AECOM and UCL sign partnership to transform the science in major programme management
At the frontier of the built environment and programme management, AECOM and UCL are united by a common purpose of delivering a better world and providing sustainable legacies for future generations.
London – WEBWIRE – Monday, June 26, 2023
AECOM, the worlds trusted infrastructure consulting firm, today announced an innovative philanthropic partnership with University College London (UCL) to address the most urgent and complex societal challenges through programme management.
The partnershiplaunches the AECOM Infrastructure Scholarship Programme, supporting the next generation of infrastructure researchers through PhD scholarships. The scholarships will advance the science in topics related to infrastructure and programme management to deliver complex infrastructure solutions more sustainably, unlock value, and transform societies around the world.
It is a privilege to partner with UCL and embark on this scholarship programme which will have an impact on the future of infrastructure programmes, said Drew Jeter, chief executive of AECOMs Program Management global business line. What excites me about this opportunity is to truly make a significant and positive difference in how the next generation will approach and deliver programmes with an evidence based, solution-oriented, outcome driven and sustainable mindset. AECOM and UCL have a shared vision and commitment and I cant wait to begin this journey with such a great partner.
AECOMs Programme Management global business provides the structure, tools, techniques, and process to achieve the Companys purpose of delivering a better world. By connecting its technical expertise across services, markets, and geographies, it manages outcome-driven programmes that deliver social, economic, and environmental value.
The researchers will be based atThe UCL Megaproject Delivery CentreinThe Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction, and will leverage UCLs extensive research capabilities as one of the worlds top universities. Under the direction of Dr Juliano Denicol, The UCL Megaproject Delivery Centre develops research to change the delivery of major infrastructure projects, not only advancing strategies and metrics to improve project performance, but also emphasising the societal benefits of infrastructure development. The researchers will work closely with AECOMs Programme Management leadership to disseminate cutting-edge scientific findings and improve the delivery of major infrastructure programmes globally.
AECOM and UCL are writing history with this partnership to advance the science in Programme Management, said Dr. Juliano Denicol, Director, Megaproject Delivery Centre. It will support a diverse cohort of future leaders and create a platform to address global societal challenges through infrastructure delivery. Im absolutely thrilled with this effort to transform our industry through science and look forward to working closely with AECOMs Programme Management leadership over the next years.
Programme management leaders are often required to integrate expertise located in several silos (teams, technology, systems) across multiple organisational levels (client, programme partner, supply chain organisations), and phases of the project (development, delivery, operations). Integration and collaboration are key to unlock value in such complex and fast-paced environments.
The creation of such an integrated environment is essential to incorporate the right expertise from different teams at the right time. Such a combination of expertise is fundamental to addressing the urgent need to deliver major infrastructure programmes sustainably, with net zero and sustainability as a strategic driver and at the heart of decision-making.
The partnership between AECOM and UCL promises to transform sectors and communities through advancing the science of infrastructure projects, said Professor Christoph Linder, Dean,The Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment. Bringing together organisations at the forefront of the built environment and infrastructure programme management, AECOMs generous gift will accelerate knowledge creation and dissemination, bringing significant benefits to society and to the planet. The Bartlett is delighted to be part of this innovative partnership, united by a shared vision to build a better future.
We are thrilled to partner with AECOM and very grateful for the generous support for doctoral students in major infrastructure delivery and programme management at BSSC, said Professor DMaris Coffman, recent Director of The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction and incoming Vice Dean Innovation and Enterprise. I am very pleased about the strategic alignment between AECOMs vision to address the challenges of the 21st century through programme management and the research agenda of the UCL Megaproject Delivery Centre.
About AECOM
AECOM is the worlds trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, new energy and the environment, our public- and private-sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges. Our teams are driven by a common purpose to deliver a better world through our unrivaled technical and digital expertise, a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion, and a commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities.AECOMis a Fortune 500 firm and its Professional Services business had revenue of$13.1 billionin fiscal year 2022. See how we are delivering sustainable legacies for generations to come ataecom.comand @AECOM.
