At Black & White Engineering, we believe that long-term success comes from investing in our people and creating genuine opportunities for career growth across our global offices. 

This month, we’re proud to celebrate two colleagues who have reached an incredible milestone: Hassaan Farooq, Group Finance Manager based in Dubai, and GP Avecilla, Associate Director based in Manila. Each mark 10 years with Black & White joining a growing group of long serving team members who have shaped our success from the early days to the global business we are today.  

With more than 1,000 colleagues across the world, reaching a decade of service is a significant achievement. For us, it reflects a culture where people choose to stay and continue to grow their careers within our One Global Team. 

Hassaan and GP’s stories, while beginning in different corners of the world, reflect the same spirit of collaboration and innovation that connects all our teams worldwide. 

Hassaan’s Career Growth Journey at Black & White

For Hassaan, what first stood out about Black & White was “the energy and ambition from the very top.” He recalls walking through the office during his first interview and being inspired by the passion and vision of the leadership team. “Ten years later, that same drive is still what inspires me to stay,” he reflects. Over the past decade, he has seen the company evolve into a more global, structured and forward-thinking organisation, and he has grown alongside it.

“One of the highlights for me was leading the implementation of Microsoft Dynamics 365. It was a huge challenge, but the trust and support I received made it one of my proudest achievements here.” 

GP’s Leadership Story

Across the world in Manila, GP shares a similar appreciation for the culture that has shaped his career.

“I joined Black & White for its teamwork and meaningful global projects. Ten years later, I stay inspired by the people and the culture of collaboration and excellence.”

Known for his leadership and dedication to mentoring others, GP takes pride in seeing the younger engineers he has guided now thriving in their own leadership roles. “It’s proof that when you stay curious, embrace challenges, and take ownership of your growth, you can go a long way with the support of your team.” 

Growing With a Company That’s Always Moving Forward

Both Hassaan and GP have witnessed remarkable change over the years, from the company’s expansion into new regions and markets to its continued focus on innovation, learning and engineering excellence that drives long-term success. 

As Hassaan puts it, “What excites me most about the future is that the ambition hasn’t slowed down. There’s always a new goal, a new opportunity, and a real sense that we’re building something lasting.” 

At Black & White Engineering, we are proud to celebrate the dedication, passion, and professional career growth of our people. Their stories remind us that our greatest success lies not only in the projects we deliver but in the people who make them possible. 

Inspired by Hassaan and GP’s Stories? 

Explore where a career at Black & White Engineering could take you. Visit our careers page to learn more. 

A new generation of engineers are shaping the data centre industry. Gen Z graduates and apprentices are bringing fresh perspectives, digital fluency and a strong sense of purpose to the workplace.

At Black & White Engineering, we see this generation not just as future talent, but as active contributors to our progress. Across our global offices, our graduate and apprenticeship programmes combine real-world experience with structured learning to equip Gen Z engineers with the confidence, skills and insight to build what’s next.

Every journey at Black & White is unique. From Newcastle to Noida and across to Manila, our graduate and apprentice engineers are shaping their careers while contributing to projects that matter. Here are just a few of their stories.

Abby Broadbent – Mechanical Engineer, Newcastle UK

Abby began her engineering career with Black & White through the UK’s PlanBEE programme, an industry-led initiative developing the next generation of built environment professionals. After completing her apprenticeship and gaining hands-on experience within our data centre team, Abby has recently been promoted to Mechanical Engineer, continuing her journey from trainee to qualified engineer while contributing to major projects.

“When I was completing the PlanBEE programme, I applied to three companies as part of the course and Black & White was my first choice. The opportunity offered the chance to study part time for a Building Services Engineering degree, supported by experienced mentors and clear career progression routes.

Through my apprenticeship placement at Black & White, I gained valuable, real-world experience working on live client projects. I also felt completely supported during my placement and learnt so much in a short space of time. My opinions were valued, and I felt included as a key member of the team.

One of the best things about working at Black & White is the diversity of work and freedom to gain experience within the consultancy’s different sectors and learn from everyone on the team, across all levels. I am very pleased to have been promoted to Mechanical Engineer. Black & White is a great company to work for and I feel equipped with the tools, training and support required to excel in my job.”

Ashutosh Kumar – Revit / CAD Specialist, Noida, India

Meet Ashutosh. Ashutosh joined Black & White as a graduate in 2024 with his education and expertise in electrical engineering.

“I joined Black & White as a graduate because of the company’s strong reputation for delivering innovative, high-impact engineering solutions across multiple sectors, including electrical, mechanical, plumbing and ELV systems. I was looking for a place where I could grow technically while also contributing to meaningful projects early in my career.

During my research and after speaking with a few people already working here I was impressed by the collaborative culture and the level of support offered to graduates. The structured development programme, mentorship opportunities and exposure to real-world engineering challenges made Black & White the ideal place to start my journey.

One of the most valuable experiences I’ve had is learning how to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical teams. I’m committed to developing deeper technical expertise, as engineering is a constantly evolving field. I want to continue growing not only as an engineer but also in my overall professional journey.

