By Renee Jain, Digital Technology Manager, Straits Construction and Women in BIM Head of Regional Leads Asia
A fantastic turnout on 9 April 2026 for the Women in BIM Singapore Round Table Discussion on: Women, technology and the future of the built environment.
The energy in the room made one thing very clear, in an increasingly digitalised world, there is a real need – and a strong desire – for a different kind of engagement.
More screens and tools do not replace the value of face-to-face conversations. Real transformation happens when people come together, listen deeply and learn from one another.
The building business is not an easy one, but it becomes more meaningful and more human because of the people who work in it.
Women in BIM, together with our generous sponsor Arup, delivered a heart warming, thoughtful and highly engaging networking session. Through this intimate round table discussion, we created space for honest conversations where women shared their career journeys, how they found their way into the built environment sector, the challenges they have navigated and the opportunities they see ahead.
There were rich discussions on digital delivery, AI and what the future of building might look like in a world rapidly shaped by technology, automation and data.
With over 60 attendees, the room was filled with more women than often seen in day to day construction site meetings, this was a powerful reminder of just how necessary and impactful events like this are.
Representation matters
When we see reflections of ourselves in different roles, those roles feel more attainable. The conversations and connections formed in small groups don’t just end when the session does; they help build confidence, create support networks and remind women that they are not navigating their careers alone.
A special shout out goes to the male allies who volunteered their time to facilitate discussions, as well as the senior leaders who actively supported this event by encouraging and enabling their female colleagues to attend. That is allyship in action, not just spoken, but practiced. These collective efforts help shape a more inclusive, supportive and resilient industry.
This event was a reminder that while technology continues to evolve how we design, build and deliver, people remain at the heart of our industry. When we invest time and effort into coming together, sharing stories, learning from one another and building community, we strengthen not only individual careers, but the future of the built environment industry as a whole.
Clear message
As we look ahead, the message is clear – we must keep showing up for ourselves, for one another and for the next generation entering this industry.
If we want a built environment sector that is innovative, resilient and truly reflective of the society it serves, we need to keep creating spaces where women are visible, heard and supported.
That means continuing to invest time in these conversations, encouraging participation and actively sponsoring, mentoring and advocating for women across all roles and career stages.
Whether you are a BIM modeller or coordinator, a people manager or a senior leader, there is a role for everyone to play. Attend the sessions. Bring a colleague. Offer your voice, your listening ear or your influence. And if you are in a position of leadership, continue to enable these opportunities, not as a tick‑box exercise, but as a genuine commitment to long‑term change.
Progress happens when intention is matched with action. Let’s keep building not just better projects, but a stronger, more connected and more inclusive industry, together.
