One of Griffiths’ Apprentice Civil Engineers has been nominated for the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) South West Apprentice of the Year award. James Morris, currently Site Engineer at Bristol Airport, is currently in his second year of a BTEC Level 3 in Civil Engineering at Weston College.
James has made rapid progress on site and has developed from an Assistant Engineer to now taking full responsibility for all setting out on key elements of works that Griffiths deliver for the Airport.
As well as impressing on site, James is also playing a crucial role in our efforts to inspire the next generation of Civil Engineers. He has attended various local schools and careers events – speaking to pupils and parents about our industry and his role and experiences. During National Apprentice Week 2020, James was the star of his colleges social media campaign which aimed to highlight the benefits of the apprentice route over full-time further education. The video can be seen HERE.
James was nominated for his award by Operations Director Simon Dunn and Works Manager at Bristol Airport Barry Miles. Simon said:
We are so proud of James. He thoroughly deserves to be shortlisted for such an award. His passion is clear to see and since joining Griffiths he has impressed all of his colleagues with his hard work, and how quickly he picks new skills up. He is also committed to encouraging others into the industry, often doing this in his own time which is very commendable. Although he is only 18, his approach, manners and respect for others is beyond his age. We know that we can always rely on James, and he is the perfect apprenticeship role model.
We are delighted that James has received this nomination, a clear indication of his ability and contribution at such a young age to the industry. His contribution at Bristol Airport has included some vital elements of infrastructure to improve passenger experience and improve Bristol Airport as the gateway to the South West. These have included the new Car Rental Centre, Access improvements to the Silverzone Car Park and the new Drop Off Zone adjacent to the main terminal. James is also airside qualified and assists with works within the airside environment.
Following the completion of his current BTEC Level 3 qualification, James hopes to continue his route to a professional qualification by continuing to combine his work and studies. The next step is degree-level study and James is fully focussed on a part time HNC course at Weston College.