For new graduates, I highly recommend Black & White as a great place to learn, grow and build a strong foundation for your career.”

Catriona Gluyas – Sustainability Consultant, Newcastle, UK

Catriona joined Black & White in 2023 after graduating from the University of Edinburgh and within just 12 months was promoted to Sustainability Consultant.

“When I first applied to Black & White’s graduate programme, I was struck by their unique approach to hiring graduates all year round. It showed a real commitment to attracting top talent and tailoring the programme to individual needs.

From the start, the company’s investment in my development was clear. Within my first two weeks at Black & White, I’d already completed and passed the BREEAM Associate exam. But it’s not just about formal qualifications the Learning Week sessions through the Global Academy have been invaluable too. A session on ‘prioritising time’ helped me create strategies that I still use every day to manage project workloads. The Global Academy is also a great way to connect with other graduates globally and build a sense of community.

Mentorship is a cornerstone of the graduate experience. My line manager, mentor and buddy have each played a part in helping me transition from university graduate to professional life. Since my recent promotion to Sustainability Consultant, I’ve continued to build on that support through in-person learning residencies and formal qualifications that are helping me take the next step in my career.”

Ziddney Jandusay – Graduate Mechanical Engineer, Manila, Philippines

We recently welcomed one of our newest graduates, Ziddney, to our Quezon City office in Manila. A licensed mechanical engineer and graduate of Batangas State University, Ziddney is already putting his strong foundation in HVAC system design into practice.

“Starting a new career straight from university can be daunting, but joining Black & White made the transition smooth and fulfilling. It’s a supportive environment where learning is encouraged and every question, no matter how small, is welcomed. Growth here is guided every step of the way.

What stands out most is the teamwork. From my first month, I saw how collaboration drives success and being part of One Global Team means you’re never working alone. There’s always someone ready to share their knowledge and offer guidance.

Beyond work, the company promotes balance through activities like sports, which help build connections and well-being. The graduate training programme is comprehensive, helping you build both technical and professional confidence through real project experience, mentorship and feedback.

My advice to future graduates: embrace the learning process. Black & White gives you every opportunity to grow. You’ll find not just a workplace, but a community that helps you become the engineer you aspire to be.”

Building the Next Generation

From technical capability to professional confidence, our apprentices and graduates are building strong foundations for their future careers. Supported by mentors, on-the-job experience and structured learning through our Global Academy, they are part of our One Global Team culture that values collaboration and continuous development.

If you are looking to start your engineering journey in a place where learning never stops, discover our Graduate and Apprenticeship opportunities on our Careers Page.

As over 50 team members mark more than a decade with Black & White, we’re highlighting the personal stories that have shaped our global team.

In this article, two of our long-serving colleagues in Manila Blessilda Bedro and Ernico Cordero look back at their career journeys and what they’ve learned along the way.

Blessilda Bedro, HR/Admin Assistant – Manila

“Black & White gave me the opportunity to grow and they’ve supported me every step of the way.”

 

“Before Black & White, I spent nearly 10 years at a small MEP design firm in the UAE. When the opening here came up, I knew it was the right move. The company had a more global mindset, with diverse ways of thinking, working styles, and business practices. That really attracted me.

“What’s made me stay for over a decade is the sense of loyalty and trust, the strong work-life balance and the support from our directors. I’m also grateful to our CEO for giving me the opportunity to transfer to the Manila office. That kind of leadership makes a difference.

“Over the years, I’ve seen the company grow in size and capability, integrating new systems and technologies, especially in HR and expanding our global footprint. At the same time, I’ve continued to build my skills and adapt.

“What makes Black & White stand out is the culture of development and wellbeing. There are training opportunities and conferences across all levels, plus scholarship programmes that support fresh graduates. I’ve always appreciated how the company encourages health, wellness, and camaraderie through sports and team-building activities.

“Looking ahead, I’m excited about the company’s continued global expansion and our focus on innovation. The opening of our new office in Quezon City is another big step and one I know will support the next generation of engineers coming through.”

Ernico Cordero, Revit/CAD Lead – Manila

“The learning never stops and that’s something I really value here.”

 

“Looking back at my time here at Black & White, I’ve witnessed significant personal and professional growth. When I first started, the industry and company processes were new to me. I stayed focused, kept learning and leaned on the support of my colleagues.

“My understanding and confidence in my role have deepened, and I have grown both as an individual and as a professional.

“Over the past decade, I’ve developed technical skills, grown into a leadership role and learned how to adapt in fast-changing environments.

“One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been the relationships I’ve built with my colleagues. Whether it was through formal training or informal mentorship, the collaborative environment has been crucial in helping me evolve in my career.

“I’m excited about the future and the opportunities for growth that lie ahead. I’m committed to continuing to learn and grow in my role, contributing to the success of my team and building on the foundation I’ve established here at Black & White.”

Inspired by Ernico and Bless’s stories?

Explore where a career at Black & White Engineering could take you. Visit our careers page to learn more.

