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Empowering the next generation of female engineers

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As one of the building automation sector’s leading drivers of better female representation, the Building Controls Industry Association’s (BCIA) Young Engineers Network (YEN) recently co-hosted the Together We Engineer event – a thought-provoking discussion on empowering women and the next generation.

Organised by the YEN and the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) Women in Building Services Engineering (WIBSE), the evening of panel debates and discussions brought together panellists from leading building services professional bodies and associations, such as BCIA Young Engineer of the Year and YEN member, Zoe Dickson, and BCIA Vice President Jen Vickers, to talk about how they are inspiring female professionals and the next generation.

The hugely important event, that took place in Manchester on Wednesday 18th June, featured two engaging panel sessions, entitled ‘Women in Engineering’ and ‘Inspiring the Next Generation’. Exploring the importance of inclusion, allyship, and innovation in shaping the future of engineering, the discussions sparked crucial conversations and empowered all in attendance to thrive in their respective disciplines while encouraging those that follow.

Jen Vickers, Vice President of the BCIA, sat on both panels and highlighted the importance of events like this focusing on increasing female representation in the industry. She said: “It’s important for women already in the industry to be visible in order to make it accessible for those who may not otherwise consider it as a career option – to quote the tennis player Billie Jean King, ‘You have to see it to be it.’

“There needs to be more visibility in schools and colleges, through delivering presentations and offering work placements to demonstrate to young women that it is a viable career path for them. Diversity of thought, from a wider range of presentations, leads to better problem-solving and more creative solutions.”

Kate O’Donnell, Business Development Manager, E-ON Controls and YEN regional lead for the North added: “Events like this spark inspiration, showing that women in BEMS aren’t just part of the future, they’re shaping it right now! This event matters because it’s all about real voices, real stories, and building a BEMS community where women thrive. It was brilliant to do this event alongside WIBSE, and YEN hope to do further collaborations with CIBSE that benefit both communities.”

Rachael Gilbert, WIBSE representative for CIBSE North West, co-organised the event and was delighted with the positive atmosphere created. She said: “The atmosphere was electric. The room was full of brilliant women and allies uplifting each other, sharing stories, and connecting through their experiences.

“The key takeaway was the importance, and potential, of connecting classrooms and companies. We left feeling energised to strengthen those links, making sure education and industry are working hand-in-hand to champion building services, future skills, and sustainable design. We’re now developing an event that opens up our world to teachers and asks how we can support them, their students and the curriculum.”

Find out more about the Young Engineers Network

Jen Vickers (Vice President of the BCIA)
Kate O'Donnell (YEN)
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Safeguard Materials or ‘Pay the Price’ in Wake of Storm Floris

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Construction cranes developing residential buildings under the stormy sky

Off the back of Storm Floris, energy solutions and temperature control specialist Aggreko is urging site managers to adopt more robust dehumidification and heating strategies in the face of high-risk weather in order to minimise damage to materials.

Storm Floris recently brought 90mph winds and torrential rain to the UK, posing significant disruption to operations across the north of England and Scotland.[1]

Chiming with this, Aggreko’s latest report, Building in Resilience: Weather-Proofing European Construction in a Changing Climate, found that damage to materials was the top concern regarding high-risk weather among UK construction managers, with almost 40% also stating that they had faced major delays, missed deadlines, and financial penalties as a result of high-risk weather.

Chris Smith, Head of Temperature Control at Aggreko, is emphasising the need for site managers to bolster their approach to dehumidification and heating in order to minimise the financial impact of both Floris and future storms.

He said: “As last year’s storm season evidenced, extreme weather is becoming all the more common in the UK, though volatile supply chains and rising material costs mean that the potential financial impact is greater than ever. As such, there is a renewed need for construction managers to deploy effective dehumidification and heating solutions to minimise damage to materials and ensure that sites are able to weather the storm.”

‘Storm season’ saw a record-breaking 12 named storms hit the UK between September 2023 and August 2024,[2] with the Met Office also forecasting that winters will be up to 30% wetter by 2070.[3]

More recently, a report from QBE Insurance Group, developed in collaboration with Control Risks, found that the construction sector is already facing surging material costs due to geopolitical developments, with copper, steel, aluminium, and timber all spiking, and some reaching all-time highs.[4]

Chris concluded: “With material costs on the rise, site managers must do all they can to safeguard their stocks against water damage, or pay the price. Copper, steel, aluminium, and timber – as well as wider materials such as concrete and insulation – are all susceptible to the effects of water ingress and damp, so an all-encompassing dehumidification and heating strategy is key.

