Opening of the competition. In the presidium (from left to right) are Andrey Nikulin, Ilya Gladushevsky, and Dmitry Ulrikh
The St Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering held a test as part of the "Digital GTO" project. Participants —senior pupils and college students—were required to answer 100 questions on construction, design, and 3D modeling in one hour. A score of 75 or higher earns five additional points toward their Unified State Exam score. In the spring the university will hold a ceremony to award the winners with personalized certificates.
The "Digital GTO" is an interactive test within the "I Am the Builder of the Future!" career guidance project of the Public Council under the Ministry of Construction of Russia. It is implemented with the support of industry associations and construction companies. The "Digital GTO" is designed to help prospective students determine their level of digital competencies in the construction industry. The project's goal is to expand admission opportunities, promote the training of in-demand professionals, and address the engineering personnel shortage.
Andrey Nikulin, Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering, welcomed the participants and noted that digitalization in the construction industry is developing rapidly, and modern engineers need to combine fundamental professional training with digital skills: "Your desire to master digital technologies is absolutely reasonable and promising. Today, construction companies are increasingly seeking specialists capable of working with digital products. Employers say it's easier to teach IT to a civil engineer than vice versa. Therefore, competitions like these open up additional opportunities for you."
Dmitry Ulrikh, Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Municipal Services, emphasized the importance of participating in such projects for building applicants' portfolios: "Getting five points toward your Unified State Exam score is a significant advantage. Sometimes, even half a point can decide the outcome of an admissions campaign. Accumulate your achievements—this is your foundation for your future profession. I really hope to see you among our university's students!"
Ilya Gladushevsky, the Admissions Committee's Executive Secretary, wished all participants confidence and a desire to learn new things: "Every step you take today brings you, future applicants, closer to a successful professional career. The university has opened its doors for you, and now the most important thing is to boldly follow your digital path."
