Earlier this year we were proud to launch our newest grade of membership, TechCIOB, to provide technical specialists across the globe with the opportunity to be recognised as professionals and have highly acclaimed post nominal letters after their name.

It was clear that professionals in very specific technical roles were missing out on professional body membership, so we developed TechCIOB to provide those specialists access to not only the benefits that come with membership, such as CPD, but also the accreditation that we know helps so many individuals push on in their careers.

TechCIOB is aimed at those with a level 4 construction-related qualification such as NVQ4 or BTEC, and three years’ experience working in a technical role within construction, or a level 3 construction-related qualification and five years of experience working in a technical role.

Examples of the technical specialists the new membership grade is designed for include site supervisors/managers, fire safety officers, rail technicians, utility technicians, CAD designers, building control technicians and BIM modellers.

We’re already getting lots of interest in the new offering and have received plenty of positive feedback from those who have applied and our pilot cohort, who have already graduated and started displaying those all-important post nominals after their names.

Marlon Ramroop, who works as a team leader, was among the first to take part in the successful pilot scheme.

When asked about why he decided taking part would benefit his career, he said: “TechCIOB is a prestigious designation and CIOB is recognised as a leading body within the construction industry.

“The learning and assessment process was quite challenging but it was also an exciting period and enjoyable to say the least.

“TechCIOB accreditation has provided me with a framework which may assist me in terms of development and exposure and eventually lead to career progression opportunities.

“I would definitely recommend other technical specialists to consider signing up because the accreditation highlights you’re dedicated to your profession and gives you a real sense of pride in terms of all the studies and working hours you’ve put in to get to this stage.”

TechCIOB has opened up CIOB membership to a wider pool of workers across the built environment sector as we strive to increase the levels of professionalism for the benefit of individual careers and those who live and work in the spaces they create. Our technical members will, in the same way as our MCIOB and FCIOB members, be encouraged to undertake regular CPD activities to further their knowledge and keep up to date with the latest regulations. They will have access to our annual suite of virtual and in-person events and opportunities to grow their professional networks, something which we’re hearing is very welcomed.

Members who took part in the pilot firmly believe being TechCIOB will improve their career prospects including opportunities for promotion and higher earnings, which is wonderful to hear, however for us at CIOB, having technical specialists amongst our members brings benefits for us too. It broadens our reach across the sector as we look to raise standards by increasing the number of modern professionals who work to the highest standards in ethical and sustainable ways while helping the industry to be a more welcoming place to work.

Find out more about TechCIOB at www.ciob.me/join.

Read the monthly CIOB column here.