Young Engineer of the Year

Recognising a young engineer who has shown exceptional technical expertise, innovation, and dedication in their engineering role within the construction industry.

Marisa Kurimbokus – Raeon

Overview

As Head of Engineering at the innovative battery start-up Raeon, Marisa Kurimbokus leads the charge in developing custom battery systems across marine, automotive, robotics, and drone applications. With a background spanning world-leading firms such as Jaguar Land Rover, Lyra Electronics, and Aeristech, Marisa brings a wealth of experience in mechanical design, sustainability, and team leadership. She now spearheads all engineering design and manufacturing at Raeon, guiding a growing team through every stage of R&D and production while shaping the company’s technical strategy for the clean energy revolution.

Why They Stood Out

Marisa’s track record in net zero technology is exceptional. She has developed CO₂reduction strategies at Jaguar Land Rover, advanced hydrogen fuel cell systems at

Aeristech, and now pioneers next-generation battery technology at Raeon. Her innovative use of air-bearing compressor systems and leadership of the APC-funded Project HEIDI — focused on hydrogen fuel cells for buses — demonstrate her ability to merge creativity with engineering precision.

Recognised nationally, Marisa was named one of the “Top 50 Women in Engineering: Inventors and Innovators 2022” and awarded the IET Young Woman Engineer of the Year 2024. She is equally celebrated for her outreach — having established STEM programmes in multiple organisations and mentored more than 50 engineers to professional accreditation. Her advocacy for women, diversity, and inclusion in engineering makes her a true trailblazer.

Highlights

• Head of Engineering at Raeon, leading custom battery design and production.
• Delivered hydrogen fuel cell compressor innovations at Aeristech.
• Listed in Top 50 Women in Engineering 2022 for work on net zero technology.
• Winner: IET Young Woman Engineer of the Year 2024.
• Mentor and advocate for 50+ engineers pursuing professional registration.
• Led STEM outreach programmes at Triumph Motorcycles, Lyra Electronics, and Aeristech.
• Speaker and ambassador for diversity in engineering across national platforms.

Henry Jones – BAM Nuttall Ltd

Overview

Henry Jones, Site Civil Engineer at BAM Nuttall Ltd, combines technical mastery with innovation and leadership beyond his years. His work on major infrastructure and civil projects demonstrates both precision and creativity — consistently improving efficiency, sustainability, and safety across all aspects of site engineering. Henry’s dedication to raising standards has earned him recognition across the industry.

Why They Stood Out

Henry has already achieved remarkable success: awarded Degree Apprentice of the Year at the BIG Awards, Highly Commended at the CECA Southern Awards, and named an ICE QUEST Scholar. He has led drainage and dry dock projects to completion ahead of schedule, cutting material waste by 10% and introducing low-carbon concrete alternatives such as Ground Granulated Blast-furnace Slag (GGBS), reducing CO₂ emissions by nearly 50%.

Beyond technical achievement, Henry is driving positive change through mentorship and outreach. As Treasurer of CECA NextGen, he co-created a children’s book, “Sammi On Site,” to introduce primary school pupils to construction. His passion for developing others shines through his STEM Ambassador role and his leadership of the upcoming Sea Works 2025 Training and Careers Day.

Highlights

• Degree Apprentice of the Year, BIG Awards; Highly Commended, CECA Southern Awards.
• ICE QUEST Scholar recognised for excellence in civil engineering.
• Reduced material waste by 10% and CO₂ emissions by 50% on-site projects.
• Developed community engagement app for BAM Group to improve transparency.
• Treasurer, CECA NextGen, inspiring young entrants to construction.
• STEM Ambassador and mentor for school and university programmes.
• Leader of upcoming Sea Works 2025 Careers Day panel.

Charlie Mewis – JNM Engineering

Overview

As a Civil Engineer Apprentice at JNM Engineering, Charlie Mewis has quickly established himself as a vital member of the design team, specialising in drainage and highway design. His technical proficiency in modelling software such as PDS and FLOW, combined with his sharp problem-solving instincts, has seen him contribute to dozens of residential and commercial developments across the UK.

