Construction student wins essay contest

A Bachelor of Construction student has earned industry recognition for an award-winning essay on how AI can improve cost forecasting accuracy and efficiency.

Tianyi Yin came first in the Quantity Surveyors Emerging Professionals essay competition, which is part of the New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors Conference.

She’s won a ticket to the two-day conference in Invercargill this month as well as tickets to the gala dinner and social event, flights, and three nights’ accommodation. She’ll also have the opportunity to present at the Quantity Surveying Emerging Professionals mini-conference breakout session.

Tianyi says her essay looks at how technology is changing the quantity surveying profession. Specifically, it explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) can work together to improve the accuracy and efficiency of cost forecasting.

“Traditional methods have their place, but they’re becoming less effective given the growing complexity of data, price volatility, and sustainability demands in today’s construction industry. The combination of AI and BIM offers a faster, smarter, and more precise way of working with cost data,” she says.

Her presentation at the conference will be based on her essay with a few updates and extensions.

“The key message is that these technologies are creating exciting new opportunities for the next generation of QS professionals,” says Tianyi.

This will be Tianyi’s first time attending an industry conference and she says she’s really excited.

“For me, it’s a great opportunity not just to hear from experts, but to actually experience what the industry environment feels like.”

She’s especially looking forward to hearing real project case studies, learning about the latest tech trends, and listening to how experienced professionals have built their careers.

“I’m also excited to meet people from the industry - even just a few casual conversations would be a big inspiration for me. I’m working toward becoming a QS who can solve real-world problems and communicate well with others, and I think this conference is the perfect chance to take a step in that direction.”

Tianyi came to New Zealand to study right after finishing high school in China. She says she’s always been interested in the building and construction field, especially Quantity Surveying, because it’s logical, practical, and closely connected to real-world projects.

She says the best thing about studying at OPAIC has been the freedom she’s had to learn on her own.

“The teachers don’t micromanage, but whenever I ask questions, they’re really willing to help and respect each student’s own pace. Plus, they introduced me to industry resources like NZIQS, which helped me get a better understanding of the field.”

After graduation, she plans to continue developing her career as a Quantity Surveyor and find a position in a construction-related company.

“I’m aiming to gain hands-on experience while improving my professional skills - learning as I work and growing quickly. In the long run, I hope to become a well-rounded professional who can take full responsibility for projects,” she says.

“I believe that with a clear career direction and a steady growth plan, I can build a strong foundation in the industry and create real value.”