“Bringing in solutions from a temperature control specialist can help materials to dry out quicker, allowing damage that may otherwise render them unusable to be avoided. While the worst of Storm Floris may have passed, it is certainly not the last of the UK’s wet weather, particularly as we approach the autumn and winter months, so I urge site managers to engage with these contacts ahead of time to get wet weather ready.”

Read Aggreko’s full report, Building in Resilience: Weather-Proofing European Construction in a Changing Climate.

[1]https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/c9vdm9v4349t

[2]https://weather.metoffice.gov.uk/warnings-and-advice/uk-storm-centre/uk-storm-season-2023-24

[3]https://weather.metoffice.gov.uk/climate-change/effects-of-climate-change

[4]https://qbeeurope.com/news-and-events/press-releases/construction-companies-need-to-take-action-to-avoid-supply-chain-pitfalls-amid-geopolitical-uncertainty-qbe-report/

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Avove Expands Its Operations into Northern Ireland

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A new chapter in growth and innovation as Avove acquires Jacopa’s Irish Operations.

Avove, a leading infrastructure and engineering services provider, is proud to announce its expansion into Northern Ireland, through the acquisition of Jacopa Ireland, a renowned specialist in the water and wastewater solutions industry.

This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Avove’s growth trajectory, bringing its proven expertise and cutting-edge solutions to a new market and working in a joint venture to provide service excellence to Northern Ireland Water. The acquired business, which will be known as Avove Ireland, complements Avove’s business in Great Britain where it has established a reputation for delivering high-quality and environmentally responsible water services.

Avove’s expansion into Ireland demonstrates its commitment to the water sector, bringing a fresh approach and investing in local expertise. Jacopa Ireland has established itself as a trusted name in the industry with a skilled workforce of 30 people, a reputation for innovation and a commitment to sustainability, which combined with Northern Ireland’s infrastructure needs, make this an ideal collaboration for Avove.

Avove’s Executive Chair, Mark Perkins, stated:

“We are delighted to welcome Jacopa Ireland into the Avove family. Their expertise, culture and passion align perfectly with our values and mark a significant milestone in our growth strategy.

With this acquisition we look forward to collaborating with Northern Ireland Water and combining the strengths of the Jacopa team with the experience and capability of Avove to provide a thoughtful approach and exceptional service.”

Avove’s Head of Strategic Projects, Ben Hawkins, commented:

“It’s another really exciting step for us, and a significant addition to our growing capability. We’ve been incredibly impressed with how the team operates from the outset and so this acquisition feels like a great fit.”

Avove is committed to enhancing infrastructure and improving the quality of life for local communities. With this acquisition, it aims to create employment opportunities, support the local economy, and contribute to Northern Ireland’s overall development.

Kieran Madine, Frameworks Manager at Jacopa Ireland, commented:

“Having spent my entire career in the water and wastewater sector, I’m delighted and excited by Jacopa’s alignment with Avove. This partnership opens tremendous opportunities as we join forces with a dynamic, innovative, and forward-thinking organisation. Avove’s business model, focused on delivering cutting-edge and sustainable solutions for the water industry in Ireland, aligns perfectly with our vision for growth and excellence.”

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Award-winning sustainability management

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Getriebebau NORD GmbH & Co. KG in Bargteheide has been awarded the EcoVadis gold medal this year. Having scored 78/100 points, the drive manufacturer is part of the top 4% of all globally rated companies while raising its score by 10 points compared to last year.

As an independent family business, NORD has always been standing for a long-term approach, integrity and reliability. These values also influence the sustainability management of our drive systems experts. “The golden EcoVadis award is an impressive testimony to our extensive efforts. But instead of resting on our laurels, we see this as motivation to consequently continue our way of responsible business management”, Jörg Niermann, Head of Marketing at NORD, emphasises. “In accordance with our principles, for the sake of future generations and in the interest of our customers worldwide.”

Focus on CO₂e-reduction
NORD scored 85/100 points in the “Environment” category, thus achieving the highest individual rating. The rated measures range from use of renewable energies and recovery of waste heat over energy-efficient production up to detailed CO₂e-reports according to Scope 1 to 3.

Ethics as a basic principle
In the “Ethics” category, NORD managed to impress with extensive guidelines and concrete measures such as trainings in corruption prevention, transparent procedures for data protection and established whistleblowing systems. A clear set of values helps guide our actions as a business and builds trust with our employees, partners and customers.

