The world of work is undergoing a seismic shift, accelerated by technological advancements particular in AI, societal changes, and global disruptions from pandemics and wars.

Senior managers in facilities management, construction, and the trades are uniquely positioned to feel the effects of these changes, as their industries rely heavily on a skilled and adaptable workforce.

According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, these shifts are not just coming—they are already here.

In this article, we’ll delve into the key findings from the report and explore how these trends will impact your industry, your teams, and your strategies.

A Changing Workforce: Trends to Watch

The Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights several key employment trends that are reshaping industries globally. These include:

Automation and Digitalisation: Technology continues to replace repetitive and manual tasks, leading to the rise of hybrid roles that require both technical and human-centric skills.
Shift to Project-Based Work: The rise of freelancing, subcontracting, and gig work reflects a broader move away from traditional, long-term employment contracts.
Skills Gaps and Re-skilling: While technology creates new opportunities, it also leaves gaps in the labour market, requiring a focus on up-skilling and lifelong learning.
Remote and Flexible Work: Hybrid work models have become the norm in many sectors, offering flexibility but also introducing new challenges in managing distributed teams.

For managers in facilities management, construction, and the trades, these trends bring both opportunities and challenges. Let’s explore their specific implications.

1. The Rise of Automation: Redefining Roles

Automation has long been a topic of discussion in industries with repetitive tasks. In construction, for example, technologies like drones, robotics, and 3D printing are automating surveying, masonry, and even house-building. Similarly, in facilities management, IoT-enabled systems are streamlining maintenance and monitoring.

However, automation doesn’t just eliminate jobs—it transforms them. Roles that once centred on manual tasks are now evolving to require technological expertise. For example, a facilities manager might now oversee AI-driven maintenance systems rather than manually checking equipment.

What can senior managers do?

Identify areas where automation can enhance efficiency without compromising quality.
Invest in training to help employees adapt to new technologies.
Prioritise roles that combine human judgement with technological skills.

2. Project-Based Work: The Era of the Gig Economy

One of the most profound shifts is the move towards project-based work. The Future of Jobs Report 2025 predicts that gig and freelance work will continue to grow, especially in industries like construction and the trades. For employers, this offers flexibility, enabling them to bring in specialised talent for short-term needs.

However, this shift also comes with challenges. Managing a distributed workforce of subcontractors requires new approaches to collaboration, communication, and accountability. Tools like Okappy’s market network can play a vital role in ensuring seamless communication across a network of employees, subcontractors, and clients.

How to adapt:

Embrace flexible workforce models to address fluctuating project demands.
Implement technology platforms to improve visibility and streamline workflows across teams.
Establish clear guidelines and processes for working with subcontractors and gig workers.

3. Addressing Skills Gaps Through Re-skilling

The report highlights a growing skills mismatch across industries. While automation creates demand for technical roles, many workers lack the skills required for these positions. In construction, for instance, there’s increasing demand for roles in data analysis, BIM (Building Information Modelling), and sustainability practices.

Facilities management is also becoming more technical, requiring skills in IoT systems, energy management, and compliance with increasingly complex regulations.

Action points for senior managers:

Partner with training providers to up-skill existing employees.
Foster a culture of continuous learning to encourage professional growth.
Leverage government initiatives and industry programmes aimed at re-skilling the workforce.

4. Remote Work in Hands-On Industries

While remote work has become a staple in office-based roles, its implications for industries like construction and the trades are less straightforward. On-site work remains essential, but there’s increasing scope for remote monitoring, virtual inspections, and digital project management.

For facilities management, hybrid work models have increased the complexity of managing shared spaces and assets. This has driven demand for smart systems that enable remote oversight and real-time data collection.

Strategies to stay ahead:

Implement digital tools to improve communication between on-site and remote workers.
Explore technologies that enable remote monitoring and management of assets.
Develop policies that balance flexibility with operational requirements.

5. Building Resilience in an Uncertain Future

The rapid pace of change underscores the need for resilience. As the Future of Jobs Report 2025 emphasises, industries must become more agile, adaptable, and innovative to stay competitive. For managers in facilities management, construction, and the trades, this means rethinking traditional ways of working and embracing new paradigms.

How Technology Can Help

Digital tools are no longer optional—they are essential for navigating the complexities of a changing workforce. Platforms like Okappy, designed to connect teams, subcontractors, and clients, are invaluable in ensuring transparency and collaboration.

By centralising communication, streamlining workflows, and offering real-time insights, these tools empower managers to stay in control, even in a rapidly evolving landscape.

The Road Ahead

Change is inevitable, but it also presents an opportunity for growth. Senior managers in facilities management, construction, and the trades have the chance to lead their industries into the future by embracing technology, investing in people, and fostering a culture of adaptability.

The Future of Jobs Report 2025 is a call to action. It’s a reminder that the industries that thrive will be those that adapt. With the right strategies and tools, your organisation can be at the forefront of this transformation—setting the standard for innovation, efficiency, and resilience in the years to come.

Ready to Future-Proof Your Business?

At Okappy, we’re passionate about helping industries adapt to change. Our market network platform connects you with employees, subcontractors, and clients, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration. If you’re ready to embrace the future of work, get in touch today and learn how we can help.