The number of female employees working for the specialist affordable home builders is now 30% - more than double the UK industry standard of 12.6%.

Managing director Janice Russell said: “I’m delighted we have achieved such a significant milestone and, as we celebrate Women in Construction Week, I hope our success can inspire even more women to consider a career in the industry.

“We have doubled the number of female employees in five years by investing in training and support, developing new talent and providing opportunities for a rewarding career across so many parts of our business.

Mrs Russell was recently recognised by her peers for Outstanding Leadership in Home Building in the prestigious Homes For Scotland Awards. In addition, she won Business of the Year at the Scottish Business Women’s Award 2023 and was shortlisted for the UK Inspiring Women in Property Awards.

She added: “As one of few women leading a construction firm, the industry has given me a platform to grow, both as an individual and as a professional, and hopefully I can be a role model for other women and show them that there is no limit to what they can achieve.”

Trainee quantity surveyor Jocelyn Baird, who has been with the Dalry-based firm for six months, said: “I applied for a job directly after undertaking a period of work experience at McTaggart and have loved every minute. It’s great to feel part of a team and to have so much support as I combine a 4-year day release course at Caledonian University with working full time.”

Receptionist & administrator Janet Boyd has been with the company eight years. She said: “As a working mum I have been supported and encouraged throughout and that has encouraged me to take on new responsibilities. There are so many office-based jobs available in construction and I love the variety and that no two days are the same.”

Mrs Russell added: “We have introduced a senior management course for women and have a number of great success stories, from apprenticeships to long serving employees. The key is ensuring everyone in the team is valued and supported and we do that by listening and connecting with our staff to ensure we put the building blocks in place to allow them to achieve their potential.”

McTaggart is the only homebuilder in Scotland to have been awarded Gold level membership of The 5% Club in recognition of its investment in developing new talent and providing training opportunities for young people.

The 5% Club is a UK movement of employer-members committed to developing their workforce and addressing skills shortages. Gold membership is awarded to companies that have more than 5% of their workforce in “earn and learn” roles: Apprenticeships, Graduate schemes, and Sponsored student programmes. 

Mrs Russell added: “Women in Construction Week is a reminder of what is possible in this industry when women are supported, inspired and encouraged. 

“Building quality homes can positively change lives and communities and part of that can be achieved by providing career paths for women, whether through apprenticeships, skills training or on-site learning.”

Mrs Russell is speaking at a STEM event to celebrate International Women’s Day at the Future Skills Hub at Kilwinning Campus on Friday (March 7).