaces, we’ve delivered high-quality student homes while contributing to the regeneration of local communities. Our focus on brownfield sites highlights our commitment to thoughtful, impactful development.   📈 On-Time, On-Budget, Every Time At Torsion Group, delivering on promises is non-negotiable. From our £26.2m Warwick scheme to the thousands of PBSA units we’ve completed since 2016, we’ve built a reputation for reliability and excellence.   🤝 Partnerships That Deliver Collaboration is in our DNA. Strategic partnerships with Zenzic Capital and Atelier have fuelled our growth, enabling us to create spaces that meet the needs of students, universities, and communities alike.   It’s been a period of transformation, innovation, and impact for Torsion – and we’re only getting started. If you’re interested in partnering with us, get in touch or connect with Dan Spencer, David Worsley, Tony Bray, Louise Bena, Stuart Henderson, Ed Wootton, or Rosie Hill at Property Week.   #PropertyAwards #PBSA #StudentLiving #Sustainability #ESG #TorsionGroup #TeamTorsion #LunaStudents #StudentPW

💡Do you have a big idea for the future of London? Read this article by our CEO Max Farrell in the NLA's New London Weekly...and submit your idea before 12pm on 17th June! 🙌

Thinking of studying or working in the UK but worried about the cost? Here are the top 10 most affordable cities to consider, perfect for those on a budget: 1. Belfast, Northern Ireland: 🇬🇧 Full of history, culture, and friendly faces, Belfast offers a lower cost of living compared to other major UK cities. 2. Stockton-on-Tees, North East England: 󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 This vibrant town in northeast England is known for its riverside location, friendly community, and affordability. 3. Derby, East Midlands, England: 󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Derby offers a good mix of city life and green spaces, with a reputation for being a welcoming and affordable place to live. 4.Manchester, North West England: 󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 While Manchester is a large and dynamic city, it still offers relatively affordable housing options compared to southern England. 5. Hull, East Yorkshire, England: 󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 This historic city on the Humber River boasts a beautiful waterfront, interesting museums, and a lower cost of living. 6. Loughborough, East Midlands, England: 🇬🇧 Home to a large student population, Loughborough is known for its friendly atmosphere and affordability. 7. Sheffield, Yorkshire and the Humber, England: 󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 This city in South Yorkshire is known for its industrial heritage, outdoor activities, and relatively affordable living costs. 8. Stoke-on-Trent, West Midlands, England: 󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Stoke-on-Trent is famous for its pottery industry and offers a relaxed and affordable place to live. 9. Sunderland, North East England: 󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 This coastal city in Tyne and Wear has a rich maritime history and a reputation for being a friendly and affordable place to live. 10. Dundee, Scotland: 󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scotland's fourth-largest city offers a vibrant cultural scene, stunning architecture, and a relatively affordable cost of living. Remember, affordability can vary depending on your lifestyle. Consider factors like rent, transportation costs, and groceries when making your decision. Want to learn more about studying or working in the UK? Connect with us and know more! #StudyAbroadUK #UK #Internationalstudents #MaizEducationConsultancy #IUKUniversities #StudyAbroad #EducationConsultancyinUAE

After this year's #MIPIM, which was full of positivity for the future opportunities that Manchester faces, I've reflected on the transformative era that Manchester is currently navigating on its journey towards 2030. As a city known for its pioneering spirit and innovation, Manchester stands on the brink of a new period of sustainable growth and regeneration. Read my insights into how Manchester is tackling key challenges and seizing opportunities here: https://lnkd.in/dkjMGwQU

Housing, or lack of it, is THE issue across Europe in 2024. No other city has done what Vienna has done - built an entire new district to accommodate up to 25,000 residents. This is Pt. 2 of British expat Thom Harding's analysis of Seestadt. aspern Seestadt powered by Wien 3420 AG #vienna #realestate #seestadt

Join Me in Nottingham’s Thriving Investment Landscape! As a current investor in Nottingham, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible potential this city has to offer. With its dynamic economy and vibrant lifestyle, Nottingham is a goldmine for savvy investors looking to elevate their portfolios. Why Invest in Nottingham? Booming Economy: The city is rapidly growing, especially in technology and creative sectors, providing numerous opportunities for investment. Strategic Location: Nottingham’s accessibility to major UK cities enhances its attractiveness for residents and businesses. Green Spaces: Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces contribute to a high quality of life, making it an appealing place to live. University Hub: The presence of top-tier universities creates a steady demand for rental properties, ensuring profitable returns. I invite fellow investors to explore the exciting opportunities in Nottingham with me. Together, we can take advantage of this thriving market and secure our financial futures. 📞 Let’s connect and discuss how we can navigate this promising landscape together! Whatsapp: +31 6 27 3333 49 #Nottingham #InvestmentOpportunities #RealEstate #JoinMe #SavvyInvestors