Former footballer has world at his feet – kicks off a new career in Civil Engineering

Posted on the : 8th September 2011

promising young footballer, who was on the books of Middlesbrough FC, has turned his back on the glitz and glamour of a life in the beautiful game to carve out a new career in civil engineering at Able UK on Teesside.

Two years ago Jonny Harris, 20, charted out a new career path. Within a short space of time he had secured employment at ABLE UK‟s headquarters at Billingham Reach and enrolled on a Civil Engineering Modern Apprenticeship course sponsored by the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC).

He has shown so much promise that he has just been named the NECC Engineering Apprentice of the Year.

Jonny, who lives in Eaglescliffe, is now an integral part of Able UK‟s CAD (Computer Aided Design) team and Richard Cram the Company‟s Design Director, has praised his abilities:
“Jonny is a very welcome addition to our team and is making a substantial contribution to a variety of projects.

“Because of the high standard of training he received he was able to hit the ground running and play a full part in several schemes.”
Jonny himself is delighted with his chosen new career:

“Every kid wants to be a footballer but the reality of life is that not very many can make it. So I am absolutely delighted to be working for a leading company like ABLE where I can put into practice the things I have learned.

“The course gave me a good grounding in fundamental skills while also giving me a really interesting career path that I can focus on. I cannot imagine working for a more dynamic and committed Teesside business”
Commented Peter Stephenson, Able‟s founder and Executive Chairman:

“Jonny is a fantastic example to all young people contemplating their future, and we have been delighted to provide this opportunity.

“Investment in people is just as important as investment in bricks and mortar and Jonny now progresses on to his HNC. He is an excellent role model for young people today”.

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