About UCL Londons Global University
UCL is a diverse global community of world-class academics, students, industry links, external partners, and alumni. Our powerful collective of individuals and institutions work together to explore new possibilities.
Since 1826, we have championed independent thought by attracting and nurturing the worlds best minds. Our community of more than 50,000 students from 150 countries and over 16,000 staff pursues academic excellence, breaks boundaries and makes a positive impact on real world problems.
We are consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the world and are one of only a handful of institutions rated as having the strongest academic reputation and the broadest research impact.
We have a progressive and integrated approach to our teaching and research championing innovation, creativity and cross-disciplinary working. We teach our students how to think, not what to think, and see them as partners, collaborators and contributors.
For almost 200 years, we are proud to have opened higher education to students from a wide range of backgrounds and to change the way we create and share knowledge.
We were the first in England to welcome women to university education and that courageous attitude and disruptive spirit is still alive today. We are UCL.
www.ucl.ac.uk|
About The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction
The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction is a world-class centre of learning and research in the economics and management of projects, in construction and beyond.
Located within The Bartlett at UCL, one of the oldest but most progressive faculties of its kind and the UKs largest multidisciplinary faculty of the built environment, it draws students and academics from across the world. The Bartlett was ranked the top institution in the UK for Architecture / Built Environment Subjects in the QS World University Rankings 2022.
Recognised globally as a centre for generating research and insight into the management of projects, the enterprises involved with such projects, and the associated economics and finance that can make a real difference to the delivery and improvement of our built environment.
The schools expertise in the managerial and economic dimensions of the construction process stretches back more than 40 years to when the original degree programme was established. Today, the team of academics is one of the most accomplished to be found with well-established reputations as leaders in their fields.
Members of the OPC Team at Toms River Pride TOMS RIVER, N.J. – June 20, 2023 – PRLog — In honor of Pride and Immigrant Heritage Month, Ocean Partnership for Children (OPC) actively participated in community events celebrating diversity and fostering unity. “OPC is committed to helping foster a society that embraces every individual, regardless of their background, orientation, or origin,” stated Mary Jo Buchanan, LCSW, MPA, Executive Director of OPC. On June 4, OPC proudly marched in the Asbury Park Pride parade alongside mental health agencies, healthcare agencies, supportive businesses, community groups and members and LGBTQ+ entertainers. Additionally, OPC participated in and sponsored Toms River Pride with a resource table on June 10. Both events provided robust resources to attendees and opportunities for organizations and groups to collaborate with one another to best serve and support the community. “Pride events like Toms River Pride and Asbury Park Pride are so important to the LGBTQ+ community. They are a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and instill hope and acceptance for queer members of the community. Additionally, these events increase awareness for the LGBTQ+ community and the issues they face,” stated Kaitlin Lord, OPC Community Resource and Social Media Specialist and YAS Coordinator/ Menges and Lord proudly represented OPC at a roundtable community discussion led by Congressman Gottheimer on LBGTQ+ youth and the barriers that impact them. OPC is an active and strong advocate on all levels for youth and families to ensure our community is an accepting and equitable place for all. OPC also had a presence at the 2023 Immigrant Heritage Celebration, facilitated by Community Ambassadors of Ocean County on June 3 at the Church of Grace and Peace. Families from around the world came together to share in a day of food, fun and information on health and wellness. OPC was represented with a resource table, providing families with a deeper understanding of care management services and information on accessing this help for their youth. “As families visited the OPC table, they exchanged smiles, stories about their journey to the United States and took part in craft activities, painting garden stones with an image or words that bring them happiness,” explained Rosbel Aguilar, MA, LPC, NCC, OPC Care Manager Supervisor and Ocean County Latino Engagement Group Member representing OPC. “Often families will share that they walk away from these events with gratitude and a greater sense of connection and inclusion,” continued Aguilar. “Attending and participating in these events guides