Graduate of the Year

Ella Cudmore
AtkinsRéalis

Efficiency and sustainability are vital in the current climate if we are to make a real impact on improving lives through the nation’s infrastructure. For this reason, I have been driven to make positive changes within my projects and personal time. I have created a digital tool to this effect and engaged with decarbonisation in projects and the wider business. I enjoy collaborating with my team, which has led to me becoming responsible for organising social events for us to engage outside of work, promoting a more energised environment in the office.

Jordan Darr
William Hare Group

Jordan Darr continuously combines technical skill with an unrivalled attitude, bringing business-wide benefits to William Hare. Working on Hinkley SSW, Jordan has shown incredible commercial initiative through the re-formatting of our AFP, significantly reducing the payment certificate difference. The trust we have in Jordan’s skill and management has culminated in us giving him responsibility for the commercial management of a complex project out in Rotterdam, and also for the mentorship of younger apprentices. We are excited to see what the future holds for Jordan. He is achieving beyond his years and is a genuine credit to the organisation.

Sam Pym
McGee

Despite being early in his career, Sam Pyn has made significant contributions to the construction industry through his initiative, innovation, and determination. At 7 Millbank, his meticulous planning and communication ensured safety and efficiency in Temporary Works. As Temporary Works Coordinator, Sam led design meetings, ensuring project compliance and safety. His innovative solutions, such as using scaffolding to improve airflow and creating a central database for reusable goods, have saved time, costs, and reduced the carbon footprint. Sam's commitment to learning, community involvement, and mentoring aspiring engineers make him a standout candidate for the Graduate of the Year award.

Emma Rhodes
Vinci

Whilst still very early in my career, I carry a passion for improving the way we do things for the better. I will continue to challenge our traditional approaches to incorporate new and innovative ideas. I believe it can start with something small such as saving small amounts of waste often and creating more time to dedicate to improving something else. These benefits will continue to show as more time is saved, less material is wasted, and projects are delivered with better outcomes.