Cundall Australia Managing Director, Garrit Schot, has responded to a recent Engineers Australia report on the current high demand for engineers, particularly those with expertise in building services. The article, in AIRAH’s HVAC&R News, highlights the importance of employers valuing diversity in their recruitment approach. It also notes that many engineers are looking for more than just a job – they are searching for a sense of purpose. 

Cundall has been observing this high demand for talent, Schot said. 

“Public and institutional investor projects have been on the upswing, and there is also significant growth in work for asset upgrades and refurbishments to address energy efficiency, asset resilience, ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) priorities and regulatory shifts. So overall, the level and type of activity does require recruiting more engineers, particularly mechanical and other building services specialists who also have expertise in sustainability innovation and net zero carbon design.” 

But despite the challenge – and the fact that HVAC&R (heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration) building services has not always enjoyed as high a profile as other areas of engineering – Schot believes the sector is well placed to attract talent. 

“Building services is now a dynamic and innovative sector, and there has been a major shift in the overall culture as the new generation of engineers and building services technical consultants rise through the ranks,” he says. “There’s a realisation that the world can’t achieve net zero carbon without the engineering talent and the technical solutions they provide. Cundall recognises engineers are looking for more than just a salary – they are purpose-driven and want to make a positive difference in the world. They look to align themselves with companies that are leading the net zero carbon charge, have strong ethical principles and a culture that gives every person a voice.” 

This was originally published by AIRAH.