As part of our new Colleague Spotlight series—where we shine a light on the people behind Howard Civil Engineering and celebrate the talent, dedication and career journeys across the business—we’re pleased to introduce Hayley Ashton.
Joining Howard Civil Engineering in August 2024, Hayley has quickly established herself as a valued member of the pre-construction team. Starting her career as a Pre-Construction Apprentice, she has already demonstrated strong commitment and enthusiasm for the industry.
After successfully completing her Level 4 Construction Quantity Surveying Technician qualification at Leeds College of Building—with distinctions across the board—Hayley is now preparing to take the next step in her journey, progressing onto Level 5 and 6 apprenticeships later this year.
Working within the pre-construction team, Hayley plays a key role in estimating for a range of HCE projects across the region. Her work contributes to the early planning and financial management stages, helping to shape projects before they reach site.
Inspired by her father, who also worked in construction as an estimator, Hayley chose to pursue a career in the industry and hasn’t looked back since. Her dedication and positive attitude were recognised when she was named Student of the Year at HCE’s Building Futures Awards, celebrating the company’s top apprentices.
Hayley has embraced the opportunity to balance academic learning with real-world experience, bringing fresh perspective, curiosity and energy to the team.
Q&A with Hayley
What’s been one of your proudest professional achievements?
One of my proudest moments has been helping to secure a project. It’s really rewarding to know that the work I’ve contributed to during the estimating stage has played a part in winning a scheme. Supporting colleagues through that process and seeing it all come together gives you a real sense of achievement.
Is there a project you’ve worked on that stands out to you most and why?
I really enjoyed working on a large and complex scheme involving three reinforced concrete frames, and I learned a huge amount while working on it—especially around frame structures and take-offs. It was really valuable experience and gave me a much deeper understanding of large-scale projects.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career?
Definitely to ask questions if you’re unsure. Early on, you realise that it’s far better to check something than to assume and risk getting it wrong. Everyone is always willing to help, and you learn so much faster that way.
What aspect of your role do you enjoy most?
I really enjoy the problem-solving side of the role—working things out, overcoming challenges, and finding solutions. There’s something really satisfying about getting into the detail of a project and figuring out the best way forward.
What’s the most challenging part of your role?
Working on projects with very tight or unrealistic timescales can be challenging. It can put pressure on the team, but it also teaches you how to prioritise, stay organised and work efficiently.
Are there any emerging trends or technologies in the industry that excite you?
AI is definitely something I find interesting. It has the potential to improve efficiency in areas like estimating and planning. I’m curious to see how it develops within the construction industry.
What skills do you think are most important for success in civil engineering today?
Good communication is essential, along with strong technical knowledge. Being able to clearly share ideas, ask the right questions, and understand the details of a project all make a big difference.
How would you describe the company culture in three words?
Welcoming, hardworking, rewarding.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, and I love being with my dogs!
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the industry?
Just try your best. It’s a great industry with lots of opportunities if you’re willing to put the effort in.
What motivates you professionally?
The opportunities for progression really motivate me. Knowing that there’s a clear path to develop and build a long-term career.
What are you looking forward to most in the next year?
I’m looking forward to helping secure more schemes and hopefully getting out onto site more to see projects in practice.
What’s one thing you couldn’t get through the workday without?
A good laugh with colleagues. It’s a small thing but it really makes a difference!
Howard Civil Engineering (HCE) are incredibly proud to celebrate the achievements of one of our apprentices, Blake Mills, who has been awarded a Term 1 Excellence Award by Leeds College of Building.
Blake’s award recognises his 100% attendance and consistent commitment to completing and submitting work to a high standard, attributes that reflect both his personal dedication and his professional attitude to learning and development.
Recognising Commitment and Potential
Blake’s achievement is a testament to the qualities that underpin success in the construction industry: reliability, discipline, and a strong work ethic. Maintaining full attendance while balancing the demands of an apprenticeship demonstrates a level of commitment that sets a strong foundation for a long-term career.
At HCE, we actively seek out individuals who show this kind of drive and determination. Blake’s recognition is not only a personal milestone but also an example of the high standards we encourage across all our apprentices.
Investing in the Next Generation
As one of the North’s leading civil engineering contractors, HCE have built our reputation on quality, safety, and long-term relationships. A key part of that success is our ongoing investment in apprenticeships, helping to develop the next generation of construction professionals.
