Leadership development remains an important part of building long-term capacity across the architecture, engineering and construction sector. STV vice president and project executive Raoul Ilaw has joined the board of directors of Fortitude, a nonprofit organisation focused on preparing emerging professionals for leadership roles in the built environment.
Ilaw works within STV’s program management and construction management team. His appointment adds experienced construction management leadership to Fortitude’s efforts to connect early-career and developing professionals with established industry practitioners.
Fortitude’s leadership development programme connects emerging AEC professionals with experienced industry leaders through mentorship, professional development, networking and scholarship opportunities. The organisation aims to help participants strengthen their leadership capabilities and build professional relationships across the sector.
These initiatives provide a structured pathway for developing future leaders in an industry that relies on coordination among owners, designers, construction managers and contractors. Professional development programmes can help emerging practitioners prepare for broader responsibilities in project delivery and organisational management.
Ilaw brings decades of industry and project experience, along with longstanding involvement in the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). He is a CMAA Fellow and has held leadership positions within the association and its Construction Manager Certification Institute.
As chair of the institute’s Board of Governors, Ilaw helped lead the development of the Certified Associate Construction Manager credential. The certification provides a pathway for construction management professionals seeking to advance into positions with greater project and programme responsibilities.
Fortitude’s board appointment highlights the role of industry leaders in supporting professional development beyond individual organisations. For contractors, construction managers, engineering firms and project owners, stronger leadership pipelines can support succession planning and the development of professionals capable of managing complex projects.
Ilaw’s experience in program and construction management, together with his work on professional certification, aligns with the organisation’s focus on preparing emerging AEC professionals for leadership responsibilities.
Source: STV.
