Uni Recognised for Excellence in Inclusion and Diversity

A partnership between the University of Bath and BIM4Water has been recognised for Excellence in Inclusion and Diversity at the national Digital Construction Live Awards.

The awards highlighted excellence in digital construction, where data and technologies are used to improve the planning, design, construction and operation of built infrastructure.

The partnership was recognised for research exploring how digital technologies can enhance the employment prospects of neurodivergent individuals, helping them access and thrive in the workplace.

“It’s an honour to see this partnership recognised nationally,” said Dr Susan Lattanzio, Deputy Director of the Centre for People-Led Digitalisation, who led the project for the University of Bath.

“The award reflects the power of bringing diverse expertise together to advance inclusive digital transformation, and the importance of working alongside industry partners who are determined to drive meaningful change.”

Working in a co-creative partnership, BIM4Water and the University of Bath’s Centre for People-Led Digitalisation explored how digital innovations can empower neurodivergent individuals in the workplace and give employers the tools they need to recruit more inclusively and address skills shortages.

BIM4Water is a not-for-profit forum leading the digital transformation of the water sector in the UK through Better Information Management (BIM).

With up to 27,000 vacancies expected in the water sector by 2029 and almost half the workforce nearing retirement, the need for diverse talent is critical.

Despite this, research shows 85–90% of neurodivergent adults are unemployed or underemployed.

Pictured: Dr Susan Lattanzio (right) and Clare Taylor, Chair of BIM4Water