Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week: Launching Our Early Careers ‘NextGen4um’ Forum
To mark National Apprenticeship Week, we’re proud to share the launch of NextGen4um – our new Early Careers forum designed to bring together apprentices and early career professionals from across 4way. The aim is simple: create a supportive space to connect, share experiences, and grow together.
Our first in-person session set the tone for what we hope this forum will become. We began the day with short updates from each apprentice, reflecting on their journey so far, what they’ve been learning at college, the projects they’ve been involved in, and what lies ahead.
A recurring theme quickly emerged. The most challenging areas of study were often those with limited overlap to our day-to-day technical work. This sparked an open and honest discussion about how the forum can act as a peer support network. With everyone at different stages of their apprenticeship, there is always someone who has faced a similar challenge and can offer practical advice. That collaborative spirit sits at the heart of NextGen4um.
We then moved into a session focused on End Point Assessment (EPA), a milestone that can understandably feel daunting. With one attendee awaiting their assessment date and another having recently passed, the group benefited from first-hand insights and practical reassurance. Hearing real experiences helped make the process feel clearer and more manageable.
After a productive morning, we headed out of lunch together; a valuable opportunity for colleagues from different offices to connect informally and strengthen relationships beyond the meeting room.
The afternoon included a session with one of our registered STEM Ambassadors, who spoke about the importance and reward of inspiring young people to explore engineering and technology. The discussion highlighted the diversity of careers within our sector and encouraged apprentices to consider how they might get involved in outreach themselves.
We rounded off the day with a practical STEM challenge, building balloon-powered cars using simple materials. The results were varied and occasionally unpredictable, but the exercise delivered exactly what it was intended to: teamwork, creativity, and plenty of positive energy.
The first NextGen4um session was a genuine success. Attendees left with stronger connections, new insights, and a clearer sense of how the forum can support them throughout their apprenticeship and early career journey at 4way.
National Apprenticeship Week is about recognising the value apprentices bring to our industry. Through initiatives like NextGen4um, we’re investing in their growth, confidence, and future, and we’re excited to see where the forum goes next.
Celebrating an Amazing 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, it’s a natural moment to reflect on a year that has been both significant and transformative for 4way Consulting. This year marked our 15th anniversary, a milestone we reached with characteristic focus on delivery rather than fanfare, while continuing to strengthen our role across intelligent transport, smart cities, and infrastructure assurance.
Industry Recognition, Awards, and Achievements
2025 was another year of recognition for our team’s dedication and expertise. Highlights include:
- Our Blackpool Smart Traffic Corridors project with Blackpool Council, E.ON, and Pell Frischmann winning the ITS UK Sustainable Environment through Technology Award, demonstrating how intelligent, data-led traffic management can reduce congestion, improve air quality, and support low-carbon travel choices.
- Our innovative safety work on the M621 Junctions 1–7 Improvement Scheme with BWB, Aureos, and National Highways, as well as our collaborative approach, alongside Telent, to the delivery of the NEAR Programme both being being shortlisted for the ITS UK Better Safety Through Technology Award, showcasing the success of a series of safety interventions to support successful scheme delivery.
- Yousaf Ahmed achieved his City & Guilds 2382, 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, for designing electrical systems to the national standard for safety ensuring compliance with BS 7671 IET.
- Ismaeel Ali completed his Level 3 Engineering Technician apprenticeship, evidencing continued growth and professional development.
- Rebecca Bollen achieved CEng with the IHE, enhancing her professional standing and technical capability to lead, assure, and deliver complex transport and smart city projects.
- Jon Brunt successfully completed the RSBG UK Emerging Leaders Programme. Underpinned by the CMI, the programme aimed to cultivate future talent by delivering a balanced introduction to professional management and leadership.
- Shane Collins won the most innovative paper and presentation for Blackpool Smart Traffic Corridors at the 2025 JCT Traffic Signals Symposium.
- Oliver Craig passed his Level 3 Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technician apprenticeship with a Distinction, demonstrating strong technical capability and a readiness to learn and apply his skills.
