Award winning placement for Plymouth University student

Plymouth University student Thomas Yates has received a prestigious award from the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) for his outstanding performance during a placement year as part of his BEng Civil Engineering course.

Thomas, from Winchester, was named the top Plymouth University student at the CECA South West Training Awards for his achievements while working with Avon Construction, based in Ringwood, Hampshire – and he clearly has a bright future ahead of him. During his placement year, he acted as a site engineer on a housing project and a substation contract, supervised operatives and took responsibility for client liaison. On his penultimate project, at Poole Park Bridge, Thomas was given the responsibility of site manager, running a team involved in demolishing the existing bridge and replacing it with a fibre reinforced polymer structure.

Paul Santer, CECA South West Regional Director, said that the success of Thomas and the other winners highlighted the current opportunities available for young people in civil engineering.

He said: “Thomas has made a fantastic start to his chosen career and is an inspiration to others of his generation looking for a working life that is well paid, different every day and which rewards talent. We need more bright, enthusiastic young people like Thomas to join our construction industry, to bring new skills and fresh ideas and to play a part in building the UK infrastructure fundamental to future prosperity.”

The CECA South West Training Awards are presented annually to trainee civil engineers and apprentices in recognition of exceptional performance. Thomas received a trophy and cheque for £500 from Dave Ellis, Chairman of CECA South West, at the awards ceremony in Torquay.

Photo caption: Thomas Yates receiving his award from Dave Ellis, Chairman of CECA (SW).