The Australian Institute of Building

EVOLVING MISSION Over the past few years, the AIB has undergone significant changes under the leadership of Executive Director Jeff Dart. When Dart joined the organization, one of his primary goals was to modernize the Institute and ensure its relevance in the contemporary construction landscape. “The last four years, when I came on board, we had to be progressive and inclusive because the association was stuck in the past,” Dart explains. His efforts have focused on making the AIB more relevant and inclusive, ensuring that it meets the needs of a modern and diverse workforce. The AIB initiated several progressive programs to address these challenges, including the Girls in Construction initiative. The program targets senior secondary school girls, encouraging them to pursue careers in the construction industry. “One of our problems in the industry is we don’t have enough women to be successful,” Dart emphasizes. The Girls in Construction program includes a five-day camp where participants build a shed, providing hands-on experience and fostering an early interest in construction careers. The initiative has garnered support from Australian federal and state governments, reflecting a broader commitment to increasing female participation in the industry. MEMBERSHIP GROWTH AND DIVERSITY The AIB’s membership structure is diverse, accommodating different experience levels and expertise. From fellows with over a decade of industry experience to student members who are just beginning their construction careers, the AIB ensures a broad membership base. The institute has seen a net increase of 5-6% in membership over the past four years, reflecting its successful efforts to attract and retain younger members while acknowledging the retirement of older members. Communication with members is a key priority for the AIB. The institute disseminates a monthly newsletter and a daily industry update, informing members about project developments, regulatory decisions, and other pertinent industry news. Additionally, the AIB hosts the Professional Excellence in Building Awards, an annual event celebrating outstanding 3 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06 THE AUSTRAL IAN INST I TUTE OF BUI LDING (AIB)