- Will Dismoor won the graduate ITS UK Early Careers Essay Competition, reflecting our commitment to developing forward-thinking professionals who are shaping the future of ITS.
We’re proud to celebrate these accolades, which reflect the hard work and dedication of our people.
Investing in People and Early Careers
Our achievements in 2025 were underpinned by our people. Over the year, we welcomed new colleagues into the business that strengthen our capabilities across disciplines while maintaining the collaborative culture that defines 4way. This years’ new starters were:
- David Coldron – Senior Lighting Engineer
- Sumaiyah Razak – Traffic Signals Engineer
- Deacon Clift – Apprentice Engineer
- Lubna Mansour – PMO Administrator
Broadening Capability and Building Resilience
Away from individual people and projects, 2025 saw continued progress in strengthening how we operate as a business. We achieved ISO 27001 certification, reinforcing our commitment to information security alongside our existing ISO 9001 accreditation, and ensuring our clients’ data and systems remain protected in an increasingly digital environment.
Sustainability also remained central to our work and operations. Building on our Carbon Reduction Plan, we reported a 25% reduction in emissions since our 2021 baseline and achieved a ‘B’ score in the Carbon Disclosure Programme (CDP); clear evidence that practical action is delivering measurable results.
Thought Leadership and Industry Engagement
Throughout 2025, 4way continued to actively contribute to industry forums that shape the future of transport technology. Notable moments include:
- Sponsoring the JCT Traffic Signals Symposium, where our team highlighted innovations driving smarter urban solutions.
- Supported the development of apprentice’s from both National Highways and Transport for West Midlands with placements within 4way alongside our own early careers staff.
- Exhibited and presented at the University of Bolton and Manchester Metropolitan University graduate and apprenticeship careers fares, to raise awareness of the ITS industry and inspire the next generation.
- Participating in the TTF, ITS UK, AESIN and Automotive Council events – and leading some of their forums – reinforcing our commitment to collaboration, knowledge sharing, and staying at the forefront of emerging practice.
- Junior vice president for the Institute of Highway Engineers and vice chair of the Women in ITS forum of ITS UK.
Giving Back and Celebrating Together
As part of our commitment to social value, we’ve continued to support our chosen charity for 2025, MacMillan, with various activities throughout the year, culminating in a team-wide Christmas raffle. We have also been supporting WEEECHARITY in Warrington for responsibly offloading surplus and redundant IT equipment. These are in addition to various contributions to project based social value initiatives to which are often facilitated through our client and partner organisations. To cap off the year, we gathered for festive celebrations in both Birmingham and Manchester with our Pell Frischmann colleagues, complete with baking and Christmas jumper competitions and a shared meal to reflect on our achievements. This tradition not only strengthens our team spirit but also reinforces the values and relationships that make 4way special.
Looking Back, and Ahead to 2026
Reflecting on 2025, it has been a year defined by resilience, evolution, and recognition. As parts of the industry continue to change, 4way has successfully adapted, broadening its service offering, delivering award-winning outcomes, and strengthening its foundations for the future. Most importantly, this progress has been driven by the dedication of our people, the trust of our clients, and the strength of our partnerships. As we move into the next chapter, we do so with confidence, clarity, and momentum.
4way successfully implement an ISO 27001 compliant Information Security Management System (ISMS)
In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, information is a critical resource, and the protection of information assets is a major concern for businesses and public-sector authorities alike. Increased threats from criminals and state actors, together with a growing dependence on digital storage and processing systems, mean that information security has never been more important.
Over recent months, our internal teams have been working hard to develop and implement additional controls to assure the continued security of our information assets and those entrusted to us by our customers and partners. Existing good practice has been refined and expanded, with new procedures introduced to further strengthen our information security capabilities.
At the end of October, we hosted auditors from ISOQAR, who spent time with our teams in Manchester and Birmingham assessing compliance with the ISO 27001 standard. The audit was successful, and as a result ISOQAR have now awarded 4way certification under the standard. Certificate Number: 11359.
