The UK Government estimates that the construction industry is worth £90 bn to the UK economy, employing 2.9 m people across all sectors, equivalent to 10% of all jobs in the UK.
Despite the industry’s significant contribution to the UK and global economies, the construction industry is still facing a skills shortage, and in particular struggles to attract women to join the profession.
However, it seems that for the surveyors, the situation may be beginning to improve. Recent research from RICS has revealed a 30% increase in the number of 18-30 year-olds qualifying as surveyors. RICS also reported an increase in young professional women entering its ‘Young Surveyor of the Year Awards’, despite less than 14% of UK surveyors being female. Indeed, it’s Young Surveyor of the Year award 2019 was awarded to Laura Collins MRICS. All award nominees are considered on an anonymous basis.
RICS also reports that the number of young people aged 18-30 qualifying as Chartered or Associate surveyors has steadily increased year on year since 2013.
Soben is committed to supporting young people into the construction industry, with the Soben Academy and Always Moving Forward Programmes. Soben’s senior team work closely with Glasgow Caledonian University and Ayrshire College, providing support and advice to those looking to secure a successful career in the industry.
Soben Chairman Paul Moultrie commented; “The latest statistics from RICS are very encouraging, and show that an increasing number of young people are understanding the benefits of a career in surveying and construction. At Soben, we are committed to supporting our staff throughout their careers, and will continue to work with Further and Higher Education institutions to encourage those students undertaking their surveying qualifications.”