Edward is the Chair of Sir Robert McAlpine and an Executive Partner in the Family business. He joined in 2000 having graduated from the University of Reading with a BSc Hons in Construction Management and Engineering. He is incredibly proud to be a Trustee of Construction Youth Trust, a role which he took on in 2017.

Hamza is a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (UK) and a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. With over 13 years’ experience working in external audit, he spent the last 12 years with KPMG (Nigeria and UK), moving to a management role within the audit division in 2016.

Hamza currently works as an Audit Quality Inspector with the UK’s Financial Reporting Council.

Anthony has over 20 years’ Local Authority Building Control experience. As a Fellow member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the Chartered Association of Building Engineers, mentoring the younger generation from a diverse range of backgrounds into the built environment is a cause close to his heart.

Anthony’s roles as President of both the Local Authority Building Control (LABC) and the London District Surveyors Association (LDSA) have enabled him to fundraise in aid of CYT.

Assad is a solicitor specialising in Projects and Construction and a partner at the specialist real estate law firm, Trowers and Hamlins. He negotiates and drafts building and engineering contracts and development agreements for commercial clients and public sector bodies.

Assad has particular experience of advising on education sector projects and integrating employment, skills, and social value requirements into construction project and asset management procurements.

Barbara brings extensive experience in the construction sector, with a passion for empowering young people to build rewarding careers. Joining Mace as a graduate civil engineer, her career has taken her all over the world, delivering high profile and landmark projects, as well as running and growing businesses. She’s a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, Institute of Civil Engineers and Association of Project Management. Barbara is committed to promoting diversity and opportunity within the industry, inspiring and supporting the next generation.

Holly joined Keltbray in 2007 having spent her early career as an Explosives Engineer & Project Manager on major enabling works and decommissioning projects. Going on to lead the learning and development of Keltbray and its employees working on our growth strategy and implementation as its Skills and Communities Director. Her experience in social sustainability and broad knowledge and experience of practical operations led to her promotion to Group Sustainability Director in early 2021 and a further widening of her role to Group Assurance Director in 2024.

In addition to Holly’s role at Keltbray she is a Trustee of the Construction Industry Training Board and Chair of the Industry Funding Committee who are responsible for the effective and impactful allocation of circa £200m per annum of funds.

Having spent 8 years as London Chair and committee member, she was elected President of the National Federation of Demolition Contractors and subsequently received Honorary Life Vice President and Award for Outstanding Contribution to the enabling works sector.

Holly actively promotes the need to widen the talent pool by embracing diversity in the industry, and she tirelessly campaigns for continuous improvement of industry standards.

Julie White is the managing director of D-Drill & Sawing – which is a specialist diamond drilling, concrete sawing and controlled demolition business that has branches across the UK.

Julie, a previous winner of the national Businesswoman of the Year title, has also recently joined the Government’s new Construction Skills Mission Board, which is developing and delivering a construction workforce action plan to recruit a target of 100,000 new construction workers each year until 2029.

It follows many years of Julie being a campaigner and advocate for apprenticeships within the industry, including meeting with Ministers, Prime Ministers and countless media interviews on the topic. She sat on the PM’s Business Council, the SME Council for the Department of Business & Trade and the CITB’s board in England.

Julie is also the former Chair of Build UK – a position she held for two years – after also stepping down from the organisation’s Board following a decade of service.

Julie is a former Chairman for ‘The Drilling and Sawing Association’ – where she was the first woman to hold the position – and is past President of the International Association of Concrete Drillers & Sawers (IACDS).

She is also a previous winner of the Vitalise Businesswoman of the Year – following in the footsteps of Karren Brady, as well as Hilary Devey of BBC Dragons’ Den.

Having started her career as a Quantity Surveyor, Katy is now President and CEO at leading development and construction business Skanska UK. She was the 2013 Women in the City Woman of Achievement and 2015 BIFM Leader of the Year.

Katy is passionate about equality, diversity, inclusion and building for a better society.

As Operations Director for AECOM’s Transportation Business, Manjinder (Jin) is sector agnostic and works across all transportation end markets of Road, Rail, Aviation and Ports.

A Chartered Civil Engineer, Jin is passionate about supporting and mentoring our future generations. As Business Sponsor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at AECOM, he is committed to making a real difference by helping the future talent for our industry to feel empowered and inspired to grow.

Mathew has worked in the construction industry for over 35 years, He is the group CEO and owner of Echelon Consultancy Group, a leading asset management and procurement consultancy working primarily in the public and private housing sectors. He also owns Pretium Frameworks Limited, a framework management company that is supporting numerous procurement hubs across the UK. Mathew is passionate about encouraging the next generation to choose a career in construction.

Mathew is also a Trustee for Herts Young Homeless.