Ian Pengelly, Technical Director for Digital, 4way Consulting, said:
“This has been an aspiration of 4way for some time, and it is monumental to finally achieve it. This is a testament to the team that have led the development of our ISMS, and senior level sponsorship it has received. Finally, we couldn’t have made the final hurdle without the willingness of our colleagues across the company to embrace change”.
ISO 27001 certification marks an important achievement for 4way and together with our existing ISO 9001 certification, underlining our continued commitment to delivering the highest quality services while protecting our customers sensitive information.
4way & Blackpool Council Win the “Sustainable Environment through Technology” Award at the ITS UK President’s Dinner 2025
We’re proud to announce that 4way with Blackpool Council won the “Sustainable Environment through Technology” Award at the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) UK President’s Dinner and Awards 2025, held in the prestigious Church House, London. The evening brought together professionals and organisations from across the transport technology sector to celebrate innovation, collaboration, and progress. 4way was delighted to host a table and share the evening with valued colleagues, partners, and clients, reflecting on another fantastic year for the industry and our team.
The “Sustainable Environment through Technology” Award recognises our collaborative work on the Blackpool Smart Traffic Corridors project. This is a transformative initiative led by Blackpool Council, supported by 4way Consulting, E.On, and Pell Frischmann, and funded by the Department for Transport’s Green Light Fund. Currently in delivery, the project is transforming five of Blackpool’s most important transport corridors into digitally enabled, data-driven routes. These include The Promenade, Preston New Road, East Park Drive, Plymouth Road, and Central Drive, all of which experience high traffic variability due to tourism, events, and urban density. Through the deployment of Smartmicro TRUGRD radar detectors, AI-driven optimisation (Simplifai Systems), and cloud-based traffic control (Swarco MyCity Strategy Manager), the project introduces a near fully adaptive traffic management system designed to:
Ian Large, Head of Highway and Traffic Management Services, Blackpool Council, said:
“This project shows what can be achieved when collaboration genuinely drives innovation. By bringing together expertise across a range of project partners, we’re delivering smarter, cleaner, and more responsive transport corridors for residents and visitors alike. It’s fantastic to see this recognised nationally, and even more rewarding to know we’re helping shape a more sustainable future for Blackpool. This is just the beginning of how Blackpool intends to use collaboration and innovation to create a greener, smarter town.”
Shane Collins, Smart Cities Sector Lead, 4way Consulting, said:
“It’s a real pleasure supporting Blackpool Council and the wider team on this innovative and transformative project. Through the use of modern open data systems and data driven interventions we are ensuring that the Blackpool network is able to respond in real time to its unique set of network challenges. The project outcomes look to improve the lives of the local residents and help the shift towards a more sustainable environment in the town through improving air quality and reducing emissions by improving journey times and reducing congestion, as well as prioritising sustainable transport modes. The technologies being used also ensure that Blackpool is in a good place to expand on the work currently being done as the systems and technologies being implemented as part of this project, act as an enabler to incorporate evolving and future technologies which will help the shape a greener and sustainable future for the town.”
This work exemplifies how practical, standards-compliant digitalisation can make meaningful contributions to environmental sustainability, not just through new technology, but through long-term, scalable design.
We’d like to thank Blackpool Council and our partners for their collaboration and shared commitment to improving local environments through technology. The Sustainable Environment through Technology Award is a proud moment for 4way, recognising not only the success of the project, but also our continued focus on supporting cleaner, smarter, and more resilient transport networks. You can read more about the project below.
Supporting Early Careers: National Highways Apprentice Placement at 4way
At 4way, we believe in supporting the development of future talent across the transport technology sector. So, when the opportunity arose to host Oliver Constable from National Highways for an apprenticeship placement focused on Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), we were delighted to get involved.
