0115 704 3969
3rd July 2020
As the UK begins to emerge from lockdown we are delighted to introduce our newest member of the team Jacob Clifford. Joining as a Trainee Civil Engineer, Jacob is a great example of the young talent emerging in the UK and reinforces our continued promise to create opportunities for the post graduate sector.
Jacob is currently completing his Master’s degree in Transportation Infrastructure Engineering at the University Nottingham having previously completed a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at Liverpool John Moores University. Jacob has also completed a 13-month work experience placement as a site engineer, working with precast concrete structures, pile foundations, earthworks and temporary works.
New to the consultancy side of civil engineering, he has been making a difference already and we appreciate that it can’t have been an easy first day meeting the team virtually while working remotely. Jacob comments, “having only been with PJS a few weeks I can already see how conscientiousness the team and company is as a whole. They have the right balance that is friendly and professional which translates to great client relationships and understanding. There is a real team spirit across the board and I look forward being part of it.”
Being part of a smaller organisation might not appeal to most starting a career however Jacob sees the real value in being able to work directly with the senior team and is not only putting what he learned in university to good use but equally having the opportunity to explore more commercially innovative solutions.
He recounts from his placement working on the Yorkshire Sculpture Park / Bretton Reservoir improvements scheme, where “the scope of work was great for my development and kept the job interesting. The location of the site was an added bonus too and I am looking forward to getting involved in the various development projects PJS are working on.” He recalls that the key learnings from his previous work experience ensures he is thorough in checking design solutions are not only achievable but will explore additional efficiencies that will impact on both costs and construction, without affecting the quality of finish. This commercial acumen is essential when working consultancy side.
Jacob describes himself as competitive, and enjoys racket sports, so perhaps we need to add to the team sporting tournaments this year when we are back together at head office, adapting the pool table for table tennis might be an idea!
Paul Smith comments “I am so delighted to be expanding the team and ensuring we are committed to growing year on year, despite the current climate. Fortunately, we have been able to continue our work during this time and our team have been able to work remotely. We ensure the health, safety and well-being of all staff is at the forefront of the business and look forward to having the full team back in the office real soon so that we can welcome Jacob in person.”
