As part of CECA Scotland’s Inside the Job campaign, an initiative that shines a light on real people working in civil engineering contracting, we spoke with Juliet Mallace, who leads the CECA Scotland Academy. With a background in architecture and extensive experience in further education, Juliet has helped shape a training model that connects colleges with contractors to prepare learners for careers in the civil engineering sector. In this Q&A, she shares her journey, what makes the industry exciting today, and how collaboration is helping to build a skilled and future-ready workforce across Scotland.
Q: Can you tell me a bit about your current role in the civil engineering sector, and your journey to get there?
Juliet Mallace: I currently lead the CECA Scotland Academy, an industry-led training initiative designed to create a direct pathway into employment in the civil engineering sector.
My professional journey began in 1992 when I graduated in architecture. I worked in practice, ran my own business from home while raising my family, and then transitioned into further education. I moved from teaching night classes in CAD to becoming Head of School for Construction at Edinburgh College, where I managed 84 staff across six campuses. One of my proudest achievements during that time was leading the turnaround of an underperforming department and transforming it into one of the college’s strongest performers.
Later, I joined the Energy Skills Partnership (ESP), where I worked to align college training with industry needs. That’s where the idea for the CECA Scotland Academy was born. I developed the model while at ESP, and when I left, CECA offered me the opportunity to lead it. It’s been a perfect fit, flexible enough to support my family responsibilities, and deeply rewarding in terms of impact.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you?
There’s no such thing as a typical day, and that’s one of the things I love most about this role. My work spans everything from strategic planning to hands-on coordination. I might be in meetings with colleges and contractors, developing new delivery centres like the one launching at Perth Prison, or working on standardising teaching materials across all partner colleges.
I also track student outcomes. So far, we’ve helped 62 young people into civil engineering roles, with more expected soon. I liaise with industry to secure support, such as equipment donations or site visits, and I’m constantly refining how we deliver training. Whether it’s writing reports for the Scottish Funding Council or chasing CSCS cards for students about to start work, every day is different, and every task contributes to the bigger picture.
Q: What do you think makes Scotland’s civil engineering sector an exciting industry to work in right now?
Civil engineering is at the heart of Scotland’s transition to net zero. While people might not immediately associate roadworks or drainage with green skills, these are the foundations of renewable infrastructure – wind farms, battery storage facilities, and sustainable transport networks all rely on civil engineering.
There’s also a strong sense of innovation and collaboration in the sector. Contractors are working closely with colleges, investing in training, and supporting initiatives like the CECA Academy. The sector is evolving rapidly, and it’s exciting to be part of something that’s not only building infrastructure but also shaping a more sustainable future.
Q: How do you see the sector evolving in the next 5–10 years, especially in terms of skills and education?
We’re going to see a continued shift toward digitisation and sustainability. Equipment on construction sites is becoming more advanced, with digital interfaces and smart technologies. Colleges need to stay aligned with the latest industry practices, and partnerships play a key role in making that possible. For example, companies have supported training by donating equipment that helps ensure students gain experience with the tools and technologies used on modern sites.
Education will also need to become more responsive. Early engagement between students and employers is proving incredibly effective. When contractors meet students during training, both sides benefit as students gain confidence and clarity, and employers can identify the right candidates. I hope this model becomes the norm, where education and industry work hand-in-hand to shape the future workforce.
Q: Can you share an example of a successful partnership or programme you’ve helped develop that had a real impact?
The CECA Scotland Academy is the standout example. Since its launch, we’ve achieved a 68% positive destination rate – well above the national average of 58% for similar courses. Over half of our graduates are now working in civil engineering, and others have gone into related construction roles or other positive destinations.
We’ve worked with a wide range of partners, including the Department for Work and Pensions, to support unemployed individuals into work. We’ve also engaged with the Scottish Prison Service to pilot training at Perth Prison, which has generated huge interest. The Academy has been recognised by the Scottish Government as a model for other sectors to follow. The real value isn’t just in the statistics, it’s in seeing people gain skills, find employment, and take meaningful steps forward in their lives.
Q: What role do apprenticeships play in shaping the future workforce, and how can we make them more appealing to young people?
Apprenticeships are essential. They offer a structured, hands-on way to learn while earning, which is ideal for many young people who don’t want to follow the traditional university route. I’ve seen the benefits firsthand, both as an educator and as a parent as my daughter is currently completing an apprenticeship.
However, apprenticeships still don’t get the visibility they deserve. Schools often push university as the default path, and many parents aren’t aware of the opportunities apprenticeships offer. We need to change that narrative and highlight the breadth of careers available.
Q: What’s one myth about working in civil engineering that you would love to bust?
That it’s just about digging holes! Civil engineering is incredibly diverse and creative. It includes everything from project management and environmental planning to design, innovation, and digital technology. There’s a role for everyone, regardless of your background or skill set.
One of our contractors put it perfectly: “You don’t need to be the best at something. Just be willing and enthusiastic, and we’ll find a role for you.” That’s the reality of the sector – it’s inclusive, dynamic, and full of opportunity. We need to do more to showcase that, especially to young people who might not see themselves in a hard hat and high-vis jacket.
Q: To end, what achievement are you most proud of in your career so far?
It has to be the CECA Scotland Academy. From developing the model to seeing it grow into a national programme with multiple delivery centres, it’s been an incredible journey. I’ve seen students who’ve never received a certificate in their life walk across the stage at graduation, proud and confident.
That’s what education should be about – creating real opportunities and helping people move forward. I’m proud to be part of the CECA Scotland Academy and the incredible team behind it. While I’ve been involved in many projects over the years, nothing has matched the sense of purpose and fulfilment that comes from seeing the impact this work has on people’s lives.