Neal is an experienced construction law specialist, with over 35 years’ experience in the construction industry. Neal has prior charitable experience helping disadvantaged young people navigate into the world of work and is keen to deploy that experience to help in his own industry with CYT.

Patricia sits on the Turner & Townsend Executive Committee and is the organisation’s UK Managing Director. A Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, she has an MSc in Construction Law and Arbitration and a Diploma in Company Direction from the Institute of Directors.

Patricia is passionate about driving social mobility and drives Turner & Townsend’s corporate responsibility agenda in the UK and the Diversity & Inclusion agenda globally. The work with CYT is at the heart of that.

Since 2017, Russell Taylor has been the Head Teacher at Robert Clack School in Dagenham, which he formerly attended as a pupil. He gained a first-class degree in economics at Queen Mary and trained as a teacher at the Institute of Education. He joined the staff at Robert Clack in 2002 with the intention of making a difference to the lives of the young people in the borough where he grew up.

Victoria is Chief Executive at Perfect Circle, a property, construction and infrastructure consultancy. She has a deep understanding of the fiscal challenges in the public sector and the opportunities that can be created to secure value-for-money and social impact.

Victoria is committed to inspiring the next generation, particularly women, into the construction and infrastructure industry. As a judge for a number of industry awards, she is able to showcase CYT’s work in social mobility across the industry.

Having started out working life as a Civil Engineer herself, Carol is deeply committed to the Trust’s mission of helping more young people access the fantastic opportunities construction has to offer, particularly young people facing significant barriers into work and those groups who have traditionally been under-represented in the industry. Carol sees her role as Chief Executive as holding on to the ‘big picture’ while keeping a constant eye on the detail of day-to-day delivery.

Carol’s favourite building is the London Aquatics Centre.

Amanda joins us with experience from the public, corporate and charity sector. She has a genuine passion for developing and supporting people and organisations to reach their full potential with particular expertise and knowledge in the area of supporting people with barriers to employment.

Her favourite building is the Royal Albert Hall.

Before joining the Trust, Mark worked for Haringey Mencap from 2005, where he campaigned and advocated for adults with learning disabilities for over 10 years. Upon leaving, Mark became a Trustee.

Mark joined CYT in 2016 and undertakes HR, Safeguarding and Governance support, Manages the Trust’s payroll, staff training and multiple financial functions including leading on the Trust’s annual audit and Companies House and Charity Commission obligations.

Mark’s favourite buildings are Anfield, Liverpool and Český Krumlov Castle, Czech Republic.

Emma joined the Trust after completing her an MA in Human Rights at University College London. She is passionate about promoting access to education and equal opportunities for all.

Emma’s favourite building is the Vancouver Convention Centre in British Columbia, Canada.

Conor joined the trust after completing a degree in Chemistry at the University of Nottingham. He had previously worked as a CAD technician at a small engineering firm, and he now helps us quantify the effect we have on the young people that we interact with.

Conor’s favourite building is Harlech Castle, Wales.

Ellie studied Education with Psychology at the University of Bath where she developed an interest working with young people. During her placement year, she worked for an educational charity and a school which influenced her desire to go into youth work. She is looking forward to helping young people reach their full potential and tackle social mobility through working at the Trust.

Ellie’s favourite building is the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, Italy.

Jared completed his MSc in Behaviour Change at UCL and BSc in Sociology at the National University of Singapore. He has previously worked as a Research Assistant at the Centre for Evidence and Implementation and an Education Analyst at the National Institute of Education, Singapore. He is passionate about empowering others through data-driven insights informed by Behavioural Science, Implementation Science and Sociological research.

Jared’s favourite building is Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain.

Rokas graduated with a BA in Philosophy of Science from the University of Cambridge. CYT’s mission to help break social barriers and have a part in promoting social mobility resonates deeply with him. Having previously been a mentor helping students with university applications, he hopes to continue having a positive impact with the youth work he does at CYT.

Rokas’ favourite building is The Inside-Out Building, London.

Ross studied economic inequality and its relationship to sectoral employment in-depth at the University of Cambridge and The London School of Economics and Political Science. He has worked previously in legal aid, as a tutor, and a campaigner for the living wage. CYT’s commitment to helping young people overcome structural inequalities is something he is deeply aligned with.

Ross’s favourite building is the Senate House Library, London.

Pearl is an experienced teacher who has previously worked in the FE sector delivering construction courses and apprenticeship frameworks. Pearl is passionate about raising young people’s aspirations and awareness of careers within the construction industry.

Pearl’s favourite building is Battersea Power Station, London.

