11.12.2024 | Aluminium Association

As part of the business agenda of the 7th International Forum 'Low-rise Russia 2024', Irina Kazovskaya, speaking at the round table 'Personnel Is Everything', raised the topic of effective development of human resources in our country, as well as of the building of skills and competencies that meet the current and future needs of aluminium-consuming industries. She highlighted the necessity to revise educational standards and programmes to enhance skills in using innovative high-tech materials and to establish a system to encourage talented young people to engage in scientific and creative pursuits in architecture, urban planning and construction.

The speaker highlighted that the Aluminium Association, in collaboration with construction companies, swiftly develops new world-class products and technologies for various construction purposes. Innovative aluminium products are used in executing national projects, housing construction, the renovation and reconstruction of public spaces, as well as in the development of urban and transport infrastructure.

'Aluminium has only recently made a large-scale entry into the Russian market as a construction material, yet it has already achieved widespread recognition, similar to its reception globally. Due to the consistent implementation of a promising programme for standardisation in the aluminium industry, there are currently no restrictions in the standards and codes of practice for the use of aluminium in construction. Today, the industry is actively involved in developing a regulatory and technical framework for modular construction. This process is led by the Ministry of Construction of the Russian Federation. The younger generation must have all the know-how in architecture, design and construction,' stated Irina Kazovskaya, Chair of the Aluminium Association.

At the round table, it was suggested to augment the curriculum with subjects on design and construction with the use of aluminium alloys to train personnel in the operation of buildings and structures, which is directly linked to the life cycle of buildings and the cost of owning a building or structure. 'Today, there is a shortage of special courses, programmes and study hours on materials science in higher education institutions. Therefore, graduates often lack sufficient knowledge about aluminium and working with it. Today's economy necessitates the use of innovative materials. The development of advanced technologies and innovations is impossible without the use of aluminium and its alloys. The main criterion for gauging the innovation value of any product is the material it is made of,' said Irina Kazovskaya.

The speakers concurred that within the education system framework that prepares personnel for the industry, it is essential to enhance the skills of faculty and experts, implement practice-oriented educational programmes and promote startups and innovative entrepreneurial developments related to the industry.

The 7th International Forum 'Low-rise Russia 2024' is being held in Moscow on December 10-11 at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation. The Ministry of Construction of the Russian Federation supports the event.