us in our mission of enhancing the well-being of youth and their families through natural and community supports.” OPC’s commitment to acceptance, empowerment and inclusion does not end in June. OPC strives to educate and foster equal opportunities that promote growth for all while ensuring every individual is included and has a voice. OPC is a member of the recently formed Ocean County Latino Engagement Group, which addresses the more recent increase of new immigrants to Ocean County, many being Latino. The group is a coalition of Ocean County agencies including: Ocean County Youth Services Commission, Ocean County Children’s Inter-Agency Coordinating Council, Ocean County Human Services, Ocean County Prosecutors Office, Lakewood High School, Community Ambassadors, OPC, Ocean County PIC, RWJ Barnabas Institute for Prevention and Ocean County Family Support Organization, among other agencies. Through support groups, OPC is constant resource and advocate for the youth and families of Ocean County. OPC partners with PFLAG Jersey Shore offering Your Authentic Self (YAS) LGTBQ+ youth support groups in conjunction with PFLAG’s adult support groups. These groups are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 6:30-8:00pm. OPC is committed to developing an agency and community where all individuals feel safe being present as their authentic, whole selves and to challenging those systems, institution, and practices that do not support this goal. Diversity, equity and inclusion are the definitive principles that guide how OPC serves youth and families, cultivates community relationships and creates an agency where everyone, regardless of gender, race, gender identity, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, education, disability, citizenship, veteran status, or other dimension of diversity, feels welcome, valued and respected. About Ocean Partnership for Children Inc. Ocean Partnership for Children is a non-profit organization available at no cost to all youth and families in Ocean County who meet the eligibility criteria of the New Jersey Children’s System of care. To learn more, visit https://www.oceanpartnership.org. Montreal – WEBWIRE – Friday, May 5, 2023
The National Film Board of Canada and the Indigenous Screen Office (ISO) are pleased to announce the winners of the inaugural Immersive/Interactive Producer Fellowship at the NFB. They are Claudia Skunk, wholl be working in English at the Animation & Interactive Studio in Vancouver, and Neegan Siou Trudel, wholl be working in French at the Interactive Studio in Montreal. The six-month program aims to develop expertise in the fields of VR, XR, AI and games, and to tap into the exciting job opportunities available in this growing area of production. Quotes As an emerging Indigenous producer, I was thrilled to learn I was selected to be part of the NFB immersive and interactive fellowship. Im excited to learn and deepen my skills from the many talented NFB producers and creatives, and I plan to reciprocate new ideas and meaningful collaboration. Claudia Skunk Im very happy to be able to collaborate with and learn from NFB producers. This is a great opportunity to broaden my professional network and become more involved with the interactive media ecosystem. Im looking forward to sharing my knowledge with future collaborators. Neegan Siou Trudel About Claudia Skunk and Neegan Siou Trudel Claudia Skunk is an Anishinaabekwe from Mishkeegogamang First Nation. She has spent several years with the imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival and is now furthering her passion for working with organizations and people who uplift Indigenous voices on documentary series like Amplify and Treaty Road. Neegan Siou Trudel is a Wendat emerging producer whos worked on a number of documentary projects. In 2022, he completed the EAVE On Demand Access Program, an international co-production program. He started his own production company in January 2023, after working as a 2D and 3D director and animator for companies including the renowned Moment Factory. 30 About the NFB The NFB is Canadas public producer and distributor of award-winning documentaries, auteur animation, interactive stories, and participatory experiences. Since 1968, the NFB has produced over 300 works by First Nations, Mtis and Inuit filmmakersan unparalleled collection that pushes past dominant narratives and provides Indigenous perspectives to Canadian and global audiences. The NFB is implementing anaction planwith commitments that include devoting a minimum of 15 percent of overall production spending to Indigenous-led productions and making these works more accessible viaIndigenous Cinema, a destination onNFB.ca. About the Indigenous Screen Office The Indigenous Screen Office (ISO) is an independent national advocacy and funding organization serving First Nations, Inuit and Mtis creators of screen content in Canada. The ISOs mandate is to foster and support narrative sovereignty and cultural revitalization by increasing Indigenous storytelling on screens and promoting Indigenous values and participation across the sector. French version here | Version franaise ici.