Understanding how vital on-the-job experience is for apprentices, especially when it comes to building their technical portfolios, our team designed a placement programme that combined practical project involvement with tailored guidance and mentorship. Here’s what Oliver had to say about his time with us:
” As an apprentice, to realise the value from university modules I am expected to put my learning into practice in projects at work, which forms the basis of my technical portfolio. 4way Consulting kindly offered me a placement within their team to provide me with experience in a wide variety of ITS related projects. The team were fantastic at understanding the requirements for my apprenticeship programme. They specifically tailored a detailed plan of projects I could assist with to target each of my apprenticeship objectives. This was extremely beneficial and enabled me to forecast which objectives I would be able to evidence.
During my placement with 4way, I took part in a wide variety of projects in areas such as electrical installations, visual surveys, data analytics, information management, service management, and traffic signals design. The 4way team were always friendly, inclusive, and provided support when needed, creating a great environment for learning and development.
The experience was received very well and sparked my interest in certain areas of ITS, namely traffic signals, influencing me to pursue the area further post programme.
Initially I didn’t know what to expect, however, the placement clearly exceeded my expectations. After completing the placement, I felt very positive about the skills I had developed and the amount of evidence I had gained for my technical portfolio.
My action plan for now is to build upon the skills learnt from the placement and gain more experience in ITS, specifically in traffic signals. I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with 4way. I would be keen to do something similar in future as it was very valuable experience and a great team to collaborate with.”
It was a pleasure to work with such an engaged and motivated individual, and we’re proud to have played a part in Oliver’s journey toward a career in ITS. Supporting early careers professionals is an important part of what we do at 4way, and we remain committed to creating opportunities that help shape the next generation of transport engineers and specialists.
Engineering a Career: Ismaeel’s Apprenticeship Success
Starting off on a path towards a career of graphic design that saw him establish his own wedding event services, Ismaeel has always had an interest in engineering. Influenced by his father’s aspiration to take on jobs that others would use professionals for, he eventually reached an epiphany and changed tack. This saw him join 4way, having been introduced by his brother, and start a level 3 BTEC engineering apprenticeship in advanced manufacturing at Warwickshire College Group.
Over the next four years, Ismaeel would spend time on day release from work learning theory and practical skills at college, then apply those skills in his project work. This proved to be a positive combination, allowing him to thrive and giving him the support he needed to balance work and study. His course project was a particular highlight, with his experience at work providing an ideal topic to focus on and input from colleagues to help refine its scope, ultimately resulting in his efforts receiving a distinction. This set him up well for his end point assessment and ultimately him successfully completing the course and receiving his EngTech from the Institute for Mechanical Engineering.
4way is proud to have another apprentice graduate, setting them up to grow in their career and act as champions for others looking to balance education and work. Ismaeel celebrated with a date night with his partner, a rare occurrence for parents of two young children, with 4way picking up the bill to top off the evening. Looking forward, he is aiming for his IEng as the next step of continual development and acting as a mentor for others following in his footsteps.
Reflecting on his achievement, Ismaeel said:
“My apprenticeship journey with 4way has been a big step forward in my career and a key moment in my life. It showed me that this was the right path to take, especially after spending time trying to figure out what I wanted to do. I’ve learned many useful skills that I now use in my day-to-day work, and I’ve had great support from both 4way and my colleagues, which has helped me grow both professionally and personally.
Now that I know what support is available to me here at 4way, I feel confident and ready to keep moving forward in my career.“
Will Dismorr Wins ITS UK Early Careers Essay Competition
4way Consulting is proud to celebrate a major achievement from one of our team members, Will Dismorr, who has been named the Early Careers Professional Winner of the ITS UK Essay Competition 2025.
The competition – a national platform recognising the ideas and insights of emerging professionals in the transport technology sector – invites 1,500-word submissions exploring key challenges and innovations across the industry. Open to apprentices, students, and professionals in their first five years in the sector, it aims to spotlight the next generation of intelligent transport thinkers.
Will’s winning essay, How do we ensure our transport network is ready for Net Zero, offered a thoughtful analysis of the challenges surrounding transport decarbonisation and the role of technology in delivering sustainable solutions. His writing stood out for being insightful, well-argued, and creative in considering complex issues and thinking strategically.
