Former apprentice from County Durham among manufacturing sector’s most influential at age 22

A former apprentice at Darlington-based structural engineering firm Cleveland Bridge UK has been named among the most inspirational people in UK manufacturing .

Liam Simpson, 22, recently completed a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Construction Fabrication Platework at Cleveland Bridge and now works in the company’s quality department.

It was his performance during his time as an apprentice, and his transition into the firm’s workforce, that made him stand out to the 15-strong judging panel that decided this year’s Top 100 list for industry news outlet The Manufacturer.

The ranking includes CEOs, industry leaders and experienced professionals, selected from hundreds of candidates for the examples they set to young people aspiring to work in manufacturing.

Liam, from Crook, said: “I was very surprised, but really proud to be named in the Top 100.

“To make the list alongside some far more experienced people is great and shows how important apprenticeships are to the manufacturing industry.”

He added: “I hope that I can help inspire more young people to get into manufacturing and they receive the same support I have had from Cleveland Bridge.”

Cleveland Bridge UK managing director Chris Droogan commented: “Liam is an excellent example of the quality of apprentices we have at Cleveland Bridge who will be at the heart of our workforce for years to come.

“Throughout his apprenticeship and now, as he transitions to our become an important member of our team, he has shown tremendous commitment and application and appearing in the Top 100 is a just reward.”

The Manufacturer runs the listing, now in its fifth year, in partnership with Cranfield University.