Unfortunately, when many people think of careers in construction, outdated stereotypes often come to mind: hard hats and manual labour. However, the reality couldn’t be more different. Today’s construction industry offers diverse, innovative and rewarding career opportunities, far beyond the jobsite. Cognition Land and Water believes the time to dispel these myths is long overdue; we need to shed light on the vibrant, dynamic world of construction.

While physical work is certainly a key part of many roles, the industry is increasingly embracing cutting-edge technology. Drones, 3D printing, AI-driven project management tools, BIM, modern methods of construction, and sustainable building practices are reshaping the landscape. Careers in construction now include high-tech positions in engineering, design, project management and many more. Women are increasingly entering and excelling in the field, from skilled trades to executive positions, whilst organisations and initiatives are actively working to promote diversity and inclusivity in our industry.

Some examples of the interesting, challenging and exciting work we have been involved in include:

• The Former Pirbright Institute, Compton: An award-winning project where Cognition decommissioned and remediated a former scientific research facility to provide a clean site for redevelopment for housing within the wider community. Our work included the enhancement and protection of key ecological and environmental features, remediation of radiological, biological and chemical contamination in a highly controlled environment, with a focus on social value and community engagement.
• The Barking Power Limited Gas Pipeline Decommissioning project:  We decommissioned a 19.1km long, 24-inch diameter gas pipeline running from Horndon-on-the-Hill, Essex to Barking. Using a novel, low-carbon grout and enhanced logistics, we reduced embedded carbon by some 75%, saving over 3,250t CO2e from the original design. Through careful and sensitive negotiation, we agreed access with 36 separate landowners and 3 local authorities along the 19.1km route and supported the development proposals for the former Barking Power Station site as the new combined London Markets.
• The Queenborough & Rushenden Regeneration Project: Cognition led enabling works, remediation, and ground engineering, to transform neglected brownfield land into a site ready for housing, amenities, a school, and community regeneration. The project tackled poor ground conditions, contamination, flood risk, ecological sensitivity and complex materials management. We delivered the works in accordance with sustainable development principles, applying innovative technologies, and with the cooperation and support of the local community.
• Edmonton Marshes Fly-Tipping Clean-Up: Cognition processed and removed over 10,828m3 of fly tipped and historic illegally dumped waste from the Edmonton Marshes area of Enfield. Using novel and forensic segregation, processing and separation techniques, we achieved 81% diversion of waste from landfill. Closely following the waste hierarchy, we maximised recovery, reuse and recycling, returning the site to beneficial use.

Jobs in construction are not all about muddy boots and digging holes! We are innovative, ingenious and inventive. We bring value to the communities in which we work. We offer rewarding, challenging and exciting work opportunities. We improve the environment and make sustainable development happen.

So, spread the word! Tells you friends and kids. Construction can be exciting and rewarding.

You can read the full Deconstruction report here…www.thisisdeconstruction.com