Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators in Construction

Tackling Scotland’s Construction Skills Shortage

Scotland’s construction sector needs more people - and it also needs to change perceptions. Construction isn’t “bricks and mortar” alone anymore. It’s increasingly shaped by sustainability, digital workflows, and modern methods of delivery.

CITB’s Construction Skills Network estimates an extra 26,100 workers will be needed in Scotland between 2024 and 2028. Closing that gap means making the industry more attractive to young people who are interested in technology, design, and problem-solving.

Empowering Young Minds Through Experience

To help challenge outdated perceptions, we welcomed two young people, Max and Ross, into our Glasgow office for a construction-themed work experience day.

Instead of shadowing traditional roles, we set a practical challenge: identify real construction problems and propose how technology (including AI) could help solve them.

Their idea was impressively grounded: DAN (Digital Architect Network) — an AI-powered assistant designed to learn over time and give real-time answers for everyday construction queries, such as:

• locating the right document or drawing quickly
• answering site and project questions consistently
• helping teams respond to client enquiries faster
• reducing time lost to chasing information and handovers

Crucially, ideas like this only work when the fundamentals are right: good data, clear ownership, and the right governance so information stays accurate, secure, and trusted.

“Before this experience, I didn’t realise how much technology is shaping construction. It’s not just about bricks and mortar—it’s about smart systems, AI, and innovation. Coming up with the idea for DAN made me see how I could be part of something that changes how buildings are made and managed.” - Ross

“I always thought construction was just about being on-site, but this day showed me there’s so much more to it. Researching how AI can help solve real problems in the industry was exciting—and it made me think about how I could use my skills in tech to make a real impact.” - Max

Our commitment to innovation in construction

We’re committed to practical innovation that improves how construction organisations operate — from digital workflows and automation through to stronger information management and adoption.

That’s also why we collaborate with BE-ST (Built Environment – Smarter Transformation), whose mission is to accelerate the built environment’s transition to zero carbon through innovation, skills, and collaboration across industry, education, and the public sector.

BE-ST’s focus on skills and real-world innovation aligns closely with what we’re trying to do locally: help the next generation see construction as a modern career with meaningful impact.

Who is BE-ST?

BE-ST is Scotland’s national innovation centre for the built environment. Their mission is to accelerate the sector’s transition to zero carbon by fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and government.

A key part of their work is empowering the next generation. Through initiatives like the Low Carbon Learning: Next Gen programme, BE-ST is helping young people across Scotland gain hands-on experience with sustainable construction practices and digital innovation.

“That’s what makes it a first choice—it’s a really cool thing to work in. You’re using a robot to build houses in a factory, and that’s exciting. It’s not a second choice anymore.” - Hannah Lloyd, Business Development Manager from BE-ST

Looking Ahead

Max and Ross showed what’s possible when young people get exposure to the real direction of the industry. If we want to close the skills gap, we need more of this: experience, challenge-led learning, and visible pathways into modern construction careers.

A few facts that reinforce the opportunity:

• Scotland needs 26,100 additional construction workers (2024–2028).
• Women make up 15% of the UK construction workforce, but only ~2% work on-site — a major opportunity to widen participation.
• The UK government has announced 120,000 new training opportunities, including construction.

With the rise of technology, robotics, and AI, construction is becoming more accessible and appealing to a broader range of young people, including those interested in STEM and design.

“Young people want to do work that matters—and construction offers that. Whether it’s building sustainable homes or designing spaces that improve lives, this industry gives them the chance to shape the future in a meaningful way.” - Lynsey Brydson, Director of Impact Programmes

Call to action

If you’re a construction business in Glasgow or Central Scotland, we’d encourage you to get involved:

• offer structured work experience with real challenges (not just observation)
• highlight digital, sustainability, and innovation pathways
• invest in inclusive recruitment and early-career development

Building the future workforce isn’t a “nice to have” - it’s a practical step towards a stronger, smarter, more sustainable built environment.