The most sought after skills in ConTech

The ConTech sector is evolving rapidly as more and more construction companies are embracing the digital solutions on offer.

And with rapid evolution comes the need for a different set of skills that currently exist in abundance within the industry. ConTech can cover quite the range of niche specialties that need their own unique skillsets, but we have noticed a few key skills that are consistently appearing in job descriptions and are high on the wish list of hiring managers across the space. Here is a list of the most sought after skills currently in the industry.

Data analytics & AI

Surprise, surprise, these skills are in high demand in a technology-focused industry. It may seem almost too obvious for us to mention, but with how often they come up in conversations around hiring we simply had to mention them. AI skills are in such high demand that hiring managers have stated that they will be more likely to hire a candidate with less experience but with AI skills than a candidate with a few more years of experience. Find out more around the AI hiring revolution in our Skills Report here.

Data analysis is also in such high demand because it really is the future of decision-making. It's great to know how to use AI, but if a candidate can analyse performance data to guide their AI usage to be as efficient as possible then they are often considered a real diamond.

It probably goes without saying that candidates with these skills are in a strong position in the market as they will have their pick of the companies to choose from. To attract these top candidates, be prepared to offer a handsome salary and a well-rounded benefits package, as you're likely to be in competition for them.

Building Information Modelling (BIM)

This collaborative process involves the use of 3D models and other data points to produce a digital version of an asset, and it encourages all stakeholders in the project to enter into this shared environment and work together on any decisions and issues in real-time. It's seen as one of the best ways to streamline construction projects moving forward, so having the skills to help make it happen are in high demand. The main skills include 3D modelling and being proficient in BIM software, such as Autodesk Revit and Bentley MicroStation.

How can you test for these crucial skills within the recruitment process? Targeted questioning is a good starter for early-stage interviews. Think about assessing knowledge on particular software they will likely be using in the role, but we would recommend building in practical tests for these skills. Practical demonstrations to showcase their modelling abilities and clash detection are the best way to find out each candidate's proficiency level.

Project Management

The aim of the game within ConTech is all about efficiency; how can a construction project be completed within a given time frame and in the most cost-efficient way possible. The skill that is maybe the most valuable in attempting to achieve this goal is project management. A candidate who has high-level experience in delivering complex projects, on time and within budget, can basically demand whatever salary they want in this market.

To attract these highly talented project management experts to your company over competitors, think about what you can offer more than just a compensation package. We've found that top candidates place a lot of value into companies that offer flexible working patterns wherever possible. If you're in a position to allow for flexible hours, working from home, or other flexible working patterns, this could be an initiative to help win over talent in your industry.

Soft skills

Whilst there are a lot of sought-after skills in this industry that can be acquired either through education or experience, let's not forget that soft skills are becoming more and more important in the hiring process. Soft skills are those that are more around the personal attributes and personality of a candidate, rather than what is on their CV. Strong collaboration, communication, adaptability, and digital literacy are just a few soft skills that can help a candidate stand out in a recruitment process.

But how can you assess soft skills when hiring? Thinking about the questions and the tests you have in place in your process to help bring out these skills is the best way. Think about asking behavioural and situational questions to test their quick thinking, which will naturally also bring their soft skills to the surface.

That's our list of some of the most in-demand skills throughout ConTech in 2025. Are you interested in seeing where your skills fit into a new role? Reach out to me on grace.fuller@fmctalent.com and let's chat about the opportunities available that could be a great fit.