We are passionate about creating opportunities for young people to enter the industry, providing them with:
- Hands-on site experience
- Structured academic learning
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
- Clear career progression pathways
By combining practical experience with formal education, apprentices like Blake gain the skills and confidence needed to thrive in a fast-paced and evolving sector.
The Value of Strong Training Partnerships
Our collaboration with Leeds College of Building plays a vital role in this journey. As the UK’s only specialist further education college dedicated to construction, the college delivers industry-focused training that equips students with real-world skills.
The college has also received national recognition for its commitment to apprenticeships, including being named Construction Apprenticeship College of the Year, highlighting its impact on developing future talent in the industry.
This partnership ensures that apprentices benefit from both academic excellence and practical application, creating well-rounded professionals ready to contribute from day one.
Building Careers for the Future
Blake’s success is a reminder of what can be achieved when talent, opportunity, and support come together. At HCE, we are committed to continuing this investment—supporting apprentices not just in gaining qualifications, but in building meaningful, long-term careers within the construction industry.
We congratulate Blake on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing his continued development as part of the HCE team.
Women currently account for around 16% of the overall construction workforce in the UK* – a noticeable improvement from around 11% a decade ago. While progress is being made, the industry continues to work towards greater gender balance, particularly in on-site roles where the workforce remains predominantly male.
While on-site roles remain male-dominated, increasing female representation is visible within the wider project support and pre-construction framework, where talented women are playing an essential role in delivering complex infrastructure schemes across the region.
That’s certainly the case at Howard Civil Engineering: as part of Women in Construction Week, we’re proud to spotlight two members of the HCE team – Holly Moore and Hayley Ashton – who are building rewarding careers in the sector and helping to shape its future.
Holly Moore – On-Site Project Coordinator
Holly’s route into construction began in recruitment, where she spent two years specialising in the industry. She then moved into contracts administration with a building services engineering company, a role she held for six and a half years before joining Howard Civil Engineering (HCE) as an On-Site Project Coordinator.
Her position is pivotal to the smooth running of major schemes. Holly manages key administrative responsibilities including site inductions, recording hours, ordering PPE, tracking CSCS cards and tickets, overseeing Good Received Notices (GRNs), and updating clients and contractors with site reports.
Holly’s remit also extends into sustainability, an increasingly important focus across the construction industry. Holly carries out all carbon reporting for HCE’s Skelton Grange and Knostrop sites, ensuring environmental performance is accurately monitored and recorded. In addition, she updates drawing registers, logs samples, files test results, and manages site fuel and AdBlue orders.
Holly says:
“I felt welcome from day one at HCE. It’s a forward‑thinking company where I’ve always felt supported and treated fairly. Building a career in construction as a woman is challenging in the best way, and it’s an industry I genuinely enjoy being part of.
Although on‑site teams are still predominantly male, I’m encouraged by the growing number of women in technical roles across our projects. We’re seeing opportunities today that simply weren’t common 20 years ago. for example, I regularly collaborate with a female Geotechnical Engineer from one of our subcontractors. It’s inspiring to see that change happening.”
Her experience reflects a broader shift within the industry – with more women entering technical and project support roles that are vital to successful project delivery.
Hayley Ashton – Pre-Construction Apprentice
Joining Howard Civil Engineering in August 2024 as a Pre-Construction Apprentice, Hayley Ashton has made an outstanding start to her career.
Having recently completed her Level 4 Construction Quantity Surveying Technician qualification at Leeds College of Building, she is now preparing to progress to degree-level study. Within the pre-construction team, Hayley carries out estimating for various HCE sites across the region, contributing directly to the early-stage planning and financial management of projects.
Hayley has embraced the opportunity to combine academic study with hands-on industry experience, bringing enthusiasm, fresh thinking and curiosity to the team. Her dedication was recognised last year when she won Student of the Year at HCE’s Development Awards, which celebrate outstanding apprentices across the business.
Hayley says:
“My dad worked in construction, also as an Estimator, and he encouraged me to consider the industry. I’m really glad I made the decision to go into construction and HCE is a great company for young women to develop a career. I am new to the industry so I can’t speak with a lot of experience about how female representation has changed, but I have studied alongside a lot of other women apprentices preparing for a career in the industry.”
