A testament to hard work and dedication, we’re celebrating success as we announce Matt Jones has achieved the HNC Civil Engineering qualification. By adding this expertise to the team, Matt is ready to help us design and deliver even greater projects.

Matt joined NMWTRA in 2023 as Technician Inspector within the Delivery and Inspections unit, with responsibility for General and Principal routine road inspections along the network.

His interest in Civil Engineering became evident whilst studying A-Level Product Design, when Matt gained hands-on experience in materials, manufacturing process, and design principles. The course also equipped him with transferable skills including planning, research, problem-solving, and communication skills.

The job itself is varied, and no two days are the same. Matt commented: “You never know what you will come across during a routine inspection, from potholes to obstructions, every day is different.”

A typical week will see Matt out on a driven patrol of the main carriageway inspecting the slip roads. Footways, drainage systems, safety and environmental barriers, and non-illuminated sign inspections are also carried out as part of the 12- or 24-month detailed program, any defects are reported via the IRIS asset management system.

If an obstruction is identified, Matt will work with the Control Room to deploy Traffic Officer’s to the scene to manage the flow of traffic so the obstruction can be safely removed.

The HNC covers core civil engineering areas, including construction technology, geotechnics, project management, surveying, construction science, materials, and mathematics.

On his recent achievement, Matt said: “The HNC allows me to now start the BEng Civil Engineering degree in September 2025.

I have recently passed the Barrier Inspection course, so I can inspect the barriers along the network, and longer term, I would like to progress within the Agency.”

Dorina Gerrard, Inspection Manager, said: “Over the past two years, Matt has shown consistent progression within the inspection team, excelling in his role and becoming an integral team member.

Matt is currently undertaking his engineering review assessment, which is a key step in his progression from inspection technician to inspection engineer. This marks an important milestone in his career development within the agency. The team and I wish him all the best as he embarks on his degree in Civil Engineering.”

Matt’s line manager Gerallt Edwards added: “Matthew has grown into a highly valued member of the team. His consistent dedication, strong work ethic, and willingness to support others have made a noticeable impact on both day-to-day operations and overall team morale.

He continued: Matthew approaches tasks with a positive attitude and a proactive mindset, often going above and beyond to ensure team goals are met. I look forward to continuing to work with Matthew and hope to see him progress within the inspection team for many years to come.”

Matt would like to thank Gerallt, Dorina and the Inspections unit for supporting him through his HNC.