A Darlington-based engineer and Chair of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) North East Graduates and Students Committee is celebrating continued industry success after being recognised by a major construction body.
Jenna Allen, who works as an assistant engineer at A-one+, which carries out work on behalf of Highways England, in the North East, was one of only three people shortlisted in the Personality of the Year category at the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Pride of Construction Awards.
The shortlisting follows Jenna winning the Young Achiever Award at the Constructing Excellence in the North East Awards and, subsequently, being shortlisted in the national awards. She was also Highly Commended in the Young Designer of the Year category at the British Engineering Excellence Awards (BEEA).
Despite only starting her career in civil engineering six years ago, Jenna, in addition to her award success, was the first engineer from a technician background to be appointed Chair of the ICE North East’s Graduates and Students Committee.
Jenna, 26, from Chester-le-Street, said: “I am extremely proud to have been recognised in a number of our industry’s reputable award ceremonies, which all came as a shock to me. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the industry so far, especially working on some key infrastructure projects and promoting civil engineering to younger audiences.
“I would like to thank my colleagues at A-one + for their continued support, not to mention my committee members at the ICE, who have been very welcoming ever since I joined.”
Penny Marshall, Director of ICE North East, said: “The progress that Jenna has made is remarkable, despite only engaging with the ICE in 2012. She is a prime example of someone who has dedicated themselves to the profession, put in plenty of hard work, and has reaped the rewards.
“Jenna has also performed exceptionally well in her role as chair of the ICE Graduates and Students Committee, and I’m sure she will enjoy further award successes in the future. I would like to wish Jenna all the best with her career.”