Yorkshire engineering specialist HJ Consulting Engineers (HJCE) has announced two appointments as it continues to expand its commercial footprint and strengthen its service offering.

Stuart Farrell joins the Wakefield-based firm as associate (structures), bringing more than 25 years’ experience in telecoms structures design and management.

Working alongside the senior leadership team, Stuart will draw on his extensive expertise in engineering project delivery across the wireless sector, network evolution and asset management to help expand the company’s national reach while meeting the exacting requirements of network operators.

He will work particularly closely with director Andy Jennings, whose expertise in building design ensures that projects for telecoms clients including WHP Telecoms, Circet and KTL are underpinned by time-tested engineering principles.

HJCE is also investing in the next generation of engineering talent with the appointment of school leaver Jack Paddey as technical apprentice. Jack will support the 26-strong team with technical tasks, data analysis and hands-on project management.

With revenues forecast to exceed £3m over the next 12 months, HJCE expects to make further appointments following a busy year.

Managing director Andrew Fairburn said: “Investing in new talent reflects strong demand for our specialist knowledge and forms part of a strategy to build a pipeline of skilled engineers at all levels.

“Our business is only as strong as our people, and we recognise the importance of securing talented people such as Stuart and Jack to deliver first-class client services. We are proud of the calibre of people who we attract and work for us, as we strive to deliver excellence and grow our national footprint.”