Ewan Galloway, RICS matrics Scotland chairman explains why joining matrics is so worthwhile.

RICS matrics Scotland provides networking opportunities at local, regional and national level, helping to organise business and social events, services and publications for the new breed within RICS. 

Considered the 'Lifeblood of the Institution', matrics caters for students, probationers and full members up to ten years post-qualified experience so that we can help shape the future of the RICS.

Within Scotland, we have five regional committees who bring a host of events to the membership and we encourage you to get involved! 

Each region holds regular meetings and there is a dedicated Scottish Committee comprising of members from all over Scotland.

As part of our training or continued professional development (CPD), we all have to satisfy the criteria of CPD and this is a large portion of the work that we do in matrics. We are here to help!

Throughout 2008, Glasgow and the south west hosted such events as 'Timber Defects and Repairs' in association with Peter Cox, speed networking and, appropriately, a 'Beat the Credit Crunch' night at the end of November.

Edinburgh and the south east have hosted events regarding BREEAM, Energy Performance Certificates and Codes of Conduct. 

All of our regions hold APC/ATC events with Alan Melvin, the Regional Training Advisor for Scotland and these always prove to be very popular. 

Site visits are a regular occurrence and these are a great opportunity to get a hands-on experience of a range of developments. 

We also regularly hold careers events in schools and universities to encourage a career in surveying.

It really is an open forum, so if there is a subject that you would like to hear about, get in touch with your local matrics committee and find out how they can help! 

We would love to welcome you along to a matrics event in the future... see what you can get out of it, you'll be surprised!

To find out more visit RICS matrics Scotland.