Family Promise of the Jersey Shore partners with Walters Apartments Group to offer support to residents. MANAHAWKIN, N.J. – April 18, 2023 – PRLog — Walters Apartments Group, a leader in affordable real estate development and Family Promise of the Jersey Shore (FPJS) continue to strengthen their partnership to prevent homelessness in Ocean County. In 2020, FPJS first approached Walters Apartments Group to partner with the Anchors to Stay Prevention Program. The Anchor to Stay program allows eligible families to receive financial aid on rent, mortgage, or security deposit payments. Families also have access to a curriculum focused on stability and further prevention of homelessness. “By partnering with companies like Walters Apartments Group, we are able to significantly increase our impact to help prevent even more families and children from experiencing the trauma of homelessness,” Walters Apartment Group develops and manages affordable and market-rate apartment communities with a commitment to service, quality and value. Fostering a sense of community is reflected by The Walters Group’s dedication to philanthropy – a commitment that is emulated by residents at communities throughout the company’s portfolio. “With over 12 affordable family communities in New Jersey, Walters Apartments Group is an advocate and ally in the prevention of homelessness,” The partnership between FPJS and Walters Apartments has continued to grow over the last three years. “At Christmas, FPJS sponsors families within our communities, they have also provided us with Easter baskets. FPJS has been beyond generous with Holiday Food Baskets for Thanksgiving and Christmas,” noted Jennifer Pampalone, BSW, Social Services Coordinator at Walters Apartments Group. “The supplement to our onsite food pantries continues throughout the year when they have extra food. When FPJS calls to offer food, I clear my schedule because what they offer is beyond generous.” “FPJS’s main goal is to ensure the people we serve do not fall into the cycle of housing instability that can devastate families and alter the course of children’s lives. With partners like Walters Apartments Group, FPJS can address prevention and education within the communities and offer the necessary support to help the Jersey Shore community thrive,” said Golla. “Eviction is always our last resort. Knowing that FPJS is working to prevent evictions and to hold families accountable is a commendable thing. They don’t just offer money to families and wish them well. They offer a variety of services to get to the root issue and work alongside families to overcome the issue, for example, financial literacy, resume writing, education and job preparedness. They work to improve the quality of life, not just today, but for the future,” said Pampalone. FPJS works every day to help homeless and low-income families achieve sustainable independence. On April 20th, FPJS will participate in Family Promise Giving Day, a 24-hour national campaign to combat homelessness. “We’re asking friends to “Give an Hour” whether that’s an hour of time volunteering, an hour’s worth of salary as a donation, or an hour spent raising awareness about the crisis of family homelessness,” About Walters About Family Promise of the Jersey Shore TOMS RIVER, N.J. – April 11, 2023 – PRLog — Ocean Partnership for Children (OPC) is celebrating Autism Awareness throughout the month of April with a variety of internal and community events. Internally, the OPC team is increasing awareness while raising funds for POAC Autism Services, providing a variety of services to youth, parents and families. Melinda Santiago-Owens, MA, IDD Certified, one of OPC’s Care Manager Supervisors worked closely with her team to design and develop several t-shirts and hoodies celebrating Autism Awareness. OPC staff purchase the shirts, with the proceeds going to POAC Autism Services. “I am so passionate about Autism Awareness and Acceptance, that I can’t wait until every April when we at OPC call attention to issues facing youth with autism, their parents and caregivers, and their families. I’m excited that we also get to raise funds for other community partners doing this work,” stated Santiago. OPC staff wear their t-shirts and hoodies every Tuesday in April for POSITIVI-TEE Tuesdays. OPC will be participating in the Ocean County Library Autism Resources Fair taking place on April 15 from 10:00am – 3:00pm at the Toms River Branch (101 Washington St, Toms River). This event is open to the public. Members of the OPC team will be providing resources and information while making connections with other partners in the field. “We are so grateful to the Toms River Library for holding this event to celebrate April as Autism month and to not only increase awareness, but to provide needed resources and help”, stated Mary Jo Buchanan, LCSW, MPA, Executive Director of OPC. “Events held during Autism Awareness month are critical to getting the word out to parents, caregivers and families with autistic youth or young adults,” stated Buchanan. “Often parents feel overwhelmed and do not know where to turn when they receive the diagnosis for their child. These types of events provide information, resources and connection not only with professionals, but with other parents and families experiencing