TWO local civil engineers have been awarded Fellowships of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).

Dr Stephen Thomas is managing director of OGI Groundwater Specialists in Durham, and Richard McGuckin is head of technical services with Stockton Borough Council. Each received their Fellowships from ICE president Geoff French at an admission ceremony at ICE headquarters in Westminster.

Penny Marshall, North East regional director, said: “Gaining ICE Fellowship is an exceptional achievement and I warmly congratulate Stephen and Richard on joining an elite group of civil engineers. This highly-respected accolade recognises a significant contribution to the civil engineering profession and seniority in the industry.”

Dr Thomas has acquired wide national and international experience in the field of geotechnical and groundwater engineering. He has been involved in a number of significant civil engineering projects including London Millennium Bridge, the New Southern General Hospital, Glasgow, and many flood relief schemes throughout the UK. One particular highlight was working for the Navaho Indians in New Mexico, protecting their water and the Jemez River.

Mr McGuckin's career highlight to date was as lead designer and project manager on the South Stockton Link Road which involved constructing what was then the world's longest corrugated steel tunnel which was lifted into place over a live railway line in another world first.

He said “From an early age I was always interested in building things and making a contribution to society. The work of the Civil Engineer touches the lives of everyone in our community on a daily basis, from the roads, airports and railways we use, to the houses and grand buildings and facilities that we adore – all of them were influenced and designed by today’s and yesterday’s civil engineers. Our young people can play an exciting role in becoming the engineers of tomorrow.”