Award-winning placement for Plymouth University student

Plymouth University student Peter Boden has received a prestigious award from the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) for his outstanding performance during a placement year as part of his MEng course in civil and coastal engineering.

Peter, who is originally from Stroud, impressed his host company, Dyer & Butler in Swindon, with his work on numerous projects, which ranged from simple masonry repairs to full bridge demolitions and reconstructions. One particular project involved removing and replacing a bridge which carried the main line from London Paddington to Bristol – all over a single weekend period.

As a result of his hard work, Peter was named best Plymouth University industrial placement student at the CECA South West Training Awards, which are presented to trainee civil engineers, apprentices and lifetime achievers in recognition of exceptional performance and dedication.

Peter was delighted to win the award and said: “My experience with Dyer & Butler was both enjoyable and challenging – I was particularly proud of my involvement in the bridge removal and replacement project because we were working to very tight deadlines due to road and rail line closures."

Alan Taylor, Executive Director at CECA South West, said: “Peter 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 Peter has proven, 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.”

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