From hard hats to high-tech: Construction work is no longer labouring under the sun, says Wee Hur CEO
Construction, which is ripe for change, is where young graduates can most make their mark, Wee Hur CEO Andy Lu said.
Construction work in Singapore is undergoing a transformation from traditional labor to a technology-driven industry, according to Andy Lu, CEO of Wee Hur, a homegrown property and construction firm. Lu points out that the construction sector has evolved significantly over the years and is now seen as a technology business. This evolution has resulted in a shift away from labor-intensive work under the sun to using advanced technology wherever possible.
For instance, the firm uses robots, artificial intelligence, and 360-degree cameras to monitor progress and ensure safety on construction sites. The use of digital plans on tablets and AI-powered cameras to detect safety breaches have also become commonplace. Lu believes that these changes can help attract younger, tech-savvy workers to the construction industry, but acknowledges that there is still a long way to go in changing perceptions.
The construction sector is booming, with many projects such as ports, airports, data centers, and Build-To-Order flats requiring skilled workers. Wee Hur, which started in 1980 and was listed in 2008, is also experiencing growth, with revenue rising by 47% in 2025 and adjusted net profit increasing by 130% year on year. The company sees opportunities for further growth, particularly in housing projects to accommodate Singapore's ageing population.
Sustainability is another growing area in the construction industry, with Wee Hur using battery energy storage systems and exploring solar energy to reduce carbon emissions.
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