This year's IWIED theme is #EngineeringIntelligence. How do you think you show #EngineeringExcellence in your work?
To me, engineering excellence is about delivering structural integrity that balances safety, economy, and buildability. I demonstrate this by maintaining a deep, up-to-date working knowledge of the Eurocodes and Technical guidance. However, excellence goes beyond just meeting code; it’s about anticipating site realities and constraints. I proactively collaborate with temporary works coordinators and contractors early in the design phase to ensure that what looks perfect on a screen can be safely and efficiently constructed on-site.
So much has changed in the 50 years since Cundall was founded. What changes would you like to see in the next 50 years, and how do you think we'll get there?
The fundamental change I want to see is a shift to a completely circular built environment. We will move past just reducing carbon to achieving absolute zero-carbon and regenerative design, making structural retrofits and material reclamation the default rather than the exception. We’ll get there by creating digital material passports into every new structure today, to provide future generations with an asset bank of traceable, reusable structural elements.
What’s a myth about your role that you’d love to bust?
While engineering is historically a male-dominated field, my personal experience has been overwhelmingly positive. I have never felt marginalized or undervalued because of my gender; instead, I have consistently experienced a culture of mutual respect. Whether collaborating with wider design consultants or managing challenges with the site team, my voice has always been heard, my expertise valued, and my role as an integral part of the team fully supported.
What’s one experience or milestone in your career that shaped who you are today?
For me, the standout highlight has to be collaborating with incredibly talented and technically strong colleagues. Working alongside colleagues who possess that level of expertise not only elevates the quality of our projects but constantly pushes me to develop my own engineering skills.