People Powered Profile: Craig Burdis

A Project Manager in the UK energy sector shares insights into building construction engineering careers UK-wide through apprenticeships, qualifications, and hands-on experience.

The discussion highlights Energy Recovery Facility projects, skills shortages, and the importance of blended technical and practical expertise. It also explores industry challenges, career progression, and the role of mentorship in long-term success.

In the first of our People Powered Profile series, Kevin Over, Commercial Director at Astute, caught up with Craig Burdis, Project Manager at Encyclis, to discuss his path into construction engineering careers UK-wide, his project experience, and insights into the UK energy sector.

Career Journey Into Construction Engineering Careers UK

Can you tell us a bit about your engineering career?

“I started my career with a modern apprenticeship in civil engineering, under the tutelage of two brilliant Chartered Engineers who invested a lot of time and effort into my development.

“In those early years, I was fortunate enough to be involved in a broad range of activities in the construction industry, taking projects from feasibility, through design, procurement, and construction, which naturally led to me becoming a Project Manager.

“After completing a Diploma in Construction Management, I followed this up with a Master’s degree in Project Management and became a Chartered Construction Manager in 2015.”

Energy Sector Project Experience

And what are some of the projects you’ve been involved in?

“For the last dozen or so years I have worked in the energy sector, managing the construction of several energy recovery facilities.

“The latest one being Newhurst ERF, a 43MW plant in Leicestershire.

“This project was a great example of how collaboration and communication play a key part in achieving successful outcomes.”

Industry Challenges and Skills Demand in Construction Engineering Careers UK

What are some of the biggest challenges the industry is facing?

“The obvious challenges over the last couple of years have been the impact to the supply of labour and materials caused by Covid and Brexit.

“Looking to the future, attracting enough young people into the industry, across all trades and professions, is going to be really difficult.” A challenge echoed by the Construction Leadership Council, which has repeatedly flagged skills shortages as one of the sector’s most pressing long-term risks.

And what are some of the skillsets you’re seeing high demand for in the power sector?

“There has always been a high demand for those who have a blend of trades experience and ability combined with a knowledge and understanding of engineering principles, as they are the people best equipped to deal with the multi-faceted issues encountered on construction sites.”

Life in Construction and Energy

What do you enjoy most about working in the industry?

“Working in the construction industry can be very satisfying, as the output of your labour is very tangible.

“Also, even though technology now plays a bigger part than ever, construction is still a people business.

“It relies on people to get the job built, and the industry is full of some amazing characters!”

Career Advice for Construction Engineering Careers UK-Wide

What advice would you give your younger self as you embarked upon your engineering career?

“Buy shares in Apple!

“I’ve been lucky to have some amazing mentors over the years, who have not only given me fantastic advice but acted as great role models that I’ve tried to emulate.

“I suppose the advice I’d give my younger self would be, ‘Be patient – you’re not expected to know everything right from the off.’

“Even 20+ years into my engineering career, I’m still learning every day.”

If you’re looking to build construction engineering careers UK-wide within the power and energy sector, explore our latest energy job opportunities or learn more about our power sector recruitment services. Craig’s route from apprenticeship to Chartered Construction Manager reflects a path we cover in more depth in our guide to apprenticeship recruitment myths.

About the Author

Kevin Over joined Astute in 2013 and progressed to Head of Power, specialising in permanent and contract recruitment across development, construction, and operations within the energy sector, including EPC and O&M environments. In 2025 he was made Commercial Director of the business.