The shortlist for the 2026 Generation for Change (Constructing Excellence) North East and Tees Valley Awards has been announced, recognising emerging construction professionals and organisations investing in workforce development across the region.
The awards, supported by headline sponsor Caddick Construction, will take place on 1 May 2026 at the Hilton NewcastleGateshead, bringing together contractors, consultants and industry bodies to celebrate early-career achievement in construction.
The initiative sits under Constructing Excellence and focuses on developing young professionals and improving industry performance through skills, training and leadership development.
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Future Leader shortlist announced
A key category, the G4C Future Leader Award, highlights individuals identified as showing strong leadership potential early in their careers.
This year’s shortlisted candidates are:
- Alanis Burgess (P+HS Architects)
- Hannah McRae (Turner & Townsend)
- Hollie Laws (Willmott Dixon Construction)
- Jack Ibbetson (Wates Construction)
- Louis Maw (Gleeds)
- Louise Gifford (Link MEP)
- Morteza Iranian (Turner & Townsend)
- Niamh Kinnaird (Robertson CE)
The category is sponsored by Caddick Construction.
Employer investment in training and development recognised
The Commitment to Employee and Training Development category highlights organisations investing in skills pathways, mentorship and workforce progression.
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Shortlisted organisations include Applebridge Family, Caddick Construction and Kier Group.
The category is sponsored by Northumbrian Water Group and focuses on employer-led approaches to developing construction talent and improving retention.
Constructing Excellence North East said the shortlist reflects the strength of regional talent pipelines and employer commitment to training.
Catriona Lingwood, Chief Executive of Constructing Excellence North East, said: “It’s fantastic to see such a strong shortlist this year, across all categories. The calibre of finalists reflects the strength of our sector and we look forward to celebrating their achievements at the awards.
A huge thank you to all of our sponsors and we wish everyone nominated the very best of luck on the night. A special thank you to our judges who found it exceptionally tough deciding the shortlist never mind the actual winners, showcasing the exceptional talent coming through across our region.”
Wider category recognition
Other categories at the awards include Trade Apprentice of the Year, Technical Apprentice of the Year, Student of the Year, Trainee of the Year, New Professional of the Year and Mentor of the Year.
Winners will be announced at the ceremony in NewcastleGateshead, where industry leaders will gather to recognise achievement in skills development, leadership and construction excellence across the North East and Tees Valley.