Amisha completed her degree in BSc Geography at the University of Bristol. Alongside studying, she has spent 7 years teaching young people the skill of touch typing, with a particular focus on supporting learners with SEND, specialising in dyslexia and dyspraxia. This experience has fuelled her passion for creating inclusive learning environments where every young person can thrive, regardless of their background. She is excited to empower young people and help them reach their full potential.

Her favourite building is the Esplanade theatre, Singapore.

Brianna is currently completing a Corporate Social Responsibility Apprenticeship, and is eager to bring her knowledge and experience working in the built environment to her role at the Trust. Brianna wanted to work for Construction Youth Trust because she witnessed, first-hand, the huge positive impact they have amongst young people, having initially taken part in one of their programmes as a participant herself. She now wants to help other young people and be part of the change the programme brought to her life.

Beth graduated from the University of Exeter with a BA in Geography, where she developed a strong interest in social mobility and the importance of giving people the opportunities, confidence, and agency to shape their own futures. Alongside her studies, she has volunteered with a range of organisations, particularly charities focused on equal access to opportunities for young people. Beth is passionate about supporting young people to realise their potential and is excited to continue the Trust’s work, helping them explore careers in the built environment and take positive steps towards their future.

Beth’s favourite building is the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

Delcy has joined us with an undergraduate degree in Sociology and Criminology (BSc Hons). During her studies, she completed a work-placement at a youth organisation, supporting young people. She later enrolled in a community research programme to further develop her analytical skills and went on to intern at a women-and-girls-only charity. This solidified her passion for a career in the charity/youth sector, helping people achieve their full potential and contribute towards a positive social change.

Favourite building is Battersea Power Station, London.

Dillan graduated from the University of Sheffield with a degree in Politics and Sociology. During his time between Sheffield and Birmingham, Dillan’s work in youth projects and volunteering groups engaged his passion for social mobility amongst the younger generation. It were these experiences that led to Dillan’s commitment to supporting young people experiencing barriers to their professional development, aligning well with CYT’s mission.

Dillan’s favourite building is the Arts Tower in Sheffield.

Ellie graduated from the University of Exeter with a BA in Liberal Arts. Through volunteering for various non-profits, she developed a passion for social mobility and helping young people overcome barriers, which is what drew her to the Trust.

Ellie’s favourite building is the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

In her previous roles, Emily has worked both in the construction industry, for an office design and fitout company, and with children and young people in a variety of different settings. She finds it very rewarding knowing her work is ultimately helping and supporting young people and making a difference in their lives.

Emily’s favourite building is The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy.

Emily is a recent graduate from Cardiff University, where she studied Politics and Philosophy and completed an integrated placement year in the House of Commons. From her time in school, Emily actively sought opportunities to promote social mobility, volunteering with young people as both a Well-being and English Mentor. Drawing on her own personal experiences, she is passionate about creating opportunities for young people and widening access to success. Emily sees her role at Construction Youth Trust as a natural next step in continuing this commitment.

Emily’s favourite building is: Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.

Esmee first joined CYT during her year in industry and is now returning after graduating from the University of Bath with a degree in International Development with Economics. During her internship at CYT, she developed a strong passion for empowering young people to succeed. Esmee is excited to use her skills and enthusiasm to support young people as they transition into the professional world.

Esmee’s favourite building is the Alcazaba in Malaga.

After attending Arts Ed drama school, Felix spent time as an actor before gaining experience in community volunteering, where he developed a strong passion for the non-profit sector as well as working with young people. Alongside this work, he is studying his MSc in Psychology at the University of Exeter, with a particular interest in children and young people’s mental health and development. Felix is driven by the Trust’s work with young people experiencing significant barriers, as well as those that are largely underrepresented within the construction industry.

Felix’s favourite building is Trellick Tower, London.

Hannah completed her degree in English Language at Aston university, and whilst working part-time in schools during her studies discovered her passion for working with young people. Since graduating Hannah has worked as an au pair in Spain and English teacher in China. Hannah is looking forward to helping empower young people to pursue their career goals in construction.

Hannah’s favourite building is the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol.

Katie arrived at the Trust enthusiastic to help young people find their passion and achieve their full potential within the construction and built environment industry. She joined the Trust after completing a history degree at UCL, bringing an eye for questioning and learning new things with her. Throughout her degree, she volunteered with vulnerable young people and her enjoyment and interest in facilitating their access to meaningful careers inspired her to pursue a career in the sector.

Katie’s favourite building is the Art of Tea café in Manchester.

Maya holds a BA in History and Politics from the University of Birmingham. She joined the Trust after completing an internship at a women’s charity in South London – where she affirmed her desire to work in a role that supports young people to achieve their full potential. She is excited to be a part of a charity that is championing social mobility and promoting equality in the construction industry.

Maya’s favourite building is the Palazzo Mora in Venice, Italy.

