VI International forum Human Capital in the Focus of Transformations 2025 was held November 25, 2025. The event gathered representatives from public authorities, international organizations, employers, educational facilities, professional associations, and public sector. It became a large platform for an open dialog about training the specialists capable of ensuring Ukraine’s competitiveness and economic recovery in the context of postwar challenges and digital transformation. ICEG’s representatives took part in the forum as well.

Pivotal topic of the forum was Ukraine’s integration in the European qualification framework, formation of a modern system of professional competencies, and strengthening the labor market’s role in modernization of the economy. Special attention was paid to the engineering and construction sector which is a defining one in the postwar recovery process.

It is worth reminding that ICEG members have elaborated six professional standards for different specialties of engineers in construction. Five of them are linked to consequence classes of construction facilities, which are determined by the EU regulations and stipulated in the Ukrainian legislation. Such an approach makes an essential difference in requirements for engineers in construction from those in other sectors of the economy. ICEG is grateful to the National Qualifications Agency and trade union of builders for a professional and fundamental approach to working on draft versions of these standards.

A central point of the agenda was a report by Ursula Renold, professional training researcher from Switzerland, who presented deliverables of the study “The role of education in post-disaster reconstruction.”

Oleksandr Nepomnyashchyy, President of ICEG, has commented on some aspects covered in Dr. Renold’s presentation. First, it is absolutely clear that our participants were involved in the congress as the published results of studies demonstrate that over 29% of general demand for new competencies falls on construction, which is the biggest number among the economy sectors. Second, the study’s conclusion is understood as it states that confirmation of qualifications should be conducted by sectors, considering specific market needs and competencies the candidates already have, which allows filling the market with qualified specialists faster and mitigates the risks of incompetence of certified persons.

It should be noted that two of six professional standards prepared by ICEG members are based on the principle of taking into account the previous qualifications of candidates. This demonstrates an approach to professional development of responsible staff, which is similar to the European one and confirms orientation on modern international practices.

Incidentally, this issue was also discussed during the meeting of ICEG’s leaders, members and partners that took place November 21 and was dedicated to the topic “Development of engineering activities and prevention of corruption risks in Ukraine recovery projects.”

The Interstate Consultants Engineers Guild will continue to:
• promote the formation of a modern system of professional standards in construction and engineering industries;
• participate in the initiatives aimed at developing human capital and enhancing professional competence;
• support implementation of international approaches that ensure transparency, quality, and trust to professional activities.

Building up the human capital, including engineering professions, is one of priority factors of a successful reconstruction of Ukraine, its modernization and strengthening the European vector of development.

Ihor Vlasenko, Chairman of the Board, Association of Construction Industry Experts, ICEG member.