Londonderry engineer hailed by peers

SOE Patron Sir Moir Lockhead, John Gallen and BES Chair Alan Fitzpatrick.

Originally from Galliagh but living in Newtownbreda in Belfast, John helps to run the Northern Irish branch of BES (Bureau of Engineer Surveyors).

He was named Volunteer of the Year by BES’s umbrella body SOE (Society of Operations Engineers).

John attended St Brigid’s College in Carnhill where he was encouraged to pursue his career path thanks to an inspirational teacher, Mr Gallagher, who taught him Engineering at GCSE level.

John said: “I joined the BES because I’m a believer in lifelong development as a way to reach your true potential, and the BES is the natural conduit for this. Engineer Surveyors work alone, so not only are CPD [continuing professional development] events important, but the professional relationships you build there are vital.”

SOE Chief Executive Peter Walsh personally thanked John for his commitment to BES: “The work done by volunteers like John in encouraging the sharing of ideas and excellence in the engineering industry has a far-reaching impact. At a time when there are fears for the continuation of technical skills and engineering within the UK, John is making a very real contribution to the future of his industry.”