Abbie Mckinnon
Construction company
Give us a brief description of your background
From Glasgow, I went straight into university from high school. I secured my undergrad in BA Hons Social Sciences – Economics with Politics. I decided to work for a year in Time and Attendance in a Facilities Management company before returning to university. I have a keen interest in helping people and the environment and knew that I needed a stronger knowledge base, thus the completion of my Masters degree. I went back to Glasgow Caledonian University to gain an MSc in Climate Justice. This ignited my passion in exploring people and their relationship with the climate crisis. I then joined a construction company and have been in the industry since. As a form of escapism, I spend my spare time eating food, drinking too many cups of tea and diving into movies.
Who/what inspires you?
I’m all for trying to gain an equal position in this world for the gals. Female empowerment across all sectors is a dream of mine, and I will try to incorporate this passion into any task I am involved in. Working in a traditionally male-heavy environment, I enjoy having the opportunity to extend the sector and facilitate opportunities for all, from women to SMEs. Probably taking inspiration from watching my parents and sisters, I value determination and hard work in all aspects of my life and I use this as motivation.
What does the word leadership make you think of?
I believe effective leadership helps create opportunities for individuals. Being a leader means empathy, ambition and approachability are all qualities that need to be strengthened. It is a person respectful of all manner of people and the ability to lead them through new challenges.
How do you feel about taking part in the Future Leaders programme?
I am excited to get deep into the programme and explore the leadership and Net Zero themes that we will cover in each session. It will be interesting to collaborate with other young people and discover their ideas on the Net Zero targets and how future leadership surrounding the climate crisis can look.
What do you think are the keys to a sustainable future?
Dedication from individuals, organisations and Governments is required. Without allowing too much pressure, small continuous steps will ensure that we transition in a just manner without displacing a particular faction in society. Collaboration is key to success, ensuring we listen to the needs of others and passionately create solutions to adapt and mitigate.
