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The foundation sector is literally at the foundation of every construction project. Once an object is upright, the foundation disappears from view, and with it the craftsmanship, innovation and people that make it possible. The industry faces some tough, yet inspiring challenges. The supply of work is growing, the demand for qualified professionals is increasing, and retaining and enthusing professionals is becoming increasingly important. To make the profession visible and to give the people behind it a face, the NVAF is starting this year with the initiative Funderingshelden.
The core of Foundation Heroes is to put people and projects from the foundation sector in the spotlight, says Jaap Estié, director of the NVAF. “Foundation heroes are professionals who demonstrate daily how beautiful, complex and relevant our profession is. A lot of good work is being done within the sector and that should and must become more visible. And that is what we as an association are going to work hard for in the coming period, obviously together with our member companies. We also hope to link the initiative to the theme of Foundation Day 2026, which takes place at the end of this year.”
In addition to this new initiative, the NVAF is currently working on finalizing a new version of the Safe Foundation Trade Book and revisions to the Construction Site Certificate. “The latter pays specific attention to ensuring a stable work floor for foundation machines,” Estié adds. “A project group is also being started up to revise the Safe Working from Water Directive, given changed laws and regulations in this area. Furthermore, training remains a fundamental pillar within our association. In cooperation with Training Center Crescendo, the Funderingsvakschool provides an important training platform for the industry.”
Knowledge sharing and networking are also important events on the agenda, according to Estié. “On March 24 and 25, the international Conference on Foundation Decarbonization and Reuse will take place in Amsterdam, followed by project visits on March 26. This conference focuses on sustainability and reuse of existing foundations, with a focus on both designers and implementers. NVAF is supporting this event as a partner, along with DFI Europe (Deep Foundations Institute) and KIVI (Royal Institute of Engineers), among others. This will be followed in November by the biannual Foundations Day, an important national meeting point for the industry.”
In addition, NVAF is present at trade fairs such as the Monumentenbeurs and Renovation Fair in Den Bosch, with a joint foundation square. “In parallel, several technical processes are underway, such as joint testing of pile systems and the development of a guideline for mortar screw piles,” says Estié. “New quality assurance and accreditation schemes are also being anticipated in order to be prepared for developments in the market.”
With the combination of people-oriented policies, knowledge development and visibility, the foundation sector is working purposefully to become strong and future-proof in 2026 and beyond.
