Napier Supporting Equality And Diversity In The Built Environment

The Scottish Resource Centre for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology (SET), based at Napier University, reaches a landmark this week with the signing of the first CEO Charter for Women in SET in Scotland, and the publication of its Research Report: Getting In, Getting On in Construction.

The CEO Charter for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology will be signed by Graeme Ogilvy on behalf of ConstructionSkills Scotland, in the presence of Annette Williams, Director of UKRC for Women in SET.

By signing up to the Charter, the CEO and senior management of ConstructionSkills make a commitment to:

• Actively support the aim of increasing the participation, at all levels, of women in SET
• Develop and communicate the business case for gender equality within their company, their supply chain and their wider networks
• Promote and showcase their company's approach and examples of best practice at relevant events and forums
• Develop clearly defined strategies and implement practices which encourage women to enter and progress in, or return to, SET careers

Getting In, Getting On in Construction's research published today by Napier University, explores the progression of undergraduates on built environment programmes at five Scottish universities in 2008. ConstructionSkills is committed to implementing the recommendations in this report, which will begin with a new initiative in 2009 that involves equality and diversity training workshops.


Graeme Ogilvie, ConstructionSkills Scotland, said: "The construction industry contributes significantly to the Scottish and UK economy, as well as underpinning the infrastructure that facilitates the successful operation of other skills sectors.

"We need greater insight into why people choose to enter and stay in a career in construction. In order to attract and retain the best recruits we have to embrace applicants from all backgrounds to ensure the sector represents society as a whole."

Mr Ogilvie believes it is of paramount importance that we understand why students chose construction and what their perception is of the varied careers offered by the industry.

Jenny Tizard, Manager of the Scottish resource centre for women in SET, adds: "Women are still in the minority working in the built environment sector.

"It is terrific that ConstructionSkills are signing the CEO Charter and demonstrating their real commitment to equality by sponsoring research and training that will increase the number of women coming to work in construction, and their improve their experience."