‘Let’s catch up over JCTea’ is an initiative developed by JCT’s Young Professionals Group (YPG), to promote networking and get to know new members by way of an informal monthly catch up.
The scheme pairs up members who have signed up to take part each month at random for a short informal catch up of around 15-20 minutes.
The idea behind the initiative is to introduce new members, get conversations flowing, learn about some of the different disciplines that make up YPG (and JCT) membership, and learn about some of the work that individual members are involved with.
Members are free to structure their conversations and talk about whatever they wish, however topics of conversation could include, ‘where they work and what do they do?’, ‘how are JCT contracts used in their workplace/business?’, ‘what are they doing to maintain good health and wellbeing?’, ‘where do they see themselves in 5/10 years?’, ‘what advice would they give others who are starting out their career in this sector?’.
The scheme is set up so that the meetings will take place initially online but can take place face-to-face if desired and geographically practicable. Once a monthly meeting has taken place, the group will once again be randomised and paired up for a new meeting the next month.
The benefits of the scheme in summary, include:
- Networking opportunity with fellow members and JCT professionals;
- Meet virtually before face-to-face activities to establish better connections;
- Health and wellbeing check-in;
- Share best practice;
- Contribute towards CPD.
If you, any of your colleagues, or employees are in the first ten years of their construction career and are interested in joining the JCT YPG, or taking part in the ‘Let’s catch up over JCTea’ initiative, visit ypg.jctltd.co.uk to find out more.
YPG – Activities Update
The YPG has been busy over the last year with a number of virtual webinars and members’ talks. Just like the YPG membership, guest speakers have come from a variety of disciplines across the construction industry and have provided talks on a wide range of topics.
So far, our events have included:
JCT Insurance Options
Hosted by Mark Pantry, senior associate, Fenwick Elliott and YPG founder member leader
Grenfell and the Draft Building Safety Bill
Hosted by Michael Haste, director, Pascall+Watson and JCT Board member
A Consideration of 3 Relevant Construction Matters
Hosted by Su Sharma, solicitor to Skanska UK Plc
The Future of Construction
Presented by Rob Horne Partner, Head of Construction and Engineering Disputes & Risk, UK, and Tom Andrews, Senior Associate, UK, Osborne Clarke
Construction Insurance 101
Hosted by Ryan Bond, associate, Gallagher
The Role of Digitalisation in Building a Safer Future
Presented by Dr. Marzia Bolpagni, building engineer and head of BIM International, Mace
Construction and Engineering Projects – What can I do to avoid disputes?
Presented by Tom Hawkins, director (construction solutions), FTI Consulting
As well as continuing the range of digital events, the YPG is also gearing up to host its first in-person networking event, featuring a talk from Anjali Pindoria, project surveyor, Avi Contracts Ltd, on How to be a Change Maker in a Diversifying Industry.
Find out more about the YPG, taking part in networking events, and how to join by visiting ypg.jctltd.co.uk.
