The construction industry in South East Queensland is facing a pressing challenge as the demand for skilled professionals continues to surge in the lead up to Brisbane 2032. In light of this, FDB Commercial is proud to present the second iteration of Embrace Your Space, to bring together construction professionals, builders, sub-contractors, designers, and architects to discuss and strategise solutions for the current and future talent shortage in the region.

Taking place on Friday the 28th of July at The Frog’s Hollow Saloon, the event features renowned industry experts who will reveal the challenges they face in securing and retaining top talent and the strategies they're employing to tackle the talent crunch.

Embrace Your Space is an exceptional opportunity for construction professionals and business owners to network, exchange ideas, and collaborate on innovative approaches to industry issues. The event aims to foster a supportive community that shares a common goal of strengthening our unique industry in South East Queensland, all in an enjoyable setting with great food, drinks, and company.

Our MC is Walkley award-winning ABC journalist, Tegan Taylor, and our panellists are:

Nick Syrett, General Manager, IPD Group - Nick is a dynamic business leader with experience across general management, business development, strategy, business culture, and organisational change. He brings to the table a proven ability to attract, shape and retain high performing teams to deliver projects and business outcomes in complex, competitive, and geographically diverse markets. He will discuss the current talent shortage landscape and share his insights into attracting and retaining skilled professionals.

Alex du Plessis, Principal, ThomsonAdsett - As a highly accomplished architect, Alex understands the impact of talent scarcity on architectural firms. He leads ThomsonAdsett's design and visualisation nationally, and as a principal and part of senior leadership, he is responsible for business development and overseeing successful project delivery. He will highlight the unique challenges faced by designers and architects in the current environment and present innovative approaches to foster talent development and collaboration.

Bill Paton, Managing Director, Autex Acoustics - Bill brings his expertise as a leader of a major supplier to the construction industry to the discussion. He will share his experiences in managing the talent shortage crisis, including implementing training programs, cultivating a supportive work environment, and organisational development.

"We believe that by bringing together industry professionals and thought leaders, the next Embrace Your Space will ignite a collective effort to address the talent shortage in South East Queensland's construction industry," says Josh McGrory, General Manager of FDB Commercial. "This event serves as a platform to share knowledge, exchange best practices, and inspire collaboration, ultimately fostering a robust workforce for future growth."

Join us for an informative panel discussion with valuable insights and actionable strategies, great food, drinks, and company, and feel good doing it! – a portion of ticket sales for Embrace Your Space will be donated to MATES in Construction to help fund mental health awareness and training in the construction industry.

Book now, as spaces are strictly limited. We hope to see you there!

Dress code: Business Casual