AECOM launches Women in Construction scholarship

AECOM launches its Women in Construction Scholarship with industry partner the University of Salford in the UK.

Designed to help increase the number of women completing construction-related undergraduate degrees, the Women in Construction Scholarship provides one female student from a low-income background studying Construction Project Management with financial, academic, and professional support throughout their three years of study.

Supporting a student’s career in construction

The inaugural scholarship was awarded to Helen Ward, a University of Salford student studying Construction Project Management.

Helen is described by her peers as, “an extremely resilient young woman who has incredible plans for her future career in the construction industry.”

Breaking down barriers for female students

AECOM aligns with the University of Salford’s commitment to breaking down barriers for female students in the built environment and STEM sectors by improving access to learning and creating life-changing opportunities.

“We truly believe in the value of improving access to the construction industry, reaching people from a variety of different backgrounds who will bring a diversity of perspective. We also recognize the importance of collaboration between industry and academia to attract future female talent, so we're really proud to partner with the University of Salford to launch the AECOM Women in Construction Scholarship,” explains Craig Edwards, AECOM Managing Director of Environment and Ground Engineering, UK and Ireland.

“In addition to financial assistance, our team will provide professional support to students under the scholarship each year, working with the university to help equip the next generation of construction professionals with the skills that industry needs.”

Creating further programs to enhance employability

To create additional opportunities for students, the University is working in collaboration with AECOM to create other programs that help to enhance employability such as work experience placements.

Nicky Harris, Lecturer in Construction Management at The University of Salford adds: “Promoting equality and diversity in our teaching and learning is important to the University and is something that I am passionate about being a female working in the Built Environment sector. It is important that we break down barriers and improve access for female students, so we are pleased to offer the scholarship with AECOM, to pave the way for a deserving female to enter the sector with the additional support of an industry partner.”