Employees and human rights
NORD’s promotion of fair working conditions positively influenced the final score as well. Compliance with a collective payment agreement or flexible working time models are part of our thriving business culture. We especially emphasise topics such as health, safety and equality through trainings, for example.

Responsibility in the supply chain
Through clear guidelines for sustainable procurement, risk assessments, audits and trainings, NORD also integrates suppliers into its sustainability concept. For example, conflict minerals are transparently monitored and assessed. The goal of our company is to establish a socially and ecologically responsible supply chain based on partnership.

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Ciro Casapulla Appointed New Head of CNH Construction for EMEA

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Ciro Casapulla has been appointed as the new Head of CNH Construction for the EMEA region. With more than 23 years of experience at CNH, Casapulla has held senior leadership roles spanning Manufacturing, R&D, and Quality across the Powertrain and Construction segments. In his new role, he will lead his team in driving business growth across EMEA, with a strong emphasis on enhancing customer satisfaction.

“I’m genuinely excited about the road ahead and confident in the market’s recovery, even in today’s challenging environment,” said Casapulla. “My top priority is to build strong, trusted relationships with our customers and dealer partners—working closely together to deliver effective solutions that meet their real needs. We are committed to being present, listening actively, and responding with agility. A key part of our strategy is driving practical innovation—transforming real-world insights into value-adding solutions that empower our customers’ success”.

CASE Construction Equipment sells and supports a full line of construction equipment around the world, including backhoe loaders, excavators, motor graders, wheel loaders, vibratory compaction rollers, crawler dozers, skid steers, compact track loaders and forklifts. Through CASE dealers, customers have access to a true professional partner with world-class equipment and aftermarket support, industry-leading warranties and flexible financing. More information is available at www.CASEce.com.

CASE Construction Equipment is a brand of CNH Industrial N.V. (NYSE: CNH) a world-class equipment, technology and services company. More information about CNH can be found online at www.cnh.com.

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The Importance of Sustainability in Masonry Support Manufacturing

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On our journey to a more sustainable built environment, building product manufacturers must look at both the now and the future role they play. Specifiers need to think about the materials used in buildings and their environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. From manufacturing processes to material specification, these choices matter. At IG Masonry Support, this challenge has become a driving force in how our company operates and why it is committed to improving efficiencies and driving product innovation which will enable the design and construction of more sustainable buildings.

Our sustainability journey began in 2020 with the goal of delivering our B.O.S.S A1 (Brick on Soffit System) as a Carbon Natural solution. Soon after, we assessed our entire company footprint. Today, it’s not just expected but it’s more important than ever to measure the environmental impact of our manufacturing processes, materials, and supply chain. What started as a series of small operational improvements quickly evolved into a long-term strategy that has reshaped our thinking across all departments.

Our leadership team and employees are fully aware of the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation. That’s why we made a collective decision to commit to annual Carbon Footprint reporting and to respond proactively to our findings. In 2021, IG Masonry Support became the first masonry support manufacturer in the UK to achieve Carbon Neutral status. While we recognise that credible carbon credit schemes are not a long-term solution for achieving Net Zero, we are seeing a year-on-year reduction in the emissions we need to offset. For us, this marks significant progress. We’re proud to continue investing in responsible initiatives, including renewable energy technologies, while working to reduce our operational impact.

Reducing our carbon footprint doesn’t happen overnight. It requires sustained commitment, targeted investment, and strategic upgrades, all intentionally aimed at lowering emissions. This has included significant improvements at our manufacturing sites in Swadlincote and Cookstown, such as transitioning to 100% renewable energy tariffs, adopting electric-powered equipment, and enhancing our manufacturing technologies. We’ve replaced diesel forklifts with electric alternatives, expanded our recycling facilities, and ensured that zero waste is sent to landfill, a critical benchmark in sustainable manufacturing.

B.O.S.S A1

One of the defining moments in our sustainability journey was the development of B.O.S.S. A1. Our Brick on Soffit System not only meets but exceeds the latest A1 fire regulations. Designed to deliver superior aesthetics and structural integrity, B.O.S.S. A1 gives the appearance of unsupported brickwork while significantly simplifying installation.

What makes this product truly stand out is its environmental profile. It became the first carbon neutral product of its kind on the market, combining functionality, compliance, and sustainability. Achieving this milestone gave us the confidence and motivation to take our ambitions even further.

