Celebrating Engineering Excellence: The Inaugural Tylers and Bricklayers Construction Award

 

 

On 19 November 2025, leaders, engineers, and distinguished guests gathered at the historic Institution of Civil Engineers for the Corps of Royal Engineers’ annual Awards for Engineering Excellence. Among those guests in attendance were the Master of the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers, Alan Dodd, and Court Assistant Colonel (Retired) Ian Ogden, who joined members of the Corps and other sponsors in recognising another year of exceptional professional achievement. The ceremony showcased innovative engineering work, dedication to service, and the enduring partnerships that strengthen the Corps’ capabilities.

 

 

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of a new annual construction award sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers. Introduced to mark the 25th anniversary of the Company’s formal affiliation with the Corps of Royal Engineers, the award reflects a shared commitment to craftsmanship, technical excellence, and the advancement of construction skills within both military and civilian contexts. It is designed to honour the unit, sub-unit, or troop that has delivered the most outstanding construction project over the year.

 

 

For its inaugural presentation, the award was bestowed upon 21 Engineer Regiment in recognition of their exceptional work during Operation Shader in Erbil, Iraq. The Regiment undertook a series of challenging construction tasks across the Joint Operations Area, each requiring ingenuity, adaptability, and precise coordination. Their projects enhanced critical infrastructure, strengthened operational effectiveness, and demonstrated the pivotal role military engineers play in supporting deployed forces. The Regiment’s achievements exemplified not only technical proficiency but also resilience in demanding conditions.

 

 

Master Alan Dodd had the privilege of presenting the award, marking an important milestone in the Worshipful Company’s long-standing support of the Corps. By establishing this annual recognition, the Company aims to highlight the vital contribution that military engineers make to defence and to the broader built environment. The award reinforces the Company’s commitment to promoting excellence in construction, celebrating those whose work embodies the highest standards of skill and professionalism.

 

Accepting the award on behalf of 21 Engineer Regiment were Sergeant Wayne Henderson and Sapper Euan Bonas, whose attendance represented the collective effort behind the Regiment’s success. Construction projects of this scale and complexity depend on the dedication, teamwork, and expertise of soldiers across all ranks, and their presence reflected the pride shared throughout the unit.

 

 

The ceremony was hosted by, The Chief Royal Engineer, Lieutenant General Sir Christopher Tickell KBE, whose continued leadership supports the advancement and recognition of engineering excellence within the Corps. Throughout the evening, he emphasised the importance of innovation, collaboration, and professional development within the engineering community. The event celebrated not only individual and team accomplishments but also the enduring ethos of the Royal Engineers.

 

As the Corps looks toward future challenges, the introduction of the Tylers and Bricklayers Construction Award creates a significant new opportunity to recognise outstanding achievement. The exemplary work of 21 Engineer Regiment in this first year sets a benchmark for future recipients and underscores the essential role of military engineers around the world.

 

Ian Ogden - Court Assistant