Jack is building an award winning future

Jack Walker, from Plymouth, has been named the south west’s Most Promising Trainee Civil Engineer in a prestigious regional awards programme run by the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA).

Jack joined Dawnus Construction in Exeter in 2013 as an industrial placement student, but kept in touch with his colleagues after returning to university. He graduated from Plymouth University with a 1st class honours degree and re-joined Dawnus in May 2015. Since that time, he has been working on the 12 Dock project in Devonport, where he is now the sole engineer supervising the construction of a new 17m high, 41m wide and 6m thick reinforced concrete dividing wall.

It was this hard work, commitment and sheer talent that earned Jack a CECA South West Training Award, presented to trainee civil engineers, apprentices and lifetime achievers in recognition of exceptional performance and dedication.

Jack said: “Winning this award is testament to the support I’ve received from Dawnus. I would certainly encourage other young people to consider a career in civil engineering – it’s challenging but extremely rewarding.”

Jon Benton, Divisional Director at Dawnus, commented: “Jack is without doubt one of our most promising people. His enthusiasm for the industry and openness has encouraged a long line of undergraduates wanting to know more about Dawnus and civil engineering in general.  He is certainly a great asset to Dawnus.”

Alan Taylor, Executive Director at CECA South West, congratulated Jack on his achievement and Dawnus for investing in young people and providing such positive early career support.

He said: “Jack is a very impressive young man and exemplifies the talent that the south west needs to nurture if we are to optimise the significant investment in infrastructure that is earmarked for the region.

“As he has shown, civil engineering offers a very exciting and rewarding career path for young men and women – with lots of different entry options – and I hope many more will explore the opportunities available, with the support of their parents and careers advisers.”

Jack received a certificate and cheque for £500 at the Awards Lunch at The Imperial Hotel, Torquay.