The certification of B.O.S.S. A1 was just the beginning. It demonstrated that sustainability can be designed into a product from the outset and that environmental performance doesn’t have to come at the expense of structural or aesthetic quality.

IG Masonry Support's B.O.S.S. A1

Science Based Targets

To ensure that our sustainability strategy was both robust and achievable, we engaged with Carbon Footprint Ltd. With their guidance we have developed measurable targets to align with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) methodology, a globally recognised framework that helps companies set and achieve ambitious emissions reduction targets.

Through this framework, we identified and analysed our Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, giving us a comprehensive understanding of our carbon footprint. This transparency allowed us to identify immediate actions in areas like energy use and transport, while also highlighting the importance of collaboration with suppliers and partners to drive reductions across the supply chain. We are now on track to meet the 1.5°C Paris Agreement target, joining thousands of companies worldwide in tackling climate change.

None of what we have achieved would be possible without the dedication of our entire team. Sustainability is embedded within the culture at IG Masonry Support. From design to production, every individual plays a role in driving our environmental progress.  Backed by ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and BBA certifications, our commitment to excellence is clear.

Looking ahead, our goal is to continue leading the way in sustainable product manufacturing and bringing innovative, responsible solutions to market.

IG Masonry Support's Swadlincote Steel Fabrication Facility
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HALF OF WORK VAN THEFTS NOW HAPPEN WHILE ON THE JOB

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Summer is a busy time for tradespeople, with vans often left parked for long stretches. When a van is stolen, it’s not just the vehicle that’s lost, it’s valuable tools and crucial work time too.

A recent survey of over 500 tradespeople revealed that 33% have experienced van theft in the past two years, and 16% have had their vehicle broken into.

New research from temporary business van insurance experts, Tempcover, shows that half of all vehicle thefts occur while vans are parked at job sites, compared to just 7% outside the home.

In terms of break-ins outside the home, 31% of tradespeople reported damage with nothing stolen, while 8% experienced break-ins where both tools and other items were stolen, along with damage to their vans.

Tools, Time, and Trust: The Real Cost of Van Theft

A van break-in means more than just vehicle damage. Lost tools and unhappy customers due to job delays or cancellations can seriously hurt a tradesperson’s reputation. When asked what impact loss of vehicle /vehicle issues had on their work, the survey showed: 

  • 26% were unable to work for some time, having to cancel or delay jobs due to lack of transport
  • 40% had to rely on a vehicle from friends, family or colleagues to keep working
  • 15% had to buy a new vehicle altogether
  • 8% relied on lifts from others to get to jobs while their van was unusable
  • 6% received customer complaints due to last-minute job cancellations

 Contingency Plans

Despite the clear disruption caused by losing access to a work vehicle, many tradespeople are unfamiliar with some of the practical options available to stay on the road.

When asked about the first step they take if their work vehicle becomes out of action, 34% said they borrow another vehicle, while 27% opt to rent. However, 7% admitted they have no contingency plan in place.

Temporary business van insurance remains an underutilised resource. 43% of respondents said they are not aware of what it is or how it could help them, and only 19% had used it previously to get insured on an alternative vehicle during a period of disruption. A further 5% said they are currently considering it.

Claire Wills-Mckissick, an expert in temporary business van insurance at Tempcover, adds:

“Temporary business van insurance is a practical solution for tradespeople who suddenly find themselves without a vehicle. Whether their van has broken down, been stolen, or is in the garage for repairs, flexible short-term cover allows them to borrow a van and continue their work without interruption. It’s quick to arrange and can last from just a few hours to several weeks, helping minimise downtime, protect income, and maintain positive relationships with customers.”

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NI Water & Meridian Launch Award of New Contracts

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NI Water is delighted to announce that Meridian has been awarded 2 major contracts, exceeding £30m per annum, to provide essential improvements, repairs, and maintenance services for water and wastewater networks. In addition, Meridian will also deliver NI Water’s new development and metering infrastructure, ensuring reliable and sustainable services.

Speaking about the recent contracts awarded, Stephanie McCullagh, NI Water’s Director of Customer and Operations said:

“These contracts mark a significant step in NI Water’s commitment to improving operational efficiency and enhancing customer experience while delivering high quality water and wastewater services.

We are excited to build on our strong partnership with Meridian, working collaboratively to deliver a world-class service while keeping health and safety at the core of our operations.”

On the award of the contracts, Terry McCrum, Meridian’s Commercial Director added:


“We are absolutely delighted and incredibly proud to be continuing our vital work for NI Water under the new contracts.

