Howard Penstone, 37, development manager, Network Rail

What has been the hardest challenge you鈥檝e faced to get where you are?
Accepting the fact that as a project and development manager, you will never know everything about construction and property. This is why I place so much emphasis on strong and collaborative relationships with other experts in their fields.

Where do you see the future of the construction industry going?
Next year the industry will be feeling the impact of the cuts arising from the spending review. This is bound to result in further casualties. However, I expect to see more private sector investment emerging which should offset some of the pain.

What has been your high point so far?
Watching the ground being broken at Network Rail鈥檚 national centre in Milton Keynes. It represented the culmination of 18 months of work.

And the low point?
Watching how the slump has affected the construction industry and the people involved in it has been very sad.

Who is your hero?
My father.