NTU student wins 'Most Promising' prize at CECA Southern awards
Viktorija Pucinska won the award for the contribution she has made working in the water industry with Barhale Ltd.
By Jon Duckworth | Published on 3 July 2025
Categories: Current students; School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment;
The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Southern Awards are presented annually to recognise exceptional performance, and NTU student Viktorija was chosen as winner of the Most Promising Apprentice Award (Level 4-7). Viktorija is currently undertaking her Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering.
She impressed the judges for her work encouraging women and young people to join the civil engineering construction industry, and recently completed a scholarship in India to broaden her experience and stimulate interest in underrepresented groups.
Alan Cox, CECA Southern Chair, commented: “Viktorija’s dedication and leadership make her a standout professional with a great future ahead of her and we hope she will inspire many more women and young people to join our great industry."
Speaking about the award, Viktorija said: "I’m incredibly proud and grateful to receive this recognition. Winning this award means so much to me—not just as a civil engineering apprentice, but as someone who truly loves what they do.
"Being an apprentice isn’t only about learning at university or gaining experience at work. It’s also about thinking differently, spotting gaps, and bringing new ideas forward. It’s about inspiring other students, challenging lecturers and senior engineers when change is needed. Every challenge is a chance to grow and find the best solution."
Viktorija was presented with her award at the CECA Southern annual lunch and awards event held at The Brewery, London on Friday 27 June 2025, which was attended by over 400 people working in the industry. As winner of Most Promising Apprentice Award (Level 4-7), sponsored by BAM, Viktorija received an inscribed trophy and cheque for £500.
"This journey has shaped who I am," she said. "As an engineer, a woman, and a person. It’s not just a job; it’s a lifestyle. I’m passionate about promoting mental health, supporting diversity, and showing young people how exciting and meaningful civil engineering can be. Apprenticeships also bring amazing opportunities to build local and global connections - and I’m excited to keep growing and giving back to this industry."