Investing in the Next Generation: Work Experience Success

At O’Neill & Brennan UK, we're passionate about creating opportunities that help people take their first steps into the construction industry. 

We're delighted to share a recent success story from the IHP Royal Shrewsbury Hospital project (Vinci and Sir Robert McAlpine joint venture). Through the on-site Community Skills Centre, James Bowers was given the opportunity to undertake a week's work experience with Sergiu Constantin Florea and his team, starting on 1st June 2026. 

What started as a one-week placement quickly demonstrated James's potential. Throughout the week, James showed enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to get stuck in - qualities that never go unnoticed on site. As a result, James has now secured a paid position as a General Operative, initially covering a three-week period of annual leave, with the exciting prospect of the role becoming permanent in the future. 

Feedback from the team has been overwhelmingly positive, with Sergiu describing James as a great addition to the team and someone they would be keen to retain once a permanent opportunity becomes available. 

Stories like this demonstrate the value of work experience programmes, community partnerships, and providing people with a chance to showcase their skills. 

Congratulations, James - we wish you every success in your construction career and look forward to seeing your journey continue.