Building’s annual 40 Under 40 returns to celebrate the young professionals already making their mark on the built environment

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From site managers and architects to sustainability consultants and data specialists, this year’s 40 Under 40 brings together some of the most promising talent working in construction today.

Nominations came in from every corner of the industry in recent months, and the final list reflects the sheer breadth of disciplines that keep the sector moving.

What unites the class of 2026 is how quickly they have taken on responsibility, and how much purpose they find in their work. Their stories make a compelling case for construction as a career that rewards ambition early.

They are also candid about the obstacles. Some have faced bias and stereotyping, some came into the industry after changing careers, and others stepped into high-pressure roles at an early stage in their careers.

How they handled those challenges offers useful lessons for an industry still grappling with skills shortages. The sector needs more joined-up ways of working, and it must do more to open its doors to people from a wider range of backgrounds, and to keep them once they arrive.

Building has a part to play too. Over the coming year we will be turning to our 40 rising stars to help shape our coverage and make sure the next generation’s voice is heard.

Click on each of the 40 profiles below to find out more about their careers.