To mark Tomorrow's Engineers Week, Grantham Graduate Engineer James O'Neill believes it is never too early for budding engineers to seek support from the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)

James, who attended King's School, has always enjoyed Maths and problem solving, and knew from quite early on he wanted to become an engineer, although he wasn't sure which area to specialise in.

After suggestion from his parents, James researched civil engineering careers and learnt about ICE QUEST Scholarships, which he applied for and got. ICE QUEST Undergraduate Scholarships are awarded to the most outstanding candidates and can pay up to £8,000 over the course of study to students beginning a civil engineering degree at a university within the UK.

James now works as a Graduate Bridge Engineer at Arcadis Consulting in Birmingham where he enjoys being a part of a team and applying his problem-solving skills.

This autumn, he became the new ICE West Midlands Graduates and Students Committee Chair, where he leads a group of local ICE graduates, students, apprentices and technician volunteers, organising relevant events and courses.

James said: "It's important to get involved with ICE early. Whether you're looking for a scholarship or to build your professional network, it's important to explore all the possible ways of becoming a part of this organisation."

He added: "My top tip is to find out what civil engineering is. There are lots of avenues and specialties within this broad term. When studying, find out what you enjoy the most and pursue this."

Tomorrow's Engineers Week highlights to young people that engineering is a creative, problem solving, exciting career that improves the world around us. The campaign highlights the positive impact that engineers have and what it is like being an engineer in 2020.

Jo Barnett, ICE East and West Midlands Regional Director, said: "Tomorrow's Engineering Week is a perfect opportunity to promote civil engineering as a meaningful career.

"James' story shows that finding out what interests you early and seeking the right support, can really pay dividends throughout your studies and career. I hope James' story will not only help raise awareness of the civil engineering among the younger generation, but also inspire them to consider it as a fulfilling and rewarding career."

For further information about Tomorrow's Engineers Week click here.

A short video of James talking about Tomorrow's Engineers Week can be found here.