The Construct Innovate IndEx (Industry Exchange Day) took place in the Radisson Blue, Athlone, on Thursday, March 27th.
IndEx 2025 was first out of the series of meetings that present a great opportunity to network with fellow members and discover collaboration and funding opportunities through industry-led research projects.
During the Information Session 1 our speakers: Professor Jamie Goggins (Director of Construct Innovate) and Colm McHugh (Construct Innovate Manger), Gary Greenan and Maria Salto Galdon (Enterprise Ireland) presented funding opportunities available through Construct Innovate, as well as and explain other funding opportunities supported by Construct Innovate and available to construction sector.
In the Information Session 2 three selected industry-led research projects were presented by Brett Chrystal (D/RES), Harrison Ikhumhen (University of Galway) and Paddy Mahon (Framespace).
Head of Sustainable Design
Brett has 25 years practice as a Project Architect in South Africa, during which he completed largescale projects across the Retail, Office, Hospitality, and Mixed-Use Residential sectors.
Having moved to Ireland in 2022, Brett operated as a Development Manager for D/RES Properties for 2 years, with responsibilities including planning applications, pre-construction strategy and design development, before being appointed as Head of Sustainable Design in 2024.
As Head of Sustainable Design at D/RES properties Brett is responsible for the company wide sustainable strategy for new construction projects from planning inception through pre-construction, including build methodology and innovation, and with oversight of the long term environmental, social and governance issues pertaining to the projects.
Research Assistant at the University of Galway, School of Engineering
Harrison holds a PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering from the University of Science and Technology Beijing. His expertise lies in environmental sustainability, socio-ecological systems analysis, and remote sensing applications. His research explores climate vulnerability, coastal wetland resilience, and ESG-based sustainability assessments. Currently, he is developing an ESG framework for the construction industry in collaboration with Gunn Lennons Fabrication, Dublin, focusing on sustainability roadmaps and decarbonization strategies for operations, products, and services. Dr. Ikhumhen has over 20 peer-reviewed publications and his work bridges environmental science, data analytics, and policy frameworks, making him a valuable contributor to global sustainability efforts.
Head of Design and Engineering
Paddy holds a degree in Environmental Engineering and a Postgraduate Diploma in Construction Innovation, both from the University of Galway. With over a decade of experience working with Tier 1 Main Contractors in Ireland and internationally, delivering complex projects across the residential, commercial, and infrastructure sectors.
As Head of Design & Engineering at Framespace, Paddy leads the design team in project delivery and the development of advanced 2D and 3D light gauge steel systems. He is responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, overseeing system testing and certification, and driving innovation. With s strong emphasis on efficiency, sustainability, and buildability across all projects.
Series of workshops based on “Challenge Questions” carried during IndEx 2025:
1. How can digital tools and technologies, including AI, drive measurable improvements in construction productivity, quality control, safety and efficiency in project delivery and what are the barriers and risks to adoption?
Chaired by Professor Jamie Goggins (University of Galway)
2. What critical information about Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) systems is needed by developers, architects, and contractors to increase adoption, and how can decision-support tools effectively provide this information?
Chaired by Dr Daniel McCrum (UCD)
3. What solutions could be implemented in design and delivery of housing developments to improve utility and infrastructure delivery (including increasing productivity while decarbonising project delivery)?
Chaired by Dr Magdalena Hajdukiewicz (University of Galway)
All the participants of each workshop session have contributed valuable information to a very stimulating and boosting solutions conversation.
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