SINGAPORE: A task force for architectural and engineering consultants has proposed enhanced internships with higher starting salaries and dedicated mentors, among a list of 11 recommendations to drive talent to the built environment consultancy sector.

It comes as Singapore's long-term infrastructure plans, such as the Long Island, Greater Southern Waterfront and Changi Airport's Terminal 5 looms on the horizon.

“To turn these complex developments into reality, we need capable and passionate BE (built environment) professionals,” said Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for National Development.  

She added that a career in the built environment has a lasting impact.

"Their imprints can be seen all around us – whether it’s our towering skyscrapers, underground infrastructures or our homes,” she added.

Ms Indranee was announcing the recommendations at the launch of the Building Singapore Festival at the VivoCity atrium on Friday (Sep 5).

The task force was set up in September last year to attract more talent to work in the built environment sector and promote business sustainability. It was co-led by Ms Indranee and Mr Chaly Mah, chairman of Surbana Jurong Group. 

It developed the report in collaboration with over 400 stakeholders through over 40 engagements and focus group discussions, said the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). Participants ranged from students and young professionals to senior leaders from the built environment and Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs). 

ENHANCED INTERNSHIPS

One key recommendation is for firms and IHLs to develop an enhanced internship programme amid difficulties attracting and retaining talent in the industry.

Named “INSPIRE”, the internship under the programme will last at least 30 weeks and expose interns to real-world projects. Interns will also be paired with mentors for guidance at the workplace.

Currently, civil engineering students typically undergo around 20 weeks of credit-bearing internship, while it is optional for architecture students to take up internships.

So far, the task force has received interest from more than 20 fi...