similar challenges,” According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the national rate for children identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder is 1 in 36 children. This statistic is based on their evaluation of health and educational records of 8-year-old children in 2020 in 11 states, including New Jersey. New Jersey now has the third highest rate of autism in the nation: 1 in 34 children, or 2.9% of 8-year-old children. Over 25% of the youth that OPC provides care coordination for are on the autism spectrum. “Because of the prevalence of youth that OPC services on the autism spectrum, the agency is committed to not only providing care coordination, but also serving as a resource for parents, caregivers and families,” Buchanan noted. The agency has several care manager teams specializing in working with these youth and families, a regular roundtable is provided for consultation and training for the OPC care managers, and OPC staff participate in state roundtables to discuss specific youth needs and potential resources. In addition to organizations like POAC and the Toms River Library, OPC actively participates with a variety of community agencies serving youth with autism. OPC staff participate in the I/DD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) “Each individual, family member, caregiver and friend experience autism differently. Today and every day, the OPC team works to celebrate the achievements of neurodiverse people and provide connections, education and resources to the community,” stated Buchanan. For additional information about autism, please consider the following resources: POAC Autism Services AUTISM NEW JERSEY NJ EARLY INTERVENTION SYSTEM AUTISM FAMILY SERVICES OF NEW JERSEY NJ DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION’S OFFICE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS MOM2MOM STATEWIDE PARENT ADVOCACY NETWORK About Ocean Partnership for Children Inc. Founded in 2005, Ocean Partnership for Children (OPC) is Ocean County’s Care Management Organization (CMO). Its mission is to enhance the well-being of youth and their families through natural and community supports. OPC provides care coordination services for Ocean County youth up the age of 21 years who have mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental challenges. OPC strives to keep children and adolescents at home, in school, and in the community by connecting them to resources that meet their unique needs and help them achieve their goals. Ocean Partnership for Children is a non-profit organization available at no cost to all youth and families in Ocean County who meet the eligibility criteria of the New Jersey Children’s System of care. To learn more, visit https://www.oceanpartnership.org or oceanresourcenet.org.
Ocean Partnership for Children Celebrates Acceptance, Empowerment and Inclusion
Founded in 2005, OPC is Ocean County’s Care Management Organization (CMO). Its mission is to enhance the well-being of youth and their families through natural and community supports. OPC provides care coordination services for Ocean County youth up the age of 21 years who have mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental challenges. OPC strives to keep children and adolescents at home, in school, and in the community by connecting them to resources that meet their unique needs and help them achieve their goals.In partnership with the Indigenous Screen Office. Claudia Skunk and Neegan Siou� Trudel selected to take part in new mentorship program for interactive/immersive producers at the NFB.
Bridging the gaps through partnership and prevention
Walters is a diversified residential and commercial developer committed to the highest construction standards and environmentally responsible building practices. The privately held company builds income-restricted and market-rate housing, premium custom homes, retail centers and office buildings. Active throughout New Jersey, Walters is powered by a talented team of development, property management, construction, real estate brokerage and architectural professionals with the skills and expertise required to handle the most complex suburban developments from concept to completion. More information is available online at: waltersgroupapartments.com.
Family Promise of the Jersey Shore strives to help families experiencing homelessness and economic uncertainty to achieve sustainable independence through prevention programs, advocacy and community support services. To learn more, visit https://www.familypromisejerseyshore.org or call 609-994-3317.Ocean Partnership for Children collaborates with Community Organizations for Autism Awareness
poac.net/about-
Information, education, and policy initiatives related to ASD
800-4-AUTISM
www.autismnj.org
Services for children under the age of 3 years with developmental delays or disabilities
www.nj.gov/health/
Support services for families living with ASD
877-237-4477
www.autismfamilyservicesnj.org
Special education services for school-aged children with disabilities
www.nj.gov/education/
24/7 peer-support for parents of children with special needs
877-914-6662
www.mom2mom.us.com
Support for parents, including parents of children with special needs
800-654-7726
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