As part of his prize, Will receives a £500 cash award, a career mentoring session with Paul Campion (TRL) or Dr Joanna White (National Highways), and publication and promotion of his essay across the UK transport technology sector.
Will was presented with his award at the ITS UK Early Careers Drinks Reception on 15 May 2025, held in central London. The event brought together professionals across all career stages, with a focus on recognising the contributions of new voices in the industry. The evening was hosted by ITS UK and sponsored by the IHE, with the prizes awarded by ITS UK President Steve Norris.
Upon his win, Will said:
“I’m delighted and deeply thankful to have won the ITS UK Early Careers Essay Competition. I’m grateful not only for the opportunity to share my ideas, but also for the mentors, colleagues, and peers who continue to inspire me.”
Jason Loader, 4way Future Mobility Discipline Lead, said:
“I’m proud to celebrate Will’s achievement. This is well-earned recognition that reflects both his hard work and clear thinking on the future of transport. It’s great to see his voice gaining presence in the industry, and this will no doubt support his continued growth and confidence as a young professional.”
Jonathan Goddard, 4way Managing Director, said:
“ITS UK sets the highest standards for our sector, continuously striving for advancements and innovation. For Will to be recognised in this way is a great achievement and one which confirms his status as a future thought leader for digital transport.”
Congratulations, Will – we’re proud to have you as part of the 4way team.
4way at the Elex Show 2025
Once again, 4way attended the Elex Show in Bolton to keep up to date with all things electrical. This year, Paul Carroll was joined by 4way Engineer Yousaf Ahmed and National Highways Engineer Hamzah Sajid. It was a privilege to have several technical discussions about highway electrical nuances with Mark Coles (Head of Technical Regulations at the IET) and Graham Kenyon (author of numerous IET guidance notes).
Highlights of the day were:
- Browsing the latest offering of distribution boards and cables from various suppliers
- Discussing various topics with IET experts
- Participating in an interactive EICR coding session
- Learning about the new type of RCD developed by Hager: Type B HP
Seminars attended:
- The IET Industry Forum – Design Considerations for Solar PV Systems (IET)
- Earthing & bonding of Solar PV Systems (NICEIC)
- EICR Codebreakers Session (NAPIT)
- Joint FAQs from the Helpline – questions from each organisation + Audience Q&A (IET, NAPIT and NICEIC)
- RCD considerations for renewable technology (HAGER)
We’re proud to support the continuous professional development of our team, and we look forward to implementing the ideas and technologies shared at the Elex Show 2025 in upcoming projects.
Celebrating a Remarkable 2024
As we wrap up another successful year, 4way reflects on 2024 with immense pride and gratitude. This year has been marked by significant achievements, industry recognition, exciting events, and the addition of talented professionals to our growing team. We moved from Leamington Spa to an office shared with Pell Frischmann in Birmingham, and our Manchester office celebrated their one year anniversary with colleagues across Desco, McBains, and Pell Frischmann all in the midst of introducing a new ERP system.
Delivering Excellence Across Projects
From cutting-edge smart city solutions to enhancing operational technology strategies, our teams have worked tirelessly to deliver impactful projects across Connected Roads, Smart Cities, and Future Mobility throughout the UK.
Industry Recognition, Awards, and Achievements
2024 was a year of recognition for our team’s dedication and expertise. Highlights include:
- Our innovative work on the Edgbaston LRT Extension being shortlisted for the ITS UK Better Safety Through Technology Award, showcasing cutting-edge solutions for tram and road traffic integration.
- Tom Siddall being named the ITS UK Frontline Hero of the Year for his outstanding contributions to traffic signal engineering and mentoring future engineers.
- Rebecca Bollen being elected as Junior Vice President of the IHE, a testament to her leadership and influence in the industry.
- Mike Gibbins recognised in the OU7COME Awards for his role in resolving logistical challenges of the NEAR Programme, ensuring equipment deliveries reach schemes on time and helping the programme remain on track.
- Shane Collins honoured as the IHE Member of the Month and sharing his story to help inspire the next generation of traffic signal engineers.
