Blueprint for Progress: Insights into T&T’s Construction Sector
April 29th, 2026
Trinidad and Tobago’s construction sector is undergoing a transformation like never before. Complex projects, specialised expertise, and cutting-edge technology are rewriting the rules of building. At the forefront of this shift is Dr. Steve Rajpatty, Chairman and CEO of Atlantic Project Consultants Limited (APCL), who shares how innovation and collaboration are powering this bold new era.
Building Better with Specialised Knowledge
With decades of experience in the field, Dr. Rajpatty has witnessed firsthand an industry evolution: “Over the past 25 years, I have noticed a change in how projects are managed. The design and oversight of projects have become more complex, no longer handled by one or two engineers working on a major highway, such as the Sir Solomon Hochoy. In today’s industry, collaboration involves architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, and project managers—professionals who take their responsibilities seriously because contracts have become more rigorous, expanding the engineer’s role in project delivery.”
Another key driver of progress in the construction sector was increased access to advanced technical training and specialised qualifications. As professionals returned to Trinidad and Tobago —driven by growing local opportunities and a desire to contribute to national development— from countries such as the UK, Germany, Canada, and the United States, they brought with them expertise not just in traditional engineering, but also in niche areas like watercourse management, hydrology, and hydraulics. This accelerated local project delivery, reducing reliance on international consultants who needed time to adapt.
Smart Solutions for Sustainable Construction
The rise of innovative technology continues to drive progress in the construction sector. Building Information Modelling (BIM) systems now enable real-time collaboration, improving cost estimates and reducing the need for rework. Tools such as drones and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have also enhanced surveying capabilities. At APCL, high-tech systems enable geotechnical engineers and surveyors to save time and improve design accuracy. Although software tools represent a significant investment, the company views them as essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.
Dr. Rajpatty notes that the local construction industry is aligning with global sustainability trends by applying green building standards, enhancing energy efficiency, and improving climate resilience. “For example, the National Insurance Board of Trinidad and Tobago (NIBTT) building and its nearby campus exemplify the growing adoption of eco-friendly designs, having been LEED Gold Certified in 2016. Another significant development was the launch of the Energy Efficient Lighting Laboratory in 2022 by the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS). Furthermore, the Caribbean Green Infrastructure Conference (CGIC 2022) showcased innovations such as grass systems to mitigate erosion and manage rainwater effectively.”
Constructing a Resilient Tomorrow
While optimistic about the construction sector’s growth, APCL’s Chairman and CEO acknowledges ongoing challenges that must be proactively addressed to ensure its future success: “There is a shortage of experienced tradesmen and supervisory personnel. The solution lies in expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and promoting apprenticeship schemes. Additionally, some projects face unrealistic scheduling due to inadequate planning and design. This often leads to recurring payment delays, resulting in chronic late certification, which causes cash flow issues that limit capacity. To overcome this, procurement reforms must enforce timely public sector payments. Engineers overseeing projects can play a critical role by managing these processes and providing government departments with the necessary information to reduce delays in schedules and payments. Foreign exchange facilities also need to be extended to improve access to imported materials and equipment.”
Dr. Rajpatty emphasises the need to build stronger partnerships between the private and public sectors to drive and sustain future construction projects. He believes that engaging major developers—who have land and financial resources—early in the project feasibility phase is crucial for attracting increased private investment. By adopting this approach, the government can partner more effectively with private developers to drive transformative projects in the sector.
By Sheldon Waithe
