Kidderminster friends turn long-time dream into thriving business with support from business education programme

Kidderminster-based GW Consulting Engineers, founded by friends and structural engineers Graham Chapman and Warrick Pannell, has experienced rapid growth thanks to support from the Enterprising Worcestershire Business Coaching programme.  

With more than 50 years of combined experience in the engineering sector, the two friends turned their 20-year dream of running their own practice into reality when they launched the firm in April 2022.  

Warrick Pannell said: “Our coach provided us with great ideas and helped us think more strategically about the future. 

"As a result, we hired our first staff member in June 2023, followed by another in October 2023.   

"In 2024 we further expanded our workforce recruiting a further two members of staff including our first Engineering Apprentice and a dedicated financial controller. 

"Our apprentice, which came after our second round of coaching, was a long-term goal for the business with both of us starting out as apprentices we wanted to offer the same opportunities as we were given.”  

Councillor Adam Kent, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, praised the initiative: “Enterprising Worcestershire is vital for supporting local businesses, driving job creation, and boosting our local economy. 

"Through tailored support and coaching, it empowers start-ups like GW Consulting Engineers to grow confidently and contribute positively to the community.” 

Mr Pannell said that GW Consulting Engineers was continuing to look to the future and was currently seeking an experienced Structural Engineer to join their growing team. 

A spokesman for Worcestershire County Council said: "The Enterprising Worcestershire programme continues to help businesses like GW Consulting Engineers realise their full potential, fostering economic growth and job creation in the region."