We provide Construction Workers Registration service, and introduce Registered Specialist Trade Contractors Scheme as well as the Technically Competent Persons Registration Scheme to the construction industry.
We provide Construction Workers Registration service, and introduce Registered Specialist Trade Contractors Scheme as well as the Technically Competent Persons Registration Scheme to the construction industry.
As Hong Kong rolls out a robust pipeline of infrastructure projects over the next decade, rising construction volumes are exacerbating our severe labour shortage. Since no industry transformation can succeed without talent, ensuring our sustainable development requires a long-term strategy to attract and nurture the younger generation. Crucially, we must cultivate their "Spirit of Craftsmanship"—ensuring they not only master technical skills but also relentlessly pursue excellence. Only then can our industry pass the torch and stride confidently into the future.
Tackling Manpower Challenges: Anchoring the Industry with Craftsmanship
Last month, the Construction Industry Council (CIC) released the Construction Expenditure Forecast and Construction Manpower Forecast. Total public and private construction expenditure is projected to reach HK$305 billion to HK$360 billion over the next five years (2026-27 to 2030-31). Consequently, manpower demand will shift, with significant shortages anticipated in plant and machinery operation, rigger, and electrical and mechanical installation. In response, the CIC and the Government will maintain a multi-pronged approach: stepping up training and recruitment, and driving the adoption of advanced construction technologies to upskill the local workforce and boost productivity.
Driving cultural change is equally critical. The CIC recently hosted the Craftsmanship Charter signing ceremony, where 26 organisational representatives pledged to uphold its four core pillars: "Craftsmanship, Craftsman-soul, Craftsman-skills, and Craftsman-action." Through upcoming initiatives, we aim to help the industry translate this spirit into tangible actions.
Craftsmanship: Nurturing Young Talent through Sustainable Construction
Craftsmanship—the relentless pursuit of excellence—stems from our pride in our profession. The "Hong Kong Infrastructure NO.1" video series, recently launched by the CIC and the Development Bureau, highlights Hong Kong's global leadership in infrastructure. Through these authentic success stories, we hope young people will recognise our industry's extraordinary achievements, foster craftsmanship early on, and take pride in joining our ranks. As they hone their technical expertise, we encourage them to actively engage in future-facing fields like sustainable construction.
The 4th "CIC Sustainable Construction Award" is themed "Sustainability at Heart Crafting a World Apart." Notably, this edition introduces the "Low Carbon Citation" for innovative carbon reduction practices, and within the "Industry Practitioner Category", raises the age limit for the "Young Practitioner" sub-category to 35. Through these awards, the CIC aims to inspire more young people to pursue sustainable construction, ensuring they begin their careers with a craftsmanship and a drive for excellence.
Craftsman-soul: Pioneering Innovation with STEAM x BIM
To attract youth, we must demonstrate that the industry is creative, digitalised, and vital to future urban development. The "STEAM × BIM Construction Model Creative Design Competition 2025" organised by the Hong Kong Institute of Construction, enables students to learn Building Information Modelling (BIM), AI concepts, and Twinmotion animation. This competition transforms abstract ideas into 3D-printed models and animated shorts. Winning entries will be featured in a roving exhibition and are currently on display at the Education Bureau’s Kowloon Tong Education Services Centre for one year. The Competition has introduced the “My Favourite Walk-through Video” Online Voting Campaign to enable the public to better understand how construction is integrated into STEAM education and AI technological development through the display of students’ creativity.
Furthermore, the recently concluded "Infrastructure x Education" roving exhibition, co-organised by the Development Bureau and the CIC, integrated iconic Hong Kong projects into STEAM education. Featuring AI experiences and interactive games, it allowed the public to learn through play. The event also highlighted the "STEAM UP" education platform, offering construction-themed lesson plans, teaching materials, and an activity resource centre for schools. I hope these resources spark an early interest in infrastructure, positioning construction as a premier career choice and building a robust talent pipeline.
My recent participation in "National Security Education Day" also left a deep impression. As a pillar of Hong Kong's economy, ensuring the quality and safety of our infrastructure is integral to safeguarding our home and contributing to our nation. I hope that as young people master innovative technologies, they also grasp the profound social and national significance of the construction profession.
Craftsman-skills: Passing the Torch at HKU
Last month, I shared my career journey with students at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). Young people need more than just information; they need authentic stories, genuine lessons, and clear career pathways.
My construction career was built step by step. I emphasised to the students that a solid technical foundation and a clear understanding of site realities are prerequisites for applying technology effectively. With rapid digital advancements over the past decade, construction now seamlessly integrates engineering expertise, digital technology, collaborative management, and social responsibility. From smart construction and data integration to project management, the industry offers vast opportunities for youth. Yet, beyond professional growth, safety remains paramount. We must instil safety awareness during their education so that a strong safety culture takes deep root in our industry.
Craftsman-action: Showcasing Excellence at the WorldSkills Competition
In an era of rapid technological advancement, the WorldSkills Competition is a timely reminder that exquisite craftsmanship and professional skills remain the irreplaceable core of our industry, proving the "Craftsmanship Spirit" is timeless. Hailed as the "Skills Olympics", it provides a platform for technical exchange among young competitors and expert judges. By sending a delegation, the CIC hopes to broaden our youths' international horizons, elevate the industry's professional image, and instil pride among practitioners.
The 48th WorldSkills Competition will be held in Shanghai this September. The CIC will field competitors in eight trades: Bricklaying, Cabinetmaking, Concrete Construction Work, Joinery, Painting and Decorating, Plumbing and Heating, Wall and Floor Tiling, and Welding. To prepare, the CIC has appointed three "Skills Ambassadors" to provide professional training:
Welding Skills Ambassador LAM Man-chun introduced smart robots to site work, ensuring precise welding and repetitive tasks are completed safely and efficiently.
Plumbing and Heating Skills Ambassador Ivan CHAN, uses smart platforms to instantly review competition data and analyse requirements with competitors, formulating optimal strategies.
Joinery Skills Ambassador FONG Chun-yin provides hands-on demonstrations and practical insights, helping competitors master key techniques and enhance precision.
As the Shanghai competition approaches, our WorldSkills competitors will showcase their craftsmanship at Citywalk in Tsuen Wan from 29 May to 3 June 2026. I invite everyone to visit and support them as they strive for glory for Hong Kong! I also encourage the industry to continue supporting young talent through training, mentorship, and recognition, ensuring this spirit is passed down through generations.
Nurturing the younger generation requires synchronised progress across culture, action, innovation, heritage, and sustainability. The "Craftsmanship Spirit" is not merely a slogan; it is our commitment to the next generation, the industry, and society. I call upon all industry peers to join hands, enabling young people to find a sense of belonging and achievement in construction as we collectively build Hong Kong's future.
