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#DCA2023 _ "the UK industry awakes to a plethora of opportunity!"



"The business case for #digitalconstruction has officially been made and accepted, by UK plc!"

_ Abisogun OBE



For those, like me, that celebrate the 'spirit' of the 4th July 2023; a celebration of independence, yesterday's event, covened by the amazing team at ATOM Publishing and Diversified Communications. It was my first time as a Judge and I want to really extend a warm thank you and many congratulations to the the amazing 'tricky trio', Justin Stanton, Ollie Hughes and Will Man - aka Team JOW. They absolutely smashed it last night.




Credit: Team JOW



At the glitzy, well organised, prestigious and somewhat 'posh-event' as affirmed by comic, Rob Beckett, who did an amazing job of keeping eveyone in hysterics! the Brewery, a stones throw form the Barbican, even at full capacity, was an absolutely enjoyable affair. It was a great opportunity to meet up with industry contacts, old and new, and exchange ideas and industry sentiments about next steps for the industry with very much of a people-centric narrative. I am excited about the future, and perhaps it may not be over just yet for my ambitions around the industry's response and approach towards Building Safety [and by that, I mean the 'normalisation' of the Golden Thread].








Credit: Team JOW



If I had to make one criticism, it would be the 'absence' of a cohort of young people, but I have since pledged further allegiance to Team JOW, - so (God wiling) this will be suitably addressed for #DCA2024.






It was great to be featured alongside the industry's best in class, across #DigitalConstruction leadership; I was and remain #humbled by the opportunity to participate in 2023. Very much looking forward to supporting such an amazing effort by Team JOW and delivering for the 'early adopters' across the sector; young people in tow.



Credit: Team JOW



“The Digital Construction Awards 2023 was another fantastic event, showcasing cutting edge innovation from across the industry. As well as high profile projects like HS2, Laing O’Rourke’s Everton Stadium and Sir Robert McAlpine’s Elizabeth Tower renovation, it was great to see the judges recognising companies and individuals from across the whole construction supply chain, with L Lynch Plant Hire winning the health and safety award and FM Conway business analyst Lauren Parson picking up the rising star accolade.” _ Will Mann



Credit: Team JOW










"It's a pleasure and a privilege to present the awards. It was fantastic to see so many people in the room. There may have been only 12 winners last night, but every shortlisted entry showcased how construction is moving forward. And finally I got a selfie with Bola!" _ Justin Stanton






“When we launched the awards we really wanted to celebrate the amazing work being done in the built environment. Everyone in the room last night is in some way responsible for changing the way we design, build, and manage our built assets for the better. We talk a lot about transformation as if it’s something we all just do. But it’s hard, it takes a lot of work and determination to change the way an industry operates. The winners, the shortlist and those in the room are all out there making it happen. It’s an amazing feeling to be able to put on an event that really celebrates and recognises their efforts.” _ Ollie Hughes




Credit: Team JOW



Like I said, the event was a client facing 'Who's Who' and it was great to see figures such as Neil Pennell of Landsec who with projects such as the Forge, are clearly leading the way in digital construction .......








And really good to connect with colleagues in the academic space, where pragmatism remains at the core of all that they do. Having the privilege of a conversation with industry leading experts like Prof Jacqui Glass, Vice Dean Research, Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment - was a both inspiring and enlightening. I look forward to collaborating wit Prof, in this space in the not too distant future!!









Just a few members of my #DigitalConstruction family, 'The Philpster', EE-PaulW and_H-Fenby-Taylor' ..... we whistle while we serve ........





But the night of 4th July 2023, was destined to be owned by a single individual who I have to admit I have found quite a challenge in years gone by. However, I soon found out, that in fact that was [and still is!] her unique management style. Yes, the infamous, Su Butcher was duly recognised by all and honoured as the Digital Construction Champion for 2023 .....!!



On stage to receive her award, whilst still in shock!



We thank you Su, for all that you do and have done thus far ..........







Notwithstanding, I have had the pleasure of meeting so many people on my journey - but I have and maintain a very special relationship with Liz Male MBE. A real people-person, Liz celebrated 20years in the game last month and again, I was humbled by the kind invitation to attend her milestone event ...........





Such a great champion and 'empathetic' business leader ......





........ it was a wonderful event, attended by the great and the good, including my dear friend Mark Farmer.




So, perhaps, you will take note on what may have been unintentionally missed; and God willing, see you there next year at DCA2024, perhaps even as a shortlist attendee?



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