Home   News   Article

‘Pinnacle moment’ in Inverness construction graduate’s career as she scoops top industry award





A talented construction graduate working on the site of the new HMP Highland has been crowned ‘graduate of the year’ at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Ianna Roche is Graduate Construction Manager at HMP Highland.
Ianna Roche is Graduate Construction Manager at HMP Highland.

Ianna Roche was awarded the title at the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) awards, held in Glasgow in October.

The Scottish CIOB awards seek to recognise outstanding examples of work carried out by construction professionals in Scotland – meaning she was up against some tough competition.

Ianna, who lives in the Highland area, spent years in higher education, securing a masters degree in construction project management at Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University.

Ianna Roche at the awards ceremony in Glasgow.
Ianna Roche at the awards ceremony in Glasgow.

She then joined Balfour Beatty, who are building the new prison, in May 2023, as a Graduate Construction Manager.

She quickly found her feet in the project, tackling various aspects of project management, from planning and coordination, to quality control and risk management for HMP Highland.

On top of her normal work, Ianna was recognised for going above and beyond to champion for other women in construction, supporting CIOB’s “PPE that fits” and “Women in Construction” campaigns.

She attributes her early success to her “passion for the industry.”

Ianna said: “Being honoured with this Graduate of the Year award has been a pinnacle moment of my early career.

“When I joined the HMP Highland project I was immersed in a vibrant team environment, and have had many opportunities to develop and enhance my skills.

“I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, and I am determined to continue delivering exceptional results, and helping to build a sustainable future in the construction industry.”

Lorraine Roughan, SPS Project Executive for HMP Highland, said: “We’re delighted that Ianna has been recognised for her significant contribution to the HMP Highland project, and for her efforts in championing the construction industry.

“Her appointment, and rightly recognised success, is a key example of the lasting community legacy that the new prison seeks to establish for the Highland area.”



Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More