New research by RICS has revealed that young people are seeing the benefits of a career in construction, with a 30% increase in the number of young 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.
Over the last six years, the number of young people, aged 18-30, qualifying as Chartered or Associate Surveyors has steadily increased each year. In 2013, 1,125 18-30 year-olds qualified and in 2018, just under 1,520 young people of the same age group entered the surveying profession.
This increase is much-needed in an industry that lacks a diverse workforce, and where the average age of a surveyor is 55.
To help raise awareness of surveying as a career for diverse young talent from all backgrounds and celebrate the achievements of the UK’s most inspiring surveyors, RICS established its flagship YSOYA in 2014 for those aged 35 or under.
The number of female surveyors entering the YSOYA has grown since their launch, with 43 females entering last year – of which 29 were shortlisted – compared with 30 female entries in 2014 of which 14 made the shortlist.
Head of the YSOYA 2018 judging panel, Anna Keys of Calfordseaden LLP said: “It’s fantastic to see that more young people are actively joining the industry, and that more talented young women in surveying are becoming visible role models, recognised for their achievements and the vital role they play in maintain and improvising our built environment.
“The YSOYA are part of RICS’ comprehensive programme of future talent and outreach activities with schools, colleges and universities, which we hope will continue to engage, inspire and help increase the number of young people joining the surveying profession each year.
“Not only will this help alleviate the industry’s skills shortages, but also create a more diverse and inclusive workforce where men and women of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy equal opportunities.”
Entries to the RICS Matrics Young Surveyor of the Year 2019 are now open. Young surveyors and their employers can enter or nominate one of the ten categories, including Asset and Facilities Management, Building Surveying and Project Management. The closing date to enter is 12 July and the winners will be announced at a black-tie ceremony held in London in November.
