Andrew Walker

We asked Andrew…

I would recommend a career in civil or infrastructure engineering because…

Civil engineering allows you to make a visible difference to people's lives.

Every day, millions of people rely on infrastructure without thinking about the teams who design, inspect, maintain and improve it.

It's a profession that combines problem-solving, teamwork, technology and practical skills.

Whether you're interested in working outdoors, managing projects, using digital technology or helping communities, there's a place for you in engineering.

Complete this phrase: I’m a civil or infrastructure engineer/technician, but I’m also…

I’m an engineering technician, but I’m also a mentor, STEM Ambassador, former police officer, business owner and passionate advocate for lifelong learning.

Name one civil or infrastructure engineering myth you’d like to bust.

Many people believe engineering is only for those who excel at mathematics.

While technical knowledge is important, successful engineers also need communication skills, teamwork, creativity, practical thinking and the ability to solve real-world problems.

How does your role contribute to addressing climate change?

Maintaining infrastructure effectively is an important part of sustainability.

By identifying defects early and targeting maintenance activities appropriately, we can extend asset life, reduce waste and make better use of resources.

I have also supported drainage and environmental improvement schemes that help the network become more resilient to extreme weather events associated with climate change.

How does your role contribute to making the industry more diverse and inclusive?

As an active STEM Ambassador, I regularly engage with schools and community groups across the region.

I enjoy showing young people that engineering is a career open to everyone, regardless of their background, age or previous experience.

I often share my own career journey because it demonstrates that there is no single pathway into engineering and that lifelong learning can create new opportunities at any stage of life.

What role does digital technology play in your job?

Digital technology has transformed the way highway infrastructure is managed.

In my role, it enables accurate asset inspections, real-time data collection and improved decision-making.

I have worked closely with software developers to design, test and implement digital mapping solutions that have improved efficiency and data integrity across the network.

What motivated you to become professionally qualified? 

My motivation for becoming professionally qualified was to challenge myself and gain formal recognition for the engineering knowledge and experience I had developed throughout my career.

Having come into the industry through a practical, hands-on route rather than a traditional academic pathway, I wanted to demonstrate that professional competence can be achieved through dedication, learning and experience.

Achieving EngTech registration was a proud milestone.

It validated the work I had put into developing my skills and reinforced my belief that professional development should be a continuous journey.

I also wanted to show colleagues and young people considering engineering careers that there are many routes into the profession and that professional registration is an achievable and worthwhile goal.

What does being professionally qualified with the ICE mean for your career? 

Being professionally qualified with the ICE has been one of the proudest achievements of my engineering career.

It gave formal recognition to the experience and expertise I had built over many years and validated my progression from highways operative to inspector.

The qualification has strengthened my professional standing and given me greater confidence when working with engineers, contractors and stakeholders across the industry.

It has also helped me become a more effective mentor and STEM Ambassador, as I can demonstrate to others that professional registration is an achievable goal regardless of your career background.

For me, it represents a commitment to professionalism, competence and continuous improvement.

How did the ICE and your employer support you to become professionally qualified? 

Sir Robert McAlpine played a significant role in supporting my professional development by providing opportunities to broaden my experience, take on greater responsibilities and continuously develop my technical knowledge.

The varied nature of my work on the A19 contract allowed me to build the evidence and competence required for Engineering Technician registration.

The ICE supported me by providing a clear professional framework and guidance throughout the registration process.

The standards set by the ICE helped me reflect on my experience and recognise the value of the skills I had developed throughout my career. 

What do you value most about being an ICE member? 

The networking opportunities, professional resources