Gabriela Susu, from Rainham, has been named the Most Promising Trainee Civil Engineer at the prestigious Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Southern Awards ceremony in London.
Gabriela, originally from Romania, wowed the judges with her technical skill, resilience and rapid progression since joining Barhale as a Graduate Engineer.
She arrived in the UK possessing little English, but quickly mastered technical site language, and earned promotion to Site Engineer in just five months – less than half the usual timeframe. She also mentors graduates, and champions STEM engagement while balancing motherhood and a demanding site career.
Kevin Valentine, CECA Southern Chair, commented:
“Gabriela is a rising star in our industry and is a notable example to others that with hard work, young people can excel and build lasting and meaningful careers in civil engineering construction.
“From engineering, project management and finance to IT, marketing, site work or one of many other roles, the training and career development opportunities are huge for every talent and every background.”
The CECA Southern Awards are presented annually in recognition of exceptional performance. As winner of Most Promising Trainee Civil Engineer Award, sponsored by Murphy, Gabriela received an inscribed trophy and cheque for £500.
