HIGHLY COMMENDED: Edward Grimshaw, Building Plymouth Construction Technical Apprentice of the Year 2026

Congratulations to Edward Grimshaw for being Highly Commended for the Construction Technical Apprentice of the Year 2026.   

Edward began his journey in construction as a T Level student in Quantity Surveying, where his enthusiasm and potential quickly became clear. During a placement with the Willmott Dixon site management team, he discovered a passion for the operational side of construction, which led him to pursue a Site Management Degree Apprenticeship with UWE Bristol and Willmott Dixon in September 2022. Since making this transition, he has demonstrated exceptional progress, rapidly developing his skills and consistently excelling in his role.  

Upon receiving the award, Edward said: “Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my apprenticeship. When I first started, I never imagined I would be working on a major £140m Emergency Building project at Derriford Hospital. Being part of this has been an incredible achievement in itself. Through this experience, and through working on other projects with Willmott Dixon, I’m so pleased I pursued this apprenticeship and grateful to be working with such an amazing group of people.” 

Early in the £140m Emergency Building project at Derriford Hospital, Edward was challenged to “make a positive difference.” Despite the scale of the scheme, he stepped up immediately and took responsibility for three key pieces of work.  

The first involved coordinating the refurbishment of the former Lloyds Pharmacy unit into a new space for Plymouth Hospitals Charity. Edward played a pivotal role in managing the process, and the Trust was “overwhelmed” by the final outcome.  

His second ongoing responsibility is managing the weekly ‘look ahead’ calendar — a vital tool for coordinating activity between the project team, site operatives, and hospital staff to ensure smooth delivery in a live clinical environment.  

The third challenge required him to design a three-storey welfare facility for more than 250 workers. With minimal direction, Edward created a well considered, welcoming space including table tennis areas, picnic benches, modern drying rooms, and rest spaces — significantly improving workforce morale and productivity.  

 Edward remains calm under pressure and consistently demonstrates strong problem-solving skills. He leads with fairness, supports his team, and takes on new tasks with confidence. He has also shown real initiative beyond his everyday responsibilities. Recently, he organised a half day site visit for Willmott Dixon trainees, inviting supply chain partners to showcase the slipform concrete structure — a first for the business in the South West.   

In recent months, Edward has continued to grow in confidence, embracing opportunities outside his comfort zone. A standout example was his invitation to present at a meeting with Rick Willmott — the only trainee in attendance. He handled the task with professionalism and provided knowledgeable, clear responses.  

Outside of work, Edward remains committed to the industry. He undertakes ongoing professional development and works with his uncle’s landscaping business, while also exploring further qualifications and memberships such as the Chartered Institute of Building.  

His colleagues speak highly of him: “Ed is the best trainee that I have worked with in my 20 years within the construction industry” Leigh Dickson – Engineering Director, Highfield Engineering   

“Ed makes me want to come to work after 42 years, as Ed has a true desire to learn and impress. His drive and enthusiasm is contagious” Simon Whittingham – Project Lead for the Emergency Care Building – Derriford Hospital, Willmott Dixon   

"Ed has been a pleasure to work with in the first 6 months of the project, and has been so helpful in keeping staff informed of works around the hospital. Even though the work is disrupting sometimes for the staff working in the Emergency Department, they really appreciate Ed’s thorough updates and the consistent approach to communications” Bryonie Deeming – Programme Planning Manager at the Trust.   

Edward’s dedication, initiative, and professionalism make it clear why he has been Highly Commended for this award.