By Heather Holbrook, director at Thomas & Adamson, part of Egis Group
Quantity surveying is a vital part of the UK’s £370 billion construction industry, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood professions in the sector. Despite its strategic importance, enrolment in quantity surveying courses has levelled off, and while there are around 45 UK universities offering undergraduate programmes, student numbers are significantly lower than they were in 2020.
Attracting fresh, forward-thinking talent is essential, especially as the industry faces increasing pressures around cost management, sustainability and project delivery. A shift in how the profession is communicated is required to help attract future talent – a rebrand, if you will.
The term ‘quantity surveying’ can mean different things to different people and is a complicated specialism to explain to those outside of the industry. Added to that, its importance is frequently overshadowed by more visible roles in architecture, engineering and project management as it lacks the immediate appeal and public recognition of these disciplines, making it less likely to capture attention.
Yet, its contribution is equally significant and its career prospects just as rewarding. Stronger messaging around the profession’s strategic value, broad skill set, and long-term growth potential is key to raising its profile and inspiring the next generation of professionals. This applies not only to students but also to parents, educators and career advisors. It’s not necessarily about changing the wording but rethinking how we position our profession and explain the importance of what we do to those considering career options and opportunities in the built environment.
Some signs of change are beginning to emerge, as titles such as cost manager, advisor and consultant are becoming increasingly common, suggesting a broader scope of work that resonates with those exploring career options in the built environment. The profession’s growing alignment with globally significant priorities, including carbon costing, sustainability and net zero targets, is also attracting students from related disciplines such as environmental engineering and accounting.
Technology can also play a significant role in reshaping and modernising the profession, especially for new entrants. Digital tools and data-driven approaches are making it more accessible and engaging, particularly for those who may not have considered a traditional construction career. This change is also reflected in how university advisors are reaching new audiences, with institutions such as Glasgow Caledonian University usingdigital resources to showcase the profession’s evolving scope, appealing to a broader pool of potential applicants.
Although pathways into quantity surveying are more accessible than ever, through apprenticeships, degree programmes and flexible learning options, the variety of entry routes remain largely overlooked. This stems from limited mainstream visibility, minimal representation in schools and enduring misconceptions around the profession, with many in the field not communicating the full breadth and importance of their role to external audiences.
To unlock the full potential of the profession, greater collaboration between education authorities, industry bodies, and ambassadors is needed, but professionals working within the construction sector, such as myself, also have a crucial role to play. Those actively practising can help to shift perceptions by engaging with students, offering insights into the profession and contributing to online platforms to showcase the breadth and impact of the role.
While quantity surveying has evolved beyond its niche origins to become a dynamic and strategic profession that plays a central role in shaping the modern built environment, we still need more new entrants coming into the sector. Repositioning this vital discipline to reflect its full value is essential for attracting the next generation of talent and ensuring the long-term strength and sustainability of the industry.
