A young bricklayer from Hull who overcame adversity and being diagnosed with autism, to become a skilled construction site operative with a successful career, has won a prestigious award in recognition of his newfound mentoring skills.
Charlie Walsh, who works at Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter, has been named Mentor of the Year at this year’s G4C Yorkshire and Humber Constructing Excellence Awards. The awards recognise incredibly talented individuals in their commitment to the construction industry, as well as showcasing companies that support, mentor and shape people’s professional development.
Charlie was diagnosed with autism at three years old and attended Northcott Special School for 11 years, before enrolling on a construction course at Hull College when he was 16 and choosing bricklaying as his chosen vocation. He completed level one and two qualifications at Hull College before moving to Bishop Burton College in East Yorkshire to complete his level three qualification.
During his studies, Charlie secured work experience at Hobson & Porter and the company subsequently offered him a position as a bricklaying apprentice. The 27-year-old is now a site operative and has worked on a wide range of high-profile construction projects in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire in recent years.
Charlie now regularly shares his inspiring story in motivational talks to pupils at special educational needs schools who face similar challenges to him in his younger years. His talks are hugely popular with audience members always approaching him afterwards to talk more and ask questions.
Charlie said: “School was difficult for me. I was shy and struggled to communicate with others and faced a lot of challenges, but when I joined Hull College, my confidence grew and I finally felt like me, which was the best feeling. Then, securing a role at Hobson & Porter and having the opportunity to start building a career was another milestone that I’ve relished.
“Talking to school pupils who are in a similar position now to where I was a few years ago, is something I really enjoy. There are lots of opportunities for them and my message is that it’s good to try new things. If you like it, stick with it; if you don’t, try something else and don’t worry about winning or losing, passing or failing. You can only do your best and that’s what matters.
“Receiving this award for my efforts is brilliant and I’m very proud of it. I love having a positive impact on others by sharing my own stories and continuing to speak in schools, as well as inspiring young people, is something that I definitely want to continue doing.”
Jacquie Blades, human resources director from Hobson & Porter, said: “I remember first meeting Charlie when he came to us on work experience in 2016. It was immediately apparent that he was dedicated, had a great work ethic and would be an asset to our business, so we were only too happy to offer him an apprenticeship and help him forge a career. He quickly became a well-respected member of our team, who is hugely popular with his colleagues, our clients and everyone who meets him.
“There’s no doubt Charlie thoroughly deserves this award. He is a mentor like no other, with an inspiring and compelling story to share. His mentorship doesn’t follow the typical format of one-to-one advice, guidance and knowledge sharing. Instead, Charlie’s reach and impact goes far beyond this.
“He’s now committed to giving back to both the construction industry and young people and children facing similar challenges to him. He inspires young people to embrace their individuality and flourish, as well as highlighting how rewarding a career in construction is. His audiences always take inspiration from his story and learn from his experiences. Charlie’s potential knows no bounds and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for him.”
This is the latest award Charlie has received in recent years. In 2016 he was shortlisted for ‘Young Builder of the Year’ by Youthbuild and later commended for this achievement at The House of Commons in London. During his time at Hull College, he was also named ‘Most Outstanding Student on a Full-Time Level 1 Bricklaying Course’ and he scooped ‘The Walter Dickinson Memorial Award’, presented to the most outstanding student overall.