The two-day visit provided an overview of the DWDR development, the various careers in construction and different routes into civil engineering.

Maddy initially shadowed Graduate Civil Engineer, Nuno Djabi, who has worked on the development for the last two years; but she also got first-hand introduction to the wider aspects of the £250m development through project planning, project management, design, tender process, cost planning, safety and the environment, and communications and stakeholder management.

Maddy said: “I knew work experience with a project like the Port’s Dover Western Docks Revival would result me in gaining a better understanding of the different paths to follow within civil engineering because this project encompasses all the different specialisms involved in a development of this scale.”

Kevin Williams, Senior Project Manager at the Port of Dover said: “Through initiatives like these, young people can gain a real insight into the industry and more importantly the different routes they can take to gain qualifications. We need civil engineers of the highest calibre and inspiring the next generation will allow us to access a wider pool of talent and secure a diverse, robust workforce for the future.”

Maddy added: “This gave me the opportunity to ask a wide variety of questions, which will hopefully stand me in good stead for when I start at University next autumn. I was fortunate to not only experience the office functions but also have a visit to each of the contractors on site.”

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