Shaping the Future of the Built Environment
The future of the built environment depends on the people who will lead its research, innovation, and practice in the decades ahead. The CIB Future Leaders Committee exists to support, connect, and inspire the next generation of researchers, academics, and industry professionals, creating opportunities for them to develop their skills, expand their networks, and contribute to solving the global challenges facing our sector.
Whether you are a student taking your first steps into research, an early career researcher building your international profile, or a young professional seeking to make an impact, CIB provides a global platform to learn, collaborate, and lead. Through our Future Leaders network, participants gain access to an international community that spans universities, research institutes, industry, and professional bodies across the world.
The Future Leaders Committee oversees a range of initiatives designed to nurture talent and create pathways for engagement within the CIB community.
Student Chapters
CIB Student Chapters provide opportunities for students to engage with the global research and innovation community from the earliest stages of their careers. Student Chapters foster collaboration, leadership, and international exchange, helping students build professional networks and develop an appreciation of the value of research and innovation in the built environment. Since the launch of the first Student Chapters in 1998, the network has continued to grow across the world. More information
Early Career Researchers (ECR) Network
The CIB Early Career Researchers Network connects researchers within the first years of their research careers, providing opportunities to engage with peers and leading experts from around the world. Through webinars, workshops, mentoring opportunities, collaborative research activities, and participation in CIB Working Commissions, the network helps members develop their research capabilities, international connections, and professional visibility. More information
Awards and Recognition
CIB is committed to celebrating excellence and supporting emerging talent. Through a range of awards and funding opportunities, including programmes for students and early career researchers, we recognise outstanding achievement, encourage innovation, and provide pathways for future leaders to gain international recognition for their work. These initiatives help turn promising ideas into impactful research and professional contributions that benefit the built environment worldwide. More information
Join a Global Community
Future Leaders are not simply the next generation of CIB members—they are active contributors to the future of the built environment today. By participating in a Student Chapter, joining the ECR Network, or applying for one of our awards and development programmes, you become part of a worldwide community committed to collaboration, innovation, and positive change.
We invite you to explore the opportunities available through the Future Leaders programme and discover how CIB can support your journey from emerging talent to future leader.