In a move to embrace the digital transformation of construction, VolkerWessels UK has hired a civil engineer and digital expert from Atkins, Simon White, as its new "chief digital officer".
White was previously digital director at Atkins Infrastructure UK and has been tasked with exploring the opportunities offered by emerging technology, reports Construction Manager.
White said: "Technologies ranging from automated plant and machinery, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT), through to next level BIM systems, reality capturing, data visualisation, and virtual and augmented reality all have applications which can help move our industry to the next level, and at VolkerWessels UK we intend to merge our digital, innovation and construction expertise to benefit our business and our clients."
Alan Robertson, chief executive at VolkerWessels UK added: "We believe that we must act now and lead our industry into a new digital revolution that will fundamentally alter and improve the way we work.
"By harnessing the power of data and technology, and combining this with our own skills as a leading contractor, we can take advantage of unlimited possibilities for new ways of connecting our people and our clients, and sharing knowledge."
VolkerWessels UK’s parent company in the Netherlands (Royal VolkerWessels) last year launched DigiBase, a centre for digital construction, focused on cutting-edge knowledge and applications, including BIM systems, IoT, GIS, reality capturing, and virtual and augmented reality.
VolkerWessels UK is also creating innovation and digital transformation spaces in its key offices and intends to work with its DigiBase colleagues in the Netherlands to accelerate technology awareness and adoption in 2019.
Photograph: Simon White, VolkerWessels’ new Chief Digital Officer