This renewal is a testament to the strong partnership we’ve built, and we look forward to further contributing to the reliability and efficiency of NI Water’s infrastructure over the coming years.”

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FARRANS BEGINS CONSTRUCTION ON CLORE MANOR CARE HOME FOR CARE CONCERN GROUP

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Leading building and civil engineering contractor Farrans Construction has started work on Clore Manor Care Home in London for Care Concern Group.

The site, which is on the south side of the Great North Way in the Borough of Barnet, previously comprised of a 3-storey care home.

Farrans is designing and constructing a modern and efficient 6-floor care home which will have 108 bedrooms and underground parking facilities.

Construction is expected to last until late 2027.

The Care Concern Group is an independent care company which operates in England, Scotland and Wales. The company continues to invest in its existing portfolio as well as maintaining growth in future developments with support from funding investors and partners. Employing over 7,000 people, the diverse portfolio of care homes a range of care needs including residential, nursing, dementia and respite.

Clare Taylor, Contracts Manager for Farrans Construction, said: “We are delighted to be on site with this exciting project for our new client Care Concern Group. We have already erected new hoarding and installed our site welfare before constructing a new entrance road and undertaking ground excavation works in preparation for the piling activity which will run until November 2025. This is going to be a challenging project on a tight site footprint, beside a busy road and involving a lot of ground preparation to facilitate new basement levels, but we are well prepared with an excellent team on site.

“Farrans has an extensive portfolio of delivering for the care sector across England. In fact, we previously delivered neighbouring property Signature at Hendon Hall for Signature Care Homes so it is nice to be back in an area we have worked in before.”

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The UK’s smartest building inspires the next generation of BEMS engineers

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London’s smartest building, 150 Holborn, was the setting for the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA)’s Young Engineers Network (YEN)’s latest event – giving over 30 young engineers the chance to experience some of the most innovative and sustainable solutions in the flesh.

Utilising the latest smart building technology, the Sidara headquarters features a fully integrated Workplace Management System, Computer Aided Facility Management, and a mobile application tool to enable occupants to effectively engage with the building’s systems and infrastructure.

In fact, the building’s sustainability solutions and initiatives fully support collaboration, productivity, sustainability, and occupant wellbeing.

Featuring more than four hours of networking, panel discussions, group activities, demonstrations of software and hardware platforms, and a building tour, the event was a tremendous success, with attendees taking away:

  • Knowledge of future sustainability initiatives – with 150 Holborn being London’s smartest building, attendees got a glimpse of the strategies and schemes in place to cut emissions
  • Hands-on smart building technology experience – innovative smart building technology, including BEMS hardware and software, was demonstrated
  • Appreciation for new approaches – inspired by the building and the company, attendees had the opportunity to explore different ideas and think outside the box
  • Connections and relationships – attendees took part in group activities and presentations, sharing ideas and working collaboratively with fellow professionals

Employers also benefitted from:

  • Inspired employees – young professionals eager to develop and inspired to create smarter and greener buildings in the future
  • More knowledgeable talent – BEMS engineers coming back to the company with greater understanding and enhanced expertise
  • A greater focus on innovation – individuals keen to incorporate cutting-edge technology and solutions into building design and construction.

Lucy Gale, Customer Success Specialist at Schneider Electric, arranged the event and was delighted with how it had been received. She said: “It was a fantastic day and it was a pleasure to see the young engineers sharing ideas and working collaboratively to enhance an already incredibly smart building. Events like this are so important in inspiring the next generation of building services professionals. The energy, curiosity and creativity on display were truly impressive. It was also a great example of how collaboration across the industry can drive innovation and promote more sustainable practices in building controls. We’d also like to say a huge thank you to Sidara, Schneider Electric and BCIA for the support they provided.”

Josh Steel, Chair of the YEN, couldn’t hide his delight at getting to explore London’s smartest building and emphasised how important this sort of event was for the young engineers in attendance. He said: “I’ve been blown away by the design of this building and it’s very insightful to see the level of planning and detail that goes into it.

“What an unbelievable day we had. It was superb and it’s important to acknowledge these days are all put on for young engineers. They really took away an awful lot and it was so helpful for their development and appreciation of just how technology can improve building efficiency.”

YEN 150 Holborn Event 2
YEN 150 Holborn Event 3
YEN 150 Holborn Event 4
YEN 150 Holborn Event 5
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