Demonstrating the firm’s dedication to the future, it has undertaken a ‘levelling up’ exercise, paying an average of over 40% above the minimum wage for our WW:Academy Junior Level 2 staff across the business on top of College / University and ongoing training investments. This financial commitment not only provides opportunities but also acknowledges and rewards the hard work of its junior team.

As the sector navigates industry changes and embrace new technologies, the fresh perspectives of Wallace Whittle’s junior staff play a crucial role in futureproofing our operations. Wallace Whittle takes the lead in growing the next generation of engineers, ensuring the future of the company and the industry, is in safe hands.

Recent strides in nurturing young talent include the onboarding of over 30 new junior staff since its MBO in 2021. To further drive staff growth, the firm has introduced a unique ‘buy one get two free’ offer. When a regional office hires a junior staff member, head office steps in to cover the costs for another two, encouraging the expansion of the firm’s junior team across the business with the company covering the cost of their development years.

This initiative reflects the firm’s belief in the potential of new talent and our dedication to providing opportunities for growth. By doubling down on its commitment to junior staff, Wallace Whittle ensures a continuous influx of fresh ideas and perspectives that contribute to the dynamic evolution of the company.

Anticipating growth, the firm plans to bring in a further 30 new junior staff over the next three years, with 10 degree apprenticeships planned for 2024 across various locations in the UK, including Aberdeen, Belfast, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Warrington, and London.

Wallace Whittle’s commitment to developing in-house talent is further supported by the Wallace Whittle Academy, focusing on four unique levels across our people, each targeting different areas of development.

At Level 2, the Academy provides a base level of training for junior members, offering support and guidance to enhance their skills and knowledge. Juniors undergo technical training to deliver project information and learn how to provide a quality service in a timely manner. This includes exposure to insights from Main Contractor and MEP Contractor partners, Architects, Civil & Structural Engineers, Project Managers, and Quantity Surveyors, providing a holistic understanding of the industry.

Paul Hargreaves, academy manager, emphasises the Academy’s commitment to providing opportunities, he said: “We have an excellent enrollment of Level 2 Academy members from multiple disciplines, keen to learn and eager to develop. We feel it’s our duty to give them the opportunity they deserve; all they have to do is take it. We are already seeing great progress and feel that future projects will be in safe hands.”