And so it was an absolute delight to be invited to be part of the panel who met with this year’s shortlisted finalists today. The finalists – 8 in total – once again showed the talent that exists amongst our apprentice members.

Whilst some of the finalists had known from an early age that they wanted to be involved in engineering, many had ‘fallen into’ the profession – particularly transport planning – not knowing it existed. And yet the work of our transport planners particularly those involved in strategic planning is so fundamental to shaping our future. Today was a reminder of the continued need for us to be better at celebrating our work amongst friends and the wider community.

Today was also a timely reminder of the critical role that employers have in supporting these young professionals as they embark on their career. Whilst undoubtedly talented, we should never forget that many are inexperienced in working life: the support that we can give them makes a real difference. Looking back on my own career it was the support of my peers and colleagues that made my first few months all the easier: it was also them that introduced me to CIHT.

And as it was then, so it remains. At a time when the pressures in the work environment continue to be a challenge, we need to remember to continue to look out for our colleagues and provide support for each other. For a profession that is fundamentally people-centred, health and well-being is absolutely essential – and not just for those entering the profession but the more seasoned professional too.