
A MEng civil engineering student from the University of Dundee has been named the regional winner at this year’s Women in Property Northern Scotland Student Awards.
Sarah Ross was honoured at a ceremony in Aberdeen, which brought together employers from across the property and construction sectors.
Judges praised Sarah for her ‘well-informed responses, excellent presentation, energy and personality, as well as her leadership qualities’, highlighting the promise she has shown in her studies and early professional development.
Catherine Dryburgh, chair of Women in Property Northern Scotland and a strategic land manager at Barratt Redrow plc, congratulated Sarah on her achievement and highlighted the importance of recognising emerging talent and the need for continued collaboration between universities and industry leaders to address skills gaps and improve gender diversity.
Judges also awarded Highly Commended to Katie Bannister, who is studying MA (Hons) urban planning, also at the University of Dundee.
Now in its 19th year, the Women in Property Student Awards – backed nationally by sponsors Amazon and Savills, and regionally by Stronachs and AtkinsRéalis – are designed to spotlight outstanding students and raise awareness of the career paths available in the built environment.
Michelle Dargie, marketing manager at Stronachs LLP, said, “Investing in the next generation is essential to the future of the industry. It was a real highlight to present the awards and celebrate the drive, capability, and confidence of this year’s finalists. The Awards event was a powerful reminder of the energy, enthusiasm and ambition coming through, and of the importance of continuing to champion diverse pathways into the sector. Congratulations to this year’s winner and to all the finalists!”
Tara Stott, associate director at AtkinsRéalis, added, “It’s a privilege to support the Women in Property Student Awards, which celebrate the creativity, ambition, and potential of the next generation of professionals. Events like these are essential to inspire future leaders and building a more inclusive and dynamic industry. Congratulations to Sarah and the finalists – your achievements are truly inspiring.”
As regional winner, Sarah will now represent Northern Scotland at the national final in London on 18th September, where she will compete against 15 other regional winners.