Key Professional Bodies and Organisations in the Construction Industry
Posted by Daria Tkach, Senior Recruitment Consultant on Sunday, January 12, 2025
Candidates often ask me whether there are specific professional bodies or organizations they should join. Naturally, this depends on your profession and career aspirations and where you envision your career heading. In this article, I will highlight some of the key professional bodies and organizations that I believe are important for professionals in the construction industry to be aware of.
Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
RICS is a globally recognised professional body that promotes and enforces the highest standards in construction, real estate, land, and infrastructure. Becoming qualified with RICS showcases professional competence and commitment, offering surveyors an internationally recognised mark of excellence.
Chartered surveyors earn on average £16,000 more than their non-RICS counterparts.
Professionals in areas such as quantity surveying, building surveying, and project management will find RICS particularly beneficial.
Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) is a leading professional body for construction management and leadership. CIOB membership provides valuable networking opportunities and access to a global community of construction professionals, as well as continuous professional development through events, seminars, and publications.
Institution of Civil Engineers(ICE)
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is one of the most prestigious professional bodies in the construction industry for civil engineering professionals. It represents civil engineers worldwide and plays a crucial role in advancing civil engineering knowledge and practice. ICE membership is a mark of professional recognition, and Chartered Engineer status (CEng) is highly regarded within the industry.
The Institute of Clerks of Works and Construction Inspectorate of GB Inc (ICWCI)
The Institute of Clerk of Works and Construction Inspectorate (ICWCI) is a leading professional body specifically focused on the development and recognition of Clerks of Works and Quality inspectors in the construction sector. It was established to promote high standards of workmanship and quality control on construction sites while providing essential support for professionals responsible for overseeing and inspecting construction projects.
ICWCI membership demonstrates a commitment to excellence in construction quality, making it an invaluable credential for those working as Clerks of Works, Construction Inspectors, or in Quality Control roles.
The Society of Construction Law (SCL)
The Society of Construction Law (SCL) is a prominent professional organization that focuses on promoting the study and understanding of construction law. It brings together legal professionals, contractors, clients, consultants, and other stakeholders in the construction industry to encourage discussion, share knowledge, and improve legal practices in construction.
SCL provides valuable resources for professionals seeking to stay informed on legal issues impacting the construction industry, such as contract law, dispute resolution, and risk management. Membership with SCL is particularly beneficial for those looking to enhance their legal expertise and build stronger networks within the legal and construction sectors.
Local and Regional Organisations
In addition to the larger, internationally recognized bodies, there are often regional or country-specific organizations that are highly influential within local construction industries. Examples include the National House Building Council (NHBC) in the UK or associations in countries like Canada, which support the Professional Quantity Surveyor (PQS) designation.
Why Join a Professional Body?
Some of the benefits of joining a professional body include:
- Professional Recognition: Gain credentials that enhance your credibility in the industry
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals and grow your network.
- Access to Resources: Keep up to date on industry trends, standards, and developments in the construction industry.
- Career Development: Access training, certifications, and seminars tailored to your profession.
Decide to join a professional body which aligns with your career goals and aspirations. Take the time to research each organization and determine which best fits your needs and ambitions. Investing in your professional growth is one of the most impactful steps you can take toward a successful and fulfilling career in the construction field.
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Daria is a Senior Recruitment Consultant with day-to-day responsibility for researching, shortlisting, contacting, and interviewing premium construction industry candidates. Daria works with our UK team to help construction industry jobseekers into exciting new construction jobs with our market leading employer clients. Daria also covers the Canadian market as part of her international recruitment responsibilities. Her focus is on Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa and other major cities in Canada.