Big News, Tribe! Welcome to Novatr: The Next Chapter of Oneistox

We are at the beginning of a new chapter for AEC, and it’s a new chapter for our company too. 

The World is on Turbo Mode

Over the last few decades, technology has dramatically transformed the way we imagine, design, construct, and manage our built environment. We’ve gone from 2D drawings to digital twins; from paper plans to the metaverse; from traditional settlements to ‘15-minute’ cities. We can now walk through simulations of our designs and digitally inhabit and experience built environments. But this is just the beginning.

The next phase of AEC will be even more life-changing. It’s a thrilling time to be an architect or engineer. A house on the Moon in the Metaverse, structures that defy the very concept of gravity, and cities designed and conceived using algorithms—in this future charged by technology, these will all be achievable realities. The possibilities are endless, and the excitement is palpable.

The next phase of AEC will be even more life-changing.

However, amidst this dynamic disruption, there is an unsettling reality that looms large. The younger generation of architects, engineers, and designers, who hold the key to shaping the future of AEC, are grappling with a multitude of challenges. Poor salaries and pervasive industry exploitation have cast a shadow over their aspirations, weighing heavily on their shoulders. Many of them are disillusioned and seek escape routes to other fields that promise a brighter future.

Even those who remain committed to the world of AEC face hurdles in accessing better opportunities. They yearn for guidance and resources to navigate the complex landscape of the industry and carve out a meaningful career path. As the AEC industry hurtles towards an era fueled by technology, it is crucial that we don't lose sight of the plight of young talent, who hold the key to unlocking the industry’s full potential.

A Story Close To Home

To us, the founders of Oneistox, the harsh reality of the industry came as a rude shock. Fresh out of college in 2018, we were brimming with excitement as we set out to build the world as architects. But soon, we realised that our education had not fully prepared us for the challenges of the real world, and many of our peers were also struggling to navigate the complex and confusing landscape of the AEC industry. To make matters worse, opportunities were scarce and exploitation was rampant. Something didn't feel right.

Our architectural education had not fully prepared us for the challenges of the real world.

Fast forward to 2019, and we took matters into our own hands. We founded Oneistox with a singular focus: to help architects and engineers secure a better life. Inspired by the infinite potential of growth and change, we set out to revolutionise the way learning happens in the AEC industry. We questioned the traditional methods of education, reimagined the process of learning itself, and embraced a tech-first approach to propel the industry towards a brighter future.

How did we make that happen?

• We built an immersive community learning program that brought together cohorts of up to 500 individuals from over 50 countries, offering a truly global perspective on learning. Through this program, we fostered a collaborative and inclusive environment where architects and engineers could learn from each other, share their experiences, and gain invaluable insights from diverse perspectives.

• We also developed a gamified project-building experience that allows learners to construct large-scale infrastructure in a simulated environment. This innovative approach to learning not only proved to be effective in imparting technical skills, but also made the process enjoyable, igniting a sense of curiosity among the learners.

• In addition, Oneistox has been working to solve the hiring needs of tech-first organisations in the AEC industry. By organising placement drives of upskilled candidates, we've been able to significantly reduce the typical search time by a remarkable 87.5%.

Also read: From the Founders’ Desk: Our Journey So Far

We reimagined the process of learning itself and embraced a tech-first approach.

The Need to Think Bigger

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the built environment, zoom out, and take a macro perspective on things, it has become clear that simply revamping the education and training of AEC professionals is not enough. The real challenge lies in transforming the industry itself from the inside out.

We’ve found that the AEC space is plagued by fragmentation, with a reluctance to embrace new technologies. While other industries such as manufacturing, shipping, insurance, oil and gas, and agriculture have experienced significant changes in the last two decades, AEC has lagged behind in this era of rapid change. Remarkably, the AEC sector still resembles its former self from 20 years ago in terms of tools, workflows, and operations. Despite this stagnation, the industry invests a paltry 1.5% of its revenue in technology, an astounding 55% less than other sectors. 

AEC has lagged behind in this era of rapid change.

Armed with this understanding, we have embarked on a mission to revolutionise the entire AEC industry. We are convinced that progress cannot be achieved if talent and industries remain entrenched in outdated practices. Our resolve is unwavering as we strive to pull the industry from its current slump, and usher in a future characterised by improved processes, greater opportunities, and better lives for all stakeholders. The time has come to unlock the full potential of transformation in the AEC industry, and we are committed to doing whatever it takes to make this vision a reality.

Enter Novatr: The New and Improved Us! 

Novatr is poised to be the bridge between the dreams of the future and the skills we need to make those dreams a reality. We are a platform that provides insider experience and industry expertise, so you can get the real knowledge, skills, and exposure architects and engineers need to grow. With access to tools, technology, and expert mentors, Novatr is like having a secret weapon in your back pocket. 

As we leave behind Oneistox and embrace our new identity as Novatr, we have a redefined mission – We exist to fill the innovation gap in AEC by honing the power of human potential and building tech-first skills.

Also read: Come Say Hi! A Bold Logo for a Bold Team

How will we make that happen?

• Crafting a future of education for the AEC industry, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) facilitations. Our goals are founded on Collaboration, Globalization, and Innovation - with the latter serving as the basis for all our endeavours.

• Establishing research labs across various geographies in the world. These labs will explore the cutting-edge domains of fabrication technology, materials of the future, and seamless collaboration across the project lifecycle. Such ventures are poised to revolutionise the AEC industry and provide a fertile breeding ground for the next generation of innovators.

• Our ultimate aim is to accelerate the adoption of technology in the AEC industry at large and steer it towards a more innovation-led ecosystem. With our passion for excellence and unbridled zeal, Novatr is set to carve out a unique space in the annals of modern education and industry.

We exist to fill the innovation gap in AEC by honing the power of human potential and building tech-first skills. 

We don't know about you, but we're over the moon with excitement. The future is bright, and we're ready to take the AEC industry by storm!