Peter Barker

Peter is an experienced built environment practitioner and innovator, with over forty years diverse experience in the sector. After studying Classics at Leeds University, Peter studied architectural technology at Northumbria University in the 1980s, before leading teams delivering a wide range of projects in healthcare, education, manufacturing, office and leisure in both the public and private sectors. Following his work pioneering the adoption of digital tools in practice, in 2010 Peter led the foundation of BIM Academy, a unique joint venture between Ryder and Northumbria University and a centre of excellence for digital transformation which has now evolved into Okana. Peter served as managing director for ten years delivering digital consultancy projects for international clients in SE Asia, Australia, the Middle East and UK. After 30 years with Ryder, Peter retired as a partner in 2025 and now brings to bear his experience and insights as a consultant. His focus is on advocating and developing innovative learning programmes, particularly those based on cross disciplinary work based learning. Such programmes are essential for the future of the industry and will nurture the next generation of talent and widen opportunities and inclusion for underrepresented communities. In the field of research, Peter also has a particular interest in digitisation, environmental resilience and regeneration and modern methods of construction.