IPS celebrates industry excellence at the Queensland Major Contractors Association Awards

Queensland’s construction industry has come together to celebrate the people and projects driving excellence, with IPS proud to honour an outstanding contribution through the James Sheldon award.

IPS is proud to congratulate Simon Albery of CPB Contractors on being named the recipient of the 2025 IPS James Sheldon Construction Professional of the Year Award at the Queensland Major Contractors Association (QMCA) Innovation and Excellence Awards.

Held in Brisbane, the annual event once again brought together leaders from across the construction industry to celebrate the projects and professionals shaping Queensland’s infrastructure.

The IPS James Sheldon Construction Professional of the Year Award recognises an individual who demonstrates excellence in construction delivery, leadership and contribution to the industry – all qualities that reflect the legacy of our late colleague James Sheldon.

Announcing the award winner, IPS Managing Director Sascha Kurz said: “Simon is a humble, highly educated and ethics-driven construction professional who brings a fresh mindset to the industry.”

“Drawing on his PhD research and cross-industry best practice, he translates theory into practical solutions that create real value on construction projects.

“A published author who actively gives back to the profession, Simon is also deeply committed to training and educating the next generation of industry leaders. He exemplifies the calibre of professional we are proud to recognise as the QMCA Construction Professional of the Year.”

Simon said he was truly honoured to receive the “recognition from the QMCA, IPS, and James Sheldon’s legacy”.

“This award belongs to the entire team at CPB and the incredible colleagues I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. Construction is never a solo effort – it’s the collective opportunities, discipline, integrity and hard work of the people who show up every day to build something better. Proud to accept this on behalf of all of you.”

The IPS James Sheldon Construction Professional of the Year Award was established to honour the memory of James Sheldon, a highly respected IPS engineer known for his technical excellence, integrity and passion for the construction industry.

Sascha said the award continued to recognise individuals who embody those same values.

“James loved construction and took great pride in the work and the people around him,” she said. “It’s incredibly meaningful to see that legacy continue through professionals like Simon and the broader group of nominees each year.”

We congratulate Simon and the other finalists – Shaneel Nyawo of Fulton Hogan, Steven Hale of JF Hull Holdings Pty Ltd, Jack Grant of SEE Group and Blake Miles of Seymour White – plus all the 2025 QMCA award winners.

Photo caption (L-R): IPS Managing Director, Sascha Kurz, 2025 Recipient of the IPS James Sheldon Construction Professional of the Year Award, Simon Albery, Derek Sheldon and Anna Sheldon.



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