WSP engineer Nicola Graham is named Graduate of the Year

WSP graduate engineer Nicola Graham is named Graduate of the Year at the New Civil Engineer (NCE) Graduate and Apprentice 2022 Awards.

"Very proud to see Nicola Graham, one of our fantastic graduate engineers, receive Graduate of the Year at the New Civil Engineer Graduate & Apprentice 2022 Awards last Friday," said WSP.

Showcasing strong skills and in-depth industry knowledge

NCE celebrated the 25th anniversary of this annual event. In 1997, Nicola McChlery was named the first Graduate of the Year, the only category at the time, for her work as a graduate structural engineer at Arup. Then over the years, the awards grew stronger and new categories were added. The awards given in 2022 included: Graduate of the Year, Degree Apprentice of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Outstanding Contribution to Net Zero Carbon, Outstanding Contribution to Digital Engineering and Outstanding Contribution to the Industry.

A total of 121 entries were submitted, demonstrating the high value young engineers place on the event. In their written submissions the candidates provided information about their education and careers, and answered a question on the benefits of modern methods of construction. The benefits of these methods and ways to increase their adoption was the theme of the presentation that those shortlisted had to deliver to the panel of judges. The 14 judges of this year’s awards hold key roles in industry associations, clients, contractors and consultants.

Speaking at the event, NCE Features Editor Sotiris Kanaris said: “It wasn’t the sheer number of entries that made shortlisting for every category difficult but the quality of those entries, the judges said. Most candidates showcased in-depth knowledge on industry issues and strong skills. That is why all the candidates that have been shortlisted should be very proud of themselves. During their presentation and interviews these candidates showed real passion for their job and determination to help the industry become more efficient and decarbonise.”

WSP graduates support business success

Each year WSP recruits up to 300 graduates for its UK business, recruiting talented graduates not only supports its business success, but ensures that WSP contributes to the development of professionals in its industry for future generations.