At Black & White Engineering, we’re proud to recognise the colleagues whose long-standing contributions have helped shape who we are today. With over 50 team members marking more than a decade with the business this year, we’re sharing some of the experiences that reflect our global culture in action.

In this article, we hear from Dubai-based team members Melissa Alvarado and Domar Buan as they reflect on their growth, challenges and what continues to drive them forward.

Melissa Alvarado, Senior Accountant – Dubai

“Even the smallest contributions are recognised. I feel trusted in my role and part of something bigger.”

 

“I still remember my first day. There was no accounting software in place yet, and I was learning the ropes but I immediately felt the support around me. I even remember our CEO offering to walk me through the company’s financial cycle. That level of involvement really stood out.

“In the first few years, I stayed because I genuinely enjoyed the work and felt supported by the team. As the company grew, I felt more trusted in my role and appreciated how even the smallest contributions were recognised by leadership. That sense of belonging, and the ‘One Global Team’ value, made a lasting impression.

“Everyone here is accountable, and you can see the passion in the people you work with. That’s what makes Black & White unique.

“There’s been a lot of digital transformation since then, and that brought new challenges. I had to push myself to adapt and keep up. Over time, I’ve developed stronger communication and management skills, and taken a more proactive, learning-focused mindset to become more effective in my role.

“One of the things I’m most proud of is supporting the team behind the scenes and helping others grow. Seeing that impact over time has been incredibly rewarding.

“Looking ahead, I’m excited to see Black & White continue to grow and be recognised as a leader in the industry. Knowing I’ve been part of that journey keeps me motivated to grow with the business.”

Domar Buan, Site Inspector (Mechanical) – Dubai

“The company doesn’t just talk about its values. It lives them. That’s what makes it a great place to work.”

 

“I remember my first day, excited and a little nervous, but the team was incredibly welcoming, and the onboarding process was thorough. That experience really set the tone.

“I was first attracted to Black & White because of its strong commitment to professional growth and the supportive team culture. The variety of challenging projects drew me in and have kept me engaged over the years.

“Black & White has grown significantly since I joined, expanding its capabilities and taking on more complex projects. I’ve grown alongside that change personally and professionally developing new skills and learning to adapt to different challenges.

“The culture of continuous learning here has helped me evolve. Every project I’ve worked on has pushed me to grow, and what I’m most proud of is how we collaborate as a team to deliver the best results. Initiative is valued here. If you take advantage of the opportunities available, you’ll thrive.

“Looking ahead, I’m excited about the company’s commitment to innovation and embracing new technologies. There’s so much potential for continued growth and impact in the industry, and I look forward to being part of that.

“If I could offer one piece of advice to new team members, it would be this: embrace every learning opportunity, be open to collaboration and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

Inspired by Melissa and Domar’s stories?

Explore where a career at Black & White Engineering could take you. Visit our careers page to learn more.

At Black & White Engineering, we are proud to celebrate the people who have shaped our success. With over 50 team members reaching their 10-year anniversaries and above this year, their stories offer a unique insight into what makes an engineering career at Black & White so rewarding.

In this article, we hear from our Newcastle office, where Barry Allan and Tony Hutchinson reflect on their decade of growth, global projects and the importance of a strong team culture.

Tony Hutchinson, Principal Mechanical Engineer – Newcastle

“The ‘One Team’ ethos is real here. Everyone wants to do a good job. You can feel the drive to deliver the best possible outcome. After a while, colleagues become friends, even family.”

 

“One of my lecturers told me Black & White had just opened in Newcastle and were looking for graduates. I reached out for a summer placement and ended up with a full-time offer. I spoke with Steve Horn in that first meeting and I just knew this was something I wanted to be part of. The scale of the projects, the ambition, the people. It all felt right.

“I’ve grown a lot in ten years. Learning how to manage people effectively has probably been the biggest shift for me. The last year, especially, has been the most important of my career, thanks to the support from our Learning & Development team.

“And the future? I want to see how far we can take this. I’ve seen what we’ve built in a decade. I truly believe we’re on track to be one of the best engineering consultancies in the world, if we’re not already.”

Barry Allan, Project BIM Lead – Newcastle

“It’s the people who’ve kept me here. They’re genuinely the best colleagues I’ve ever worked with.”

 

“I joined Black & White because a friend recommended I come in for an interview. I’m so glad I did. Back then, we were just 12 people working on the first floor of Generator Studios. I’ve seen the Newcastle office move twice to make room for our growing team. The projects have got bigger and more technically challenging. When I started, there were two of us in BIM, now there are seven, and that’s just in Newcastle. We’re working closely with our India team to deliver high-profile projects.

“Personally, Black & White has been a constant through a lot of big milestones. I got married and have also became a dad during my time here. I’ve seen us grow not just in size but in ambition. We’ve built a strong brand, a global presence and a culture that feels like one team. That’s what makes this place so special.”

Inspired by Barry and Tony’s stories?

Explore where an engineering career at Black & White could take you. Visit our careers page to learn more.