United Utilities’ engineer scoops national award

Mechanical engineer Ben Read, 28, from Cheshire has been named Professional Young Engineer of the Year by the Pump Centre.

The Pump Centre is a national network of companies specialising in engineering in the water sector. To win the prize Ben first had to be nominated and then present a summary of the work he has completed during the last year, to a panel of expert judges.

The former pupil of St Nicholas Catholic High School and Sixth Form College in Hartford, Cheshire, joined United Utilities as an apprentice nearly 10 years ago. Since completing an advanced level apprenticeship in engineering, he has gone on to complete a degree in Industrial Engineering at Wrexham Glyndwr University and is currently studying for an MSc in Reliability Engineering and Asset Management at the University of Manchester.

Ben is based at the water company’s head office in Lingley Mere, Warrington where he gets involved in designing and delivering engineering projects across both the clean and wastewater business areas.

He was nominated for the award by Principal Mechanical Engineer Nigel Martin who said: “Ben has always impressed us with his diligence and commitment at every stage of his career with us. As well as developing excellent technical skills, he has a very positive approach and people really enjoy working with him. We’re delighted with his success.”

Reflecting on his win Ben said: “It was a great surprise and a very proud moment for me, especially against the calibre of other nominees.

“The support I have had from United Utilities to continuously develop my professional skills and knowledge has helped me get this far and this award is a great recognition of that and of the brilliant work we do here.”