Lucy Hopkins from Twickenham has been crowned Most Promising Trainee Civil Engineer at this year's Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Southern Awards in London.

Ms Hopkins, who is employed by civil engineering and infrastructure specialists Barhale, stood out for her exceptional technical abilities and drive, making a remarkable impression from the outset of her career.

Judges praised her intellectual curiosity and performance, which not only exceeded programme expectations but also inspired her peers and 2024 graduate intake.

She also made Barhale history, becoming the company's first ever graduate to be promoted from Graduate Engineer to Site Engineer within the first year of its two-year graduate scheme.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lucy has been helping to shape the future of the industry by mentoring Year 9 students at Bishop Hatfield Girls' School, sharing her passion and encouraging more young people to consider a career in civil engineering.

Alan Cox, Chair of CECA Southern, praised Ms Hopkins achievements: "Lucy is a born leader, is an inspiration to her peers and is clearly a worthy winner.

"She also goes out of her way to encourage more young people to consider a career in our great industry."

The CECA Southern Awards, held annually, celebrate exceptional emerging talent in the sector.

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The Twickenham engineer received an engraved trophy and a £500 prize, with her award sponsored by infrastructure specialists Clancy.

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