Huge congratulations to J Tomlinson trainee quantity surveyor Joe Gent who has won the Rising Star Award at the East Midlands fbe Awards 2017.

Joe, 24, who joined us in 2012 as a mechanical and electrical engineering apprentice, triumphed at the awards ceremony held at the City Rooms in Leicester.

Last year he was a finalist in the category, but this year he went one better and took top slot in the award, which highlights and rewards individuals working within the construction sector in Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire or Nottinghamshire, who are under 30 years of age and who have shone in their field.

“Joe is a definite star within the J Tomlinson team, and it’s wonderful to see this recognised more widely,” said Tony O’Toole, J Tomlinson’s Managing Director – Mechanical and Electrical.

“We were thrilled when he was shortlisted in the East Midlands fbe Awards last year, based on his hard work, commitment and achievements, but we were doubly proud when he was named as a finalist once again this year – taking into account the continued hard work and development that he has subsequently shown. Now he has won the award, which is very well deserved and a reflection of his tenacity.

“As a company, J Tomlinson is very committed to training our workforce, improving our team and individual performances, and giving our employees the opportunity to achieve professional and personal growth. Joe joined us after leaving school and is the perfect example of someone who has grasped the opportunities given to him and has achieved outstanding results. Many congratulations to him.”

Joe is currently in his final year of his HNC Electrical and Electronic Engineering course and is now a trainee M&E quantity surveyor at J Tomlinson, based at head office in Beeston near Nottingham.

Pictured, left to right, Eddie Mewies, regional chairman of the East Midlands fbe, Joe Gent, a trainee M&E quantity surveyor at J Tomlinson, Mark Taylor, tax director at award sponsor Duncan & Toplis, and Peter Wheeler, former England international rugby player and ex-Leicester Tiger player.