Michelle joined the Trust with a breadth of experience working with young people in schools, volunteering and working in the charity sector. With a BA (Hons) in Education from Brighton University, she is passionate about making a difference to the lives of young people. Michelle is looking forward to helping young people discover more about the construction world.

Michelle’s favourite building is Buckingham Palace, London.

Naomi holds a BA from Coventry University and is an experienced teacher who has previously taught in schools in the UK and abroad. She brings valuable experience to the team and is absolutely passionate about education.

Naomi’s favourite building is Prague Castle, Czech Republic.

Paige joins us with a joint honour degree from the University of Nottingham in American and Canadian Studies with English, where she spent time volunteering with young people. Following this, she spent time working with SEN children and children from a more disadvantaged background. This solidified her understanding of how important it is to help breakdown barriers not only in education but also within the working world.

Paige’s favourite building is Basílica de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona.

As she was completing her Bsc Business Management degree at City, University of London, Paris spent multiple years as a Student Ambassador, promoting higher education at different careers fairs across London. This work with young people allowed her to move into an Assistant Producer internship at a music charity where she encouraged young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to take a step into the creative industry through open mic nights and networking workshops. Wanting to stay in the charity sector, Paris found Construction Youth Trust and strongly believes in their goal of bringing work opportunities to young people, regardless of circumstance. She hopes to continue to uplift and support young people to achieve their full potential.

Paris’ favourite building is the Mi6 Headquarters in Vauxhall, London.

Suvetha is a recent MSc International Sustainable Development graduate from Loughborough University. During her time at university, she had the opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of NGO and charity-led intervention on local communities, strengthening her commitment to creating meaningful change. Throughout her time at university, she also tutored primary aged students in Maths and English, inspiring her to pursue a career in youth work and social mobility. She is excited to empower young people to fulfil their potential through her work at Construction Youth Trust.

Suvetha’s favourite building is Casa Batlló in Barcelona.

Taschan has over 10 year’s experience working in the Education, Training and Employment sector and specialises in supporting young people from disadvantaged and marginalised backgrounds with career pathways. She creates new partnership programmes to address diversifying the workforce in corporate industries and to address equality of opportunity.

Favourite Building: Hibbert House in Jamaica

Yumna graduated with an LLB (Hons) in Law from Brunel University London. Through volunteering with MIND, Sufra NW London and Salusbury World, she developed a passion for promoting inclusion and supporting young people to overcome barriers to opportunity. These experiences inspired her to join the Construction Youth Trust, where she can help create meaningful pathways for young people to succeed.

Yumna’s favourite building is the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar.

Wendy brings a lifetime of experience working as a carpenter in the construction industry and teaching. Her passion is to inspire and inform the next generation whilst rejecting the misconception that the sector is for people lacking in academic aptitude.

Wendy’s favourite building is the Chrysler Building, New York.

Aleksandra has joined the Trust after completing her MA at King’s College London in 2021. She strongly believes in Construction Youth Trust’s mission of breaking down the barriers faced by young people on their path to employment, and is excited to help make a difference in young people’s lives through her work at the Trust.

Aleksandra’s favourite building is The Fenchurch Building at 20 Fenchurch Street, London.

Asha joined Construction Youth Trust after finishing her undergraduate degree and completing a short internship with a smaller charity. She is excited to use this experience to contribute the invaluable work the trust does to help young people access education, employment training.

Asha’s favourite building is Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Portugal.

Ben joined the Trust after graduating the University of Kent with a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing. Having volunteered at a local library for many years, he has always felt passionate that young people should have a space to learn and thrive. Ben was instantly attracted to the Trust’s mission to help young people reach their full potential, no matter what barriers they face.

Ben’s favourite building is the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Paris.

Originally from Northumberland, Michael moved to join the Trust after previously working in a second-hand bookshop and completing a MA in Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia. Michael was impressed by the Trust’s mission to increase opportunities for those who needed them most as it aligned with his personal belief in the responsibility to tackle issues of inequality and social mobility. He’s excited to work with young people to help them fulfil their aspirations.

Michael’s favourite building is St James Park Stadium, Newcastle.

After completing his undergraduate degree in BSc Geography, Rowan worked in the renewable energy sector and then property investment consultancy before shifting his career toward charity and social mobility. He is strongly motivated by the Trust’s mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and advance social mobility for underrepresented groups. This aligns closely with his dissertation, which examined class and racial divides in Western urban environments and the ways they limit mobility.

Rowan’s favourite building is Saint Catherine’s Monastery in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt.

Sarah started her career as a civil engineer and thoroughly enjoyed her years working in the construction industry. She later moved into marketing, market research and PR, and is now delighted to be able to combine her work experiences to help young people access inspiring career opportunities that will enhance their futures.

Sarah’s favourite building is Copenhill power plant, Denmark.