A FORMER Ysgol Glan Clwyd pupil has been welcomed into the oldest professional engineering association in the world.

Thomas Brettell, from Rhyl, has been awarded membership of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), which was founded in 1818.

Mr Brettell, who currently works as assistant geotechnical engineer for Jacobs, said: "From a young age, I always enjoyed the challenge of dismantling objects and trying to understand how they function before attempting to rebuild them.

"I think it was in my nature to become an engineer, and it was at university where I realised that my strengths were tailored towards civil engineering."

After sixth form in St Asaph, Mr Brettell studied engineering at Cardiff University and then Birmingham University.

He was presented his certificate by ICE President Andrew Wyllie at a special ceremony held at ICE’s headquarters in Westminster, London.

ICE represents over 92,000 civil engineers and technicians across the world who design, build and maintain transport, water, energy, waste and flood infrastructure. Thomas, who has met all the requirements of the ICE’s Chartered Professional Review, is now entitled to adopt the Institution’s protected title of ‘Chartered Civil Engineer’.

Keith Jones, ICE Wales Cymru regional director, commented: “Achieving Chartered civil engineer status is a significant personal and career achievement and we are proud to welcome Thomas as a member of ICE.

"He joins a community of professionals who are committed to shaping, improving and protecting the infrastructure on which we all depend. ICE congratulates Thomas on his success and looks forward to supporting him throughout his career.”