Known as “Breaking Ground”, the programme will employ an exploratory, evidence-driven approach, attaining insight from people both inside and outside the industry to gain a stronger understanding of where the prospect of change can be found.

The programme will start with a detailed examination of women’s involvement in the plant sector, looking into perceptions of the industry, pathways into plant careers, recruitment, workplace experiences, retention as well as progression.

This initial phase will be looking for perspectives from women currently working within the industry as well as women outside the sector, men working in the industry, employers, young people as well as organisations involved in education and career development.

Through the use of academic research principles, the approach has been developed, with a focus on acknowledging people’s experiences and perceptions before concluding what obstacles or opportunities are there. 

The programme is being spearheaded by Gail McEwen, vice president of SPOA, with the initial Women in Plant research developed alongside Carly Finley and SPOA’s Women in Plant group.

The initiative was officially launched at SPOA’s Aberdeen Area Meeting last month, which saw more than 140 representatives from the Scottish plant industry.

McEwen said: “We know there are workforce and skills challenges within our industry, and we know that women remain significantly underrepresented, but simply producing yet another report concluding that we need more women in the industry doesn’t tell us what we should actually do about it. 

“We need to understand why.

“If the evidence tells us that women outside the sector just aren’t aware of the range of careers available within plant, that points us towards careers education, schools engagement and organisations such as DYW, where we can give young people practical experience of the industry.”

McEwen added: “If women already working within plant tell us there are particular issues around retention or progression, that requires a completely different response.

“And if employers tell us they are actively looking to recruit more women but simply aren’t receiving applications, then we need to look at recruitment pathways, careers information, work experience and how we better connect potential entrants with SPOA member companies.

“The findings will help us identify wider questions around how our industry attracts, develops and retains people and where further research is needed.”

The association is looking for participation from as varied a range of people as can be. 

As well as individuals already working within plant and the wider construction industry, the SPOA wants to hear from those who work outside the sector. It encourages participation from the wider business community, schools, colleges and organisations working with young people.

The initial Breaking Ground survey is open until the end of 2026 and can be viewed here.