Her journey highlights the growing number of young women choosing construction pathways, particularly through apprenticeship and technical qualification routes.
Looking Ahead
Stories like Holly’s and Hayley’s demonstrate the significant strides being made across project support, pre-construction, commercial and technical disciplines.
At HCE, there is a clear commitment to creating an inclusive, forward-thinking environment where women can thrive, develop and progress. By supporting apprenticeships, championing technical careers and fostering a culture built on respect and opportunity, HCE is helping to reshape perceptions of the industry.
For construction to continue evolving, it must actively attract and retain female talent at every level. Encouraging more women into engineering, commercial and operational roles will help unlock a wider talent pool and further strengthen the industry.
Women in Construction Week provides an opportunity to celebrate progress, but more importantly, to reaffirm the sector’s commitment to building a workforce that truly reflects the communities it serves.
At Howard Civil Engineering, our projects span highways, infrastructure and complex civil engineering schemes across the region. Alongside this work, we remain closely connected to the communities where our teams live and work — and we believe practical support, when we’re able to offer it, can make a real difference locally.
Earlier this week, members of our team from the Skelton Grange site in Leeds attended St Theresa’s Catholic Primary School in Crossgates (LS15 8RQ) to help address an ongoing issue affecting part of the school grounds.
Addressing a Practical Challenge
A section of the school’s car park had deteriorated over time, becoming uneven and hazardous — particularly during periods of wet weather. The condition of the surface made access to the playground difficult for both staff and pupils and had become an ongoing concern for the school.
The issue was brought to our attention by a member of the HCE team whose children attend the school. After discussing the situation, Managing Director Michael Howard agreed that we could assist in improving the area.
Working with the Headteacher, the resurfacing works were carefully planned to take place during the half-term break, ensuring minimal disruption to school activities.
A Coordinated Effort
HCE provided staff, plant, materials and expertise to complete the resurfacing works at no cost to the school. As with any project we undertake, planning, safety and efficiency remained central to the approach.
By scheduling the works during the holiday period, the improved surface was ready for use as soon as pupils returned — offering safer access and improved usability, particularly in wet conditions.
Praise from the Head Teacher
Soon after the completion of the work, Howard Civil Engineering were delighted to receive a message of thanks from Head Teacher, Jane Ryan:
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Howard Engineering for the outstanding tarmac work completed at our primary school. From start to finish, the team were professional, reliable, and considerate of our school environment.
The work was carried out efficiently and to a very high standard, with minimal disruption to the school. The staff were friendly and respectful taking great care to ensure the area was left clean and safe at the end of each day. The finished tarmac surface has made a huge difference to our road up to school. It is safer, looks fantastic, and we have already had lots of positive comments from staff, parents and children about how lovely it is to walk up the road without dodging potholes.
We are so grateful to Howard Engineering for their very generous offer to complete the work for us. We would not hesitate to recommend Howard Engineering to other schools, companies or organisations looking for high-quality workmanship and a dependable service. Thank you again for helping to improve our school environment.”
Thos words mean a lot to us. They reflect the pride our teams take in delivering work that not only meets technical standards but also has a positive impact on everyday community life.
Rooted in the Community
As a Yorkshire-based business, we recognise that our role extends beyond the schemes we deliver. Schools form an important part of the communities we operate in, supporting families and future generations.
We’re pleased to have been able to assist St Theresa’s in resolving this issue and hope the improvements will benefit staff and pupils for years to come.
To recognise those who are excelling through training, learning, and professional development, Howard Civil Engineering proudly launched the Building Futures Awards in 2025. This new initiative focuses on individuals who are building their careers and professional credentials within our organisation, becoming highly valued members of our team along the way.
The inaugural awards highlighted five remarkable colleagues whose hard work, enthusiasm, and dedication to growth truly stand out.
Daniel Heffernan – Apprentice of the Year (Winner)
Daniel’s commitment to excellence in his Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying has been nothing short of inspiring. Having already achieved outstanding recognition this year — winning both the Commitment to the College Award and the prestigious Principal’s Award at the Leeds College of Building BIG (Building Industry Greats) Awards — Daniel continues to set the benchmark for professionalism and dedication.
