For Nuno Djabi, it not only became the norm, but also proved to be the start of a demanding two years.

Nuno, originally from Portugal, joined the Port of Dover’s flagship Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) development as a graduate Civil Engineer in 2016 after graduating from Anglia Ruskin University with a BEng in Civil Engineering.

He has been a part of the project team, managing the various aspects of civils works which included the A20 Junction Improvement programme, the Prince of Wales demolition enabling works and the main marine civil engineering phases of DWDR Stage 1 & 2. 

He was also seconded to work with the contractor delivering the new marine infrastructure, VSBW – a joint venture with VolkerStevin Boskalis Westminster, as part of his tailored graduate programme working as a site engineer where he oversaw the construction of Berth A, Berth C and the Marina Curve.

Nuno said: “It was the prospect of working on some of the most challenging and complex engineering projects in Europe that made me choose a career in construction. The job is always changing and every day brings a new challenge.

“I am learning from some of the best who have such a wide array of knowledge and the job itself is so diverse. I am not only learning about civil engineering, there are buildings, highways and the marine environment which are helping me expand my knowledge.”

Currently Nuno is involved in the tender and design process for the DWDR Stage 3 and has aspirations to become a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and Project Manager. He is using the DWDR development as the platform to learn under its accredited engineers and leadership team.

Kevin Williams, Senior Project Manager at the Port of Dover, said: “Dover Western Docks Revival is a fantastic opportunity for graduates to join us and play a key role in delivering enhanced national infrastructure for Europe’s busiest ferry port.

“Graduates will receive unique frontline experience on a major infrastructure project, picking up transferable skills that will open the door to a range of future projects and careers.

“The graduate programme also helps us develop the next generation of leaders with technical skills to drive innovation in a maritime industry where experts have highlighted looming shortages of talent.

ENDS

Notes to editors

 

  1. Port of Dover

The Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) is a one-off opportunity for the regeneration of Dover, bringing new investment into the area.  With UK Government planning approval and supported by a mix of private finance and European Union grant funding, DWDR will deliver:

 

  • Relocation and further development of the cargo business with a new cargo terminal and distribution centre;
  • Creation of greater space within the Eastern Docks for ferry traffic;
  • A transformed waterfront to ultimately attract a host of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants with Dover’s unique backdrop of the harbour, cliffs and castle; and
  • Much needed quality employment opportunities for local people.

 

DWDR scored ‘Excellent’ for the CEEQUAL Whole Team Interim Award – the evidence-based sustainability assessment, rating and awards scheme that promotes the achievement of high environmental and social performance in civil engineering, infrastructure, landscaping and public realm projects.

www.doverport.co.uk/DWDR 

 

  1. VSBW

VSBW is a joint venture between VolkerStevin and Boskalis Westminster to deliver the marine structures and bridge contract for the Port of Dover’s flagship Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) development.

With a contract value of £115m, this construction stage will include the design and build of two new berths including quay walls and land reclamation, a new marina pier, the marina curve, navigation channel and new lock gates, Bascule Bridge and capital dredging work.

 

  1. Image

Nuno leading the site tour of the ICE President visit (July 2017)