Why They Stood Out

Charlie’s rapid professional growth is extraordinary. Within months, he was independently managing projects — from single dwellings to multi-unit developments — designing drainage networks, attenuation systems, and highway layouts in full compliance with Building Regulations and SuDS standards. His innovative use of filtration systems to improve water quality on a four-house development demonstrated both environmental awareness and technical precision.

Equally valued for his positive energy and teamwork, Charlie’s mentorship of peers and commitment to learning new software have elevated standards across his firm. Judges praised his initiative, technical ability, and maturity, marking him as one of the most promising young civil engineers in the UK.

Highlights

• Delivered 20+ residential drainage and road design projects using PDS & FLOW.
• Designed filtration system improving water quality before brook discharge.
• Independently produced Section 104/106 applications and site layouts.
• Known for rapid progression, professionalism, and exceptional learning curve.
• Mentors peers and inspires new apprentices through example and positivity.
• Recognised internally for reliability, skill, and early engineering excellence.

Aedan Curran – VINCI Building

Overview

Aedan Curran, Technical Apprentice at VINCI Building, plays a leading role in delivering engineering excellence at Birmingham Airport. Managing both new-build and refurbishment schemes, Aedan oversees setting out, quality control, and technical compliance across multiple live-airfield projects. His precision, initiative, and professionalism make him a standout emerging engineer in one of the industry’s most challenging environments.

Why They Stood Out

Aedan has redefined what can be expected from an apprentice-level engineer. He conducted extensive site surveys to inform the design and tie-in of new airport structures, ensuring smooth integration between existing and new works. His innovative solution — designing an above-ground reinforced concrete plinth to replace traditional excavation foundations under tight site restrictions — was critical to project success.

Beyond his technical impact, Aedan mentors apprentices and T-Level students, leads health and safety tours, and serves as Environmental Champion. His commitment to personal growth is evident in his pursuit of a degree while undertaking full site responsibilities — embodying professionalism, resilience, and ambition.

Highlights

• Delivered innovative plinth design for restricted airport site conditions.
• Leads engineering delivery across multiple Birmingham Airport schemes.
• Completed HNC and pursuing degree-level qualification while working full-time.
• Mentors T-Level and apprentice students on-site.
• Environmental Champion and proactive leader in health and safety.
• Recognised for meticulous quality assurance and stakeholder communication.

Obed Appiah – HDR

Overview

Obed Appiah, Graduate Public Health Engineer at HDR, is one of the rising talents shaping the future of MEP design. With nearly three years of experience, Obed has contributed to major projects including Citi Group’s headquarters in Canary Wharf and The Gaumont redevelopment on King’s Road, delivering integrated, efficient, and regulation-compliant public health systems.

Why They Stood Out

Obed’s technical leadership and collaborative approach set him apart. His work designing drainage, water distribution, and fire suppression systems showcases a rare blend of precision and creativity. As Co-Chair of HDR’s Young Professionals Network, he drives initiatives across culture, career, and community, helping early-career engineers grow in confidence and competence.

Externally, Obed sits on the CIBSE SoPHE Young Engineers Network committee, organising industry events and mentoring peers. His active involvement in alumni outreach at Birmingham City University, combined with his pursuit of PRINCE2 certification and continuous CPD engagement, demonstrates an engineer committed to excellence, leadership, and lifelong learning.

Highlights

• Delivered PH design on Citi Group HQ and The Gaumont redevelopment.
• Co-Chair of HDR’s Young Professionals Network, supporting early-career talent.
• Committee member of CIBSE SoPHE YEN, promoting industry education.
• Active mentor and BCU alumni ambassador.
• Pursuing PRINCE2 accreditation and advanced MEP technical CPDs.
• Recognised for collaboration, technical skill, and inclusive leadership.

Wrap-Up

From battery innovation and airport infrastructure to sustainable drainage and MEP design, this year’s Young Engineer of the Year finalists exemplify the technical ingenuity, leadership, and passion redefining the construction industry.

They are the architects of the next era of engineering — proof that excellence, empathy, and innovation can power a truly sustainable future.