Since joining Howard in 2019 and progressing from a Level 4 qualification to his current degree-level studies, Daniel has embodied the company’s values of growth, integrity, and excellence. His willingness to support fellow apprentices, coupled with his drive to continually learn and improve, makes him a truly deserving winner of Apprentice of the Year.
Mikey Cosgrove – Apprentice of the Year (Highly Commended)
Mikey joined us as an Apprentice Engineer and has shown exceptional enthusiasm, technical skill, and a proactive approach to learning throughout his apprenticeship. His hands-on attitude and growing engineering expertise have made him a vital member of the team and an outstanding example of dedication in action.
Earlier this year, Mikey demonstrated his capabilities in managing the countdown to completion of a project at Leeds Bradford Airport. His excellent work ethic, attention to detail, and effective use of Field View allowed us to achieve a defect-free handover of the terminal building and external yard slabs.
Mikey has completed his Level 3 Civil Engineering Technician course and is looking ahead to a bright future with Howard Civil Engineering.
Lucas Lee – Rising Star (Winner)
Lucas has demonstrated impressive progress in his career development after joining us as a Topman, assisting our operatives carrying out earthworks. He has since transitioned to Pipelayer, proving to be equally capable and reliable in his current role. His consistent performance, reliability, and determination on site reflect his commitment to growth and continuous improvement.
Alex Fowler – Rising Star (Highly Commended)
Alex has followed the same pathway as Lucas, starting out as a Topman before moving to Pipelayer. In both roles, he has demonstrated a very strong work ethic and a commitment to personal and professional advancement. His rapid progress and willingness to take on new challenges are a credit to both himself and his team.
Hayley Ashton – Student of the Year
Joining Howard Civil Engineering in August 2024 as a Pre-Construction Apprentice, Hayley has made an excellent start to her career. Currently studying for her Level 4 Construction Quantity Surveying Technician qualification at Leeds College of Building, Hayley has embraced the opportunity to combine academic study with practical industry experience. She brings enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and curiosity to the pre-construction team. Hayley is an exceptionally talented individual with enormous potential, and we’re excited to support her continued growth and long-term progression in the years ahead.
Michael Howard, Managing Director at Howard Civil Engineering, presented our five award winners with a trophy and certificate in recognition of their success. Commenting on the awards, Michael said:
“Our five Building Futures Award winners have achieved outstanding progress early in their careers. We’re proud to shine a light on their passion, skill, determination, and ambition. It was extremely difficult to narrow down our contenders to five winners – I’m pleased to say we have so many colleagues excelling across all areas of our business. Congratulations and thank you to our winners, but also a big thank you to all our other fantastic colleagues who have played such a huge part in the company’s success.”
Our Building Futures Award winners are an inspiration to anyone considering a career in construction. Their success demonstrates the value of providing a strong foundation for the next generation of construction professionals.
On Wednesday 22nd October, our teams came together for two fundraising events in aid of Breast Cancer Now, the UK’s largest breast cancer charity.
Our efforts coincided with Breast Cancer Now’s Wear It Pink Day, one of the biggest fundraising events in the UK. Each October, thousands of people across workplaces, schools, and communities wear pink to raise vital funds for breast cancer research and support. By hosting our events, we were proud to play our part in helping make life-changing breast cancer research and support happen.
The first of the day’s two events was a HCE v Wates Group 5-a-side Football Match. The two companies are used to being on the same team in the delivery of projects, but on this occasion, we were pitted against each other in a competitive but good-natured game at Joseph Norton Academy, Huddersfield. The HCE players sported pink “Stand Up to Cancer” hi-vis vests, showing that even in competition, we stand united for a cause that touches so many lives.
The second charity event was a Sponsored ‘Library to Library’ Walk which took place further north. HCE staff joined other volunteers for two-hour sponsored walk from the British Library to the Boston Spa Library. The fundraising team wore plenty of pink and carried donation buckets to collect contributions throughout the journey. Every step helped to raise funds for Breast Cancer Now, supporting vital research and providing hope for those affected by breast cancer.
Refreshments were provided after both events, providing a well-earned break for everyone involved and an opportunity to reflect on the collective effort made to support such an important cause.
HCE are continuing our fundraising during Breast Cancer Awareness Month – if you’d like to support this vital cause, please donate via our Just Giving page below!
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