AN architectural technician has been appointed an associate of one the region’s leading practices.

Stephen Abbott takes up the new role with Darlington-based Niven Architects building on the foundations of a ten-year career in the building, construction and design industry.

The 32-year-old, of Billingham, is well versed in the intricacies of the building world after learning his trade in the basics of construction, from joinery and bricklaying to painting and decorating.

After leaving Billingham Campus School, his college studies brought him into contact with the complexities of computer aided design.

“Part of the course was architecture and part was auto-CAD which I loved and it took me in a completely new direction,” said Stephen.

“But the grounding I have had in the construction industry is proving incredibly useful when I work with the clients, consultants and contractors on site.

“My role is to ensure that the cutting-edge design the architects develop can actually be achieved technically and I liaise closely with them and the structural engineers.

“There are also a lot of regulations to consider and I help co-ordinate the design team. My experience really comes to the fore on site because if you make the wrong decision this can be costly.”

ANOTHER new Teesside appointment is Steve Dougan, who is working at Teesside University three days a week to help those setting up in business.

Steve has already been supporting businesses in the University’s Victoria Building for five years - often on a voluntary basis - to provide one-to-one coaching to new enterprises and mentoring interns who are placed with local businesses.

He held senior training positions at Orange and Vodafone before setting up his own business TeamSmart.