Leeds College of Building and Mott MacDonald apprentice Ruth Watson was recently awarded New Civil Engineer Apprentice of the Year.
This year’s New Civil Engineer Graduate and Apprentice Awards were designed to recognise and reward the most inspiring civil engineering graduates or apprentices.
This year the award had a real focus on technology. The civil engineering profession is becoming increasingly technology-led. The New Civil Engineer were looking for graduates and apprentices who are not just comfortable working in a digital environment but who are, through their day-to-day role or engagement in industry initiatives, seeking to improve the use of technology in their company or in the industry at large. Over 100 entries were submitted, with representation from over 50 companies.
We recently spoke to Ruth about her award win and she said:
“To apply I had to answer 5 questions, including a short essay on how I am embracing technology. From my application I was one of 5 in the UK to be shortlisted. The second stage of judging was doing a presentation on the 1st November in front of 15 judges in London about technology and the industry. On the 30th of November all finalists were invited to the award ceremony where they announced the winner. I couldn’t believe it when the read my name out!
Vicky Patterson, Curriculum Manager at the College said:
“We are super proud of what Ruth has achieved, especially after only 2 years in the industry! She has a fantastic career ahead of her”.
Ruth currently works in the dams and reservoirs team as a project leader. She has trialled a digital tool that helps compare the impact that various methods of construction have on carbon emissions.
The awards were presented at a gala lunch, held in the ICE's Great Hall.
Ruth collecting her award
