Seven teams took part in the contest, which provided an invaluable opportunity for students to showcase their innovative ideas and teamwork skills in front of a panel of built environment judges and prospective employers.

Janice Steel MCIOB, who formed part of the judging team, said she was impressed with how quickly students came up with solutions to the task.

Janice added: “The task was especially demanding, as similar real-world projects could take years to refine. Despite the time constraints, the teams rose to the occasion.

“Every single team had a unique approach. I expected at least some of them to propose similar designs, but that wasn’t the case. It made judging even more challenging.”

The judging process focused on multiple aspects, including team participation, presentation skills, and the quality of information presented.

Teams had 10 minutes to pitch their ideas, and Steel revealed the judges were focused on the students’ verbal communication skills rather than how much information they could pack into a digital presentation.

“Being able to confidently explain and sell a project to clients is crucial in our field,” Steel continued.

“I was impressed at the level of professionalism from students at both College and University level. 

“Some of the college-level students performed just as well as those in university, which is a great indication that learning standards across both sectors are strong.”

Beyond the competition itself, the event, held at Apex Hotel in Dundee on 21 February, gave students a chance to engage with construction professionals and potential employers. A careers fair ran alongside the presentations, giving students direct access to industry leaders and networking opportunities.

As an added incentive, the winning team, Dundee and Angus College Team 2, secured a placement with the event’s sponsor, Robertson Construction Group. Previous winners have gone on to launch successful careers in the industry, with some even securing full-time positions after their placements. 

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for students, not just for their CVs but for their personal development as well,” Steel continued. 

“These events push them to think outside the box, develop their confidence, and gain real-world experience. The benefits go far beyond just winning.

“With an industry keen on attracting fresh talent, initiatives like this play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation.

“The CIOB Student Challenge continues to demonstrate innovation, collaboration, and passion are the building blocks of a successful career in the industry.”