Nearly 75% of young Scots view construction careers positively: CIOB

Over 75% of parents in Scotland would support their child working in construction, with over a third (39%) preferring the “earn while you learn” approach

A recent CIOB survey shows that nearly 74% of 16-24-year-olds in Scotland see construction careers favourably, with over 36% open to working in the sector.  

However, almost half (43%) of respondents said construction was not included in the careers advice they received during school - a missed opportunity to engage students at a critical decision-making stage. 

Jocelyne Fleming, senior policy and public affairs officer for CIOB in Scotland, said: “For Scotland’s construction sector, the simple fact is that unless more young people are guided into roles such as architects, surveyors, site managers, skilled tradespeople, and technicians, the country’s infrastructure and climate goals could be at risk.

A parallel CIOB survey of parents of 16–24-year-olds in Scotland revealed that 77% would support their child working in construction, with over a third (39%) preferring the “earn while you learn” approach of apprenticeships over university—reflecting concerns about student debt and uncertain graduate job prospects. 

The construction skills gap remains a critical challenge. Recent analysis from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) shows the Scottish construction sector will need almost 3,600 new workers annually between now and 2029 to meet expected demand.