The BDA Adds Support to FPS/GF Diversity Initiative

October 27, 2020

The British Drilling Association (BDA) has added its weight to the Federation of Piling Specialists (FPS) and Ground Forum (GF) initiative that looks to improve both diversity and inclusivity within the construction industry and in particular the geotechnical sector.

The initiative, developed by the FPS and adopted by GF, takes the form of a mentoring programme, which aims to encourage wider participation and retention of those early in their careers within the geotechnical sector, as well as engage with students looking for career direction.

Statistics show the construction sector has some way to go towards being considered truly inclusive, with Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME), whilst accounting for 12% of the workforce represents just 8% of Engineers and Technicians in the UK. More concerning is that BAME form over 20% of those studying STEM subject at University in the UK but after a first or master’s degree BAME persons are 2.5 times more likely to be unemployed than their white counterparts. Only 3.4% of construction managers are from BAME groups and women only account for 11% of the construction workforce.

The BDA has a duty to help make our industry more representative of the communities in which we operate and enable equitable employment and progression opportunities regardless of demographics such as race, sexuality, or gender.

By throwing its support behind this programme, as well as donating towards its actioning, the BDA hopes it can help make a difference, as well as improve the lives of people in our businesses.

With construction facing a present and growing skills shortage, the potential diversity and inclusivity offers can also enhance our businesses as well.

The initiative is still in its infancy, but over the coming months GF will be looking to recruit mentors, select and train them, reach universities and mentees, connect mentors and mentees, as well as identify internships and placement opportunities.

This is a great initiative and if anyone would like to be involved, in the first instance, contact the BDA via email – office@britishdrillingassociation.co.uk