Countrywide Surveying Services (CSS) has marked International Women’s Day by welcoming nine new trainees to its structured AssocRICS training programme.

With women making up six of the cohort, CSS believes this signifies its ongoing commitment to nurturing gender diversity in the surveying sector.

Each trainee is paired with an experienced mentor and will follow a learning programme that blends classroom-based education with hands-on training as they work towards their AssocRICS qualification later this year. The structured pathway supports long-term career development in residential surveying through mentorship, specialist training, and industry-leading knowledge.

Applications are now open for those interested in joining the next CSS intake.

Rebecca Freeman (pictured), director of field operations at Countrywide Surveying Services, said: “We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where talent can thrive, regardless of gender.

“While the surveying industry has traditionally seen lower female representation, we are proud to see more women choosing this career path through our trainee programme. Our latest cohort reflects this positive shift, with women making up two-thirds of our new trainees, well above the industry average.

“Our training programme is more than just a stepping stone; it’s a platform for long-term career progression. Many past trainees have moved into senior roles, from regional management to property risk and innovation.

“We are shaping the future of surveying to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, and the growing representation of women within our programme is a testament to our supportive culture, expert mentoring, and flexible working options.”