Barbados’ construction sector is being called to think bigger, build smarter and train better.
That was the rallying cry at the launch of the 2025 Barbados Annual Construction and Design Conference, where industry leaders and educators urged a bold rethink of how the island builds, both physically and professionally.
The conference, now in its fourth year, will run from September 24 to 26 at Sandals Royal Barbados, with a new awards dinner on September 27.
Organised by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council, the event will spotlight cutting-edge trends like smart infrastructure, green building materials, and AI-driven project management.
TVET Council Chairman Dr Albert Best said the theme, Integrating Technology into Quality Construction, reflects urgent global shifts, from climate change to labour shortages. But for small island states like Barbados, he noted, the stakes are even higher.
“We face limited natural resources, vulnerable coastlines and economic constraints that make resilience and efficiency non-negotiable,” he said.
“Technology can help us build smarter, faster and more sustainably, but only if our professionals are equipped with the right knowledge, skills and tools. That’s where the Barbados Annual Construction and Design Conference comes in.”
Minister of Educational Transformation Chad Blackman echoed the call for innovation, urging Barbados to embrace bold design and reimagine its technical education system. He pointed to countries like Singapore and Rwanda as examples of how vision and resilience can transform national development.
Architecture and design aren’t just about buildings, Blackman said, noting they “capture the spirit of a country and serve as an inspiration to any nation”.
The conference will feature expert panels, student showcases, technical tours and workshops on everything from building information modelling to sustainable design.
Industry partners include Sherwin-Williams, BRC West Indies, the Barbados Institute of Architects, and the Barbados Association of Professional Engineers. (SZB)
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