Introducing the winner of Young Engineer of the Year 2024 – Joe Neeves

At the annual awards dinner, Joe Neeves, Intermediate Building Services Engineer at Concertus, recently won the CIBSE East Anglia Level 4 Young Engineer of the Year 2024 award.

Joe is studying at London Southbank University (LSBU), where he is in his fourth year of BEng (Hons). We recently sat down with Joe to discuss his early achievements, his studies, and what the future looks like for him.

What made you choose a career in building services?
Building services was never a career option during my education, and I only learned about it through my father, who is also in the industry.

Growing up in this environment sparked my curiosity and inspired a desire to understand the mechanics behind the buildings we inhabit. The more I learnt, the more I appreciated the critical role that building services play in ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability. I realised this field offers a blend of hands-on work and technical knowledge, which I’ve always been drawn to.

By starting my career and continuing my education like my father once did, I aim to honour his legacy while carving out my place in the industry. I find great satisfaction in knowing that I am following a path that has personal significance to me. With each step, I am driven by the ambition to contribute to the field, create innovative solutions, and ensure that the buildings we occupy are functional and enhance the quality of life for their occupants.

How does it feel to be recognised for your achievements?
Winning the award was a proud moment for me, but it would not have been possible without the continued support I received from former and current colleagues at Concertus.

I am grateful for all the connections I’ve made within the industry. Each interaction and relationship has contributed to my growth and success, shaping my experiences and knowledge. The mentorship, guidance, and inspiration from everyone I’ve had the pleasure of meeting have been invaluable. This award reflects my efforts and the collective support of a community that believes in collaboration and excellence. I am excited to carry this momentum forward and continue making impactful contributions alongside such talented individuals.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I envision myself having developed a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of my job role, equipping me to navigate the complexities and challenges of the engineering field confidently. My goal is to complete a BEng (Hons) Degree at London South Bank University (LSBU), which will formalise my knowledge and enhance my practical skills and theoretical foundation.

I see myself stepping into a leadership role where I can guide and support junior staff members, sharing the knowledge I have gained through experience and education. I aspire to foster collaboration and growth, helping to mentor others as they develop their skills.

Furthermore, I aim to continuously learn from my peers, who I deeply admire for their expertise and proficiency in the field. By surrounding myself with excellent colleagues, I hope to challenge myself to match their abilities and find unique ways to contribute to our team’s success. Ultimately, I see this journey as a pathway to personal and professional growth and making a meaningful impact in my field and within my organisation.

What would you say if you could give one piece of advice to someone who wanted to progress a career in building services?
Building services encompass a wide range of systems and processes that ensure buildings’ functionality, comfort, safety, and efficiency. This complexity often needs to be noticed by those outside the industry. The interplay between mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and environmental systems requires a deep understanding of various disciplines, from engineering to design and management.

If you’re looking for a career in this field, my most significant advice is to explore the many options available. Don’t hesitate to try everything the industry has to offer. This hands-on approach will allow you to discover what truly excites you. Whether it’s working on HVAC systems, lighting design, sustainable energy solutions, or project management, each area presents unique challenges and rewards.

Finding your passion can make all the difference in your career satisfaction and success. Once you identify what resonates with you, pursue it wholeheartedly. This could involve specialising in a particular area, gaining certifications, or seeking mentorship from experienced professionals. The building services industry continually evolves, fuelled by technological advancements and increasing demands for sustainability and efficiency. By immersing yourself in these experiences and learning from them, you will find a niche that fulfils your interests and contributes to the industry and innovation. Everyone’s path is unique, so embrace the journey of exploration and learning!

Joe’s achievements promise a bright future, and we look forward to sharing more about his career in the future.