The founder of a Cumbrian civil engineering firm has appointed the mentor who helped launch his career to lead several major projects across the UK.
John Bridge supported Kieron Peacock and two other trainees as they entered the industry in 2005 at Cumbrian Industrials.
Fast forward nearly two decades, and Kieron – who founded Peacock Precision Services in 2018 – has now brought John on board as lead engineer.
Kieron said: “Learning my trade as a fresh-faced teenager just out of school, I couldn’t have hit it any better having somebody as trusting, kind and supportive as John as my experienced mentor.
“He was somebody we all looked up to as an engineer who knew so much about the industry, and he put faith in me and the other trainees to work independently and develop our skills on some major projects.
“Having grown Peacock Precision, it was clear we needed somebody who knew the industry inside and out, and I never hesitated in asking John if he would ensure every project we complete is to the highest possible standards.
“As ever, John has delivered and I’m so grateful to be working with him again. It’s great to see him provide inspiration to the younger members of our team by leading by example, just as he did all those years ago when I was starting out.”
John, 54, has built up almost 40 years of experience in civil engineering, working on a range of projects across the UK. Originally from Northamptonshire, he moved to Cumbria in 1994 to be closer to his retired parents and has remained in the North West ever since.
At Cumbrian Industrials the two worked closely for five years until John moved on to new opportunities.
A chance meeting in Penrith five years ago reconnected them.
John said: “As part of my role at Cumbrian Industrials, I was asked to manage three trainees and Kieron was one of them. I knew straight away that he would achieve great things in the industry as he showed great enthusiasm to learn, had an excellent work ethic and a natural talent.
“I remember the first job he worked with me on was widening the Portrack Roundabout in Teesside from two lanes to four, so it was a big job, but Kieron excelled and hit the ground running.
“It’s no surprise to me to see he has made a success out of starting his own business, and it’s great to be working with him again.”
