Working on a site that’s in use has its particular difficulties. With up to 82,000 spectators visiting on match days, programming work around events and finishing on-time is really crucial. Structurally, the biggest challenge was installing two huge new video screens that hang from the existing roof. The screens and support steelwork were put up within the bowl, and each screen needed two cranes to lift it into place!
I plan to become chartered with ICE and am currently on a training scheme at work. It’s good to know that my employer recognises how important professional qualification is. It shows that you're a well-rounded engineer because it needs technical, commercial and legal knowledge. You also need an understanding of the health and safety and sustainability parts of your work.
I'm also a STEM Ambassador, which means I give talks in schools and at careers evenings. I introduce civil engineering to students – something I find really rewarding. I’ve also volunteered (for two years running) on ICE’s Big Bang Fair stand, which has been a lot of fun.
Civil engineering is a great profession, but many people don’t know much about the work we do. I think we need to do more to tell young people about the amazing variety of opportunities, and hopefully inspire them to go into engineering.