- Anis Ali and Paul Carroll graduating from the National Highways Roads Academy Aspiring Leaders programme, enhancing their leadership skills, broadening their perspectives, and strengthening connections across the National Highways supply chain.
- Jason Loader successfully completing the RSBG UK Emerging Leaders Programme. Underpinned by the CMI, the programme aimed to cultivate future talent by delivering a balanced introduction to professional management and leadership.
We’re proud to celebrate these accolades, which reflect the hard work and dedication of our people.
Strengthening Our Expertise
This year, we welcomed several new faces to the 4way family, each bringing unique skills to strengthen our capabilities:
- Cameron Murphy – Apprentice Lighting Technician
- Sam Agbanagba – Cyber Security Consultant
- Shabaz Conteh – Senior Consultant
- Dave Martin – Senior Operational Technology Solutions Architect
- Sean Aitken – Senior Traffic Signals Engineer
Their contributions have already begun to shape our projects and bolster our service offerings. We’re thrilled to have them on board and look forward to their continued impact in the years to come.
Engaging with Industry
4way maintained a strong presence at key industry events throughout 2024, fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge. Notable moments include:
- Presenting on tunnels technology specifications at the UK Road Tunnel Operators Forum.
- Sponsoring the JCT Traffic Signals Symposium, where our team highlighted innovations driving smarter urban solutions.
- Participating in the TTF, ITS UK, AESIN and Automotive Council events – and leading some of their forums – underscoring our leadership in smart cities and intelligent transport systems.
- Engaged at the TfGM open day with various teams involved in the multi-agency planning and operation of the Greater Manchester transport network, including those responsible for tram and bus operations.
- Joining LCRIG at Salford City College Group to deliver some traffic signals overview training to their Highways Maintenance Academy apprentice’s. We were delighted to add a layer of knowledge about a related engineering discipline to enrich their core learning.
These engagements provided opportunities to learn, connect, and influence the future of transportation technology.
Giving Back and Celebrating Together
As part of our commitment to social value, we raised over £800 for Zoe’s Place through our annual charity raffle, supporting children with complex, life-limiting conditions. We’re proud to contribute to such a meaningful cause and thank our team for their generosity. This is in addition to various contributions to project based social value initiatives to which are often facilitated through our client and partner organisations. To cap off the year, we gathered for a festive celebration in Birmingham, complete with a treasure hunt and a shared meal to reflect on our achievements. This tradition not only strengthens our team spirit but also reinforces the values that make 4way special.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we prepare for the opportunities and challenges of the coming year, we remain committed to driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and delivering excellence. From all of us at 4way, we wish you a safe and joyous festive season. Here’s to a bright and successful 2025!
Mike Gibbins Earns SMP Recognition for Excellence
The National Emergency Area Retrofit (NEAR) Programme has been a significant undertaking, navigating accelerated timeframes and extensive technological requirements across 12 schemes and three contractors. The project presented logistical challenges ensuring the timely delivery of critical equipment to meet demanding schedules.
Recognising these hurdles, 4way were tasked to manage logistics and drive solutions. With many deliveries facing delays over the past year, 4way’s Mike Gibbins took the lead in identifying root causes and implementing a strategy to get equipment flowing efficiently. Mike’s collaborative approach involved working closely with National Highways Procurement, GXO Logistics, and individual scheme managers to align priorities, improve timelines, and mitigate risks.
The results have been transformative. Equipment now reaches schemes on time, ensuring program dates remain on track. Improved communication between SMP and schemes has been a standout outcome, earning praise from stakeholders across the board. Feedback from SMP Management has been overwhelmingly positive, and the efforts of the 4way team were recognised with a nomination for the SMP Quarterly Awards and commendation for production excellence.
Our work has also underscored key areas for improvement in the National Highways procurement process and highlighted the importance of robust communication between schemes and procurement teams. We’re proud to have supported the NEAR Programme’s success and to have contributed to its critical mission. Thank you to the SMP team and all partners for their collaboration and trust in 4way. Together, we’re driving progress and delivering excellence.
