While there is no doubt that UK engineering needs more recruits, the success of our Young Engineers bears witness to there being plenty of talent among our recent candidates.
Once again, the Pump Centre celebrated engineering excellence at the Young Engineer Awards during our special members' evening on Wednesday, 10th May.
This year, the awards were presented in three categories, with young engineers being nominated by their companies. All shortlisted candidates were also eligible for the Derek Jackson Award, which recognizes a young engineer whose outstanding achievements warranted special recognition.
The 2023 winner of the Apprentice Category was Sidney Swingler, an apprentice mechanical engineer from M&N, a part of Hydro International. In addition to gaining hands-on experience in every part of the business process, Sidney used his initiative to create a bespoke spreader beam that significantly improved lifting tasks, making them safer and more efficient.
Taylor Stevens, a commissioning engineer at Bridges Electrical, was presented with the 2023 Technician Young Engineer Award. Alongside his responsibilities of designing and manufacturing control panels, Taylor also trains and mentors apprentices, creating tailored programs for each individual.
The 2023 winner of the Professional Category was Benjamin Reid of United Utilities, who serves as the lead mechanical engineer on multiple capital projects and provides technical engineering support to the business. Benjamin is the custodian company representative for several technical standards and has completed a project management role that achieved a saving of over £5 million in capital investment.
The 2023 Derek Jackson Special Achievement Award was presented to Joe Bagg, an apprentice mechanical technician at Wessex Water. Joe works in the mechanical optimization team, conducting tests on existing sewerage pumping stations and water recycling systems. He is also responsible for submitting prepared improvements across the site works.
During the awards ceremony, the winners were presented with an engraved plaque, along with a £250 gift voucher and a one-day Pump Centre training course worth up to £450.
We would like to express our gratitude to Rockwell Automation once again for sponsoring the awards. Their continued support is greatly appreciated.
The Pump Centre extends its thanks and congratulations to all of the Young Engineers nominated for this year's awards, and we wish them the very best in their future careers.
Do you know someone worthy of a Young Engineer Award?
Nominations are now open until 23rd November for next year's awards. Don't miss out on your opportunity to recognize and support young talent within your company!
Visit www.waterequipmentshow.com for more information on completing the nomination form.