Two Winvic team members have been shortlisted for three individual awards at the National Highways Asset Community East (ACE) “Better Together” Awards 2026, while the Orwell Bridge Westbound Joint Replacement Scheme has also been shortlisted for Collaborative Project/Team of the Year.
Winvic is also sponsoring the Customer Experience of the Year Award, recognising the contribution made to ensuring customers are not adversely affected by National Highways work, including positive customer engagement and the outcomes achieved.
Pavlin Paskov: Boots on the Ground
Pavlin Paskov, Site Supervisor, has been shortlisted for the Boots on the Ground Award following his contribution to delivery across the National Highways Scheme Delivery Framework (SDF).
Pavlin has worked on the SDF for the past two years, supporting the delivery of more than 35 schemes across Areas 6 and 8. His work has included major schemes such as the Orwell Bridge Westbound Joint Replacement Scheme, alongside structures, joint replacement and saw cut and seal works.
Working in time-critical environments, often overnight, Pavlin is recognised for his calm and solutions-focused approach to site challenges. He is also a strong advocate of Winvic’s Doing It Right culture and a Home Safe and Well mindset, with the confidence to stop works where they are not safe, even when working under significant programme pressure.
His proactive approach to safety is reflected in the 70+ safety observations he submitted over the past 12 months, helping to identify risks, share best practice and support improvements across the SDF.
Management Quote
“Pav leads by example every day. Whether managing complex night-time operations, resolving unexpected site challenges or making difficult decisions under pressure, he remains calm, professional and focused on doing the right thing. Safety is never compromised under Pav’s supervision, and he has the confidence and integrity to stop works if something doesn’t look right, regardless of programme pressures or operational challenges.”
Wayne Laking: Unsung Hero(ine) of the Year and Health, Safety and Wellbeing Contribution of the Year
Wayne Laking, Highways Supervisor, has been shortlisted for both Unsung Hero(ine) of the Year and Health, Safety and Wellbeing Contribution of the Year.
Since Winvic’s appointment to the National Highways SDF in 2021, Wayne has become a trusted member of the delivery team, supporting complex structures maintenance schemes and providing technical knowledge and practical guidance to colleagues, National Highways representatives and supply chain partners.
His expertise in structures maintenance, particularly expansion joint removal and installation, has made him a key source of support across challenging schemes, including the M62 Ouse Bridge Joint Replacement Scheme and the Orwell Bridge Westbound Joint Replacement Scheme.
Wayne has also contributed to improvements in construction methodology, helping to transfer lessons learned and innovative techniques between schemes to improve efficiency, reduce construction risk and support programme delivery.
His contribution extends beyond technical delivery. During two separate incidents involving vulnerable members of the public on the Orwell Bridge scheme, Wayne responded with professionalism, compassion and courage, helping to keep those involved safe until emergency services arrived.
His actions also prompted wider discussions around mental health and wellbeing, contributing to the introduction of suicide prevention awareness training, crisis management support and mental health initiatives across the business.
Management Quote:
“Wayne is one of those people who naturally inspires those around him without ever seeking recognition for it. His knowledge, experience and professionalism mean that colleagues instinctively turn to him for advice and support, but it is his attitude and leadership that really set him apart. He leads by example every day, takes pride in doing things the right way, and consistently encourages others to raise their standards alongside him.
“What impresses me most is his willingness to mentor others, whether that is helping a younger member of the team develop their confidence, sharing lessons learned from previous schemes, or stepping forward during difficult situations. Wayne has a calm and measured approach that earns the respect of everyone he works with, and his influence can be seen across the projects and people he supports. He embodies the values we want to see throughout our business and is a genuine role model to those around him.”
Orwell Bridge: Collaborative Project/Team of the Year
The Orwell Bridge Westbound Joint Replacement Scheme has also been shortlisted for Collaborative Project/Team of the Year, following an entry submitted by project partner WSP.
The scheme involved the replacement of the bridge’s westbound expansion joints, with the project team working collaboratively to deliver the complex works safely and efficiently while managing the impact on one of the region’s key routes.
The shortlist recognises the contribution of the wider project team and the collaborative approach taken to planning and delivering the works.
The project was previously recognised at the 2025 National Highways ACE “Better Together” Awards, winning the Outstanding Achievement Award, and won the Project of The Year Award at The Highways Awards 2026.
Good luck to Pavlin, Wayne, the Orwell Bridge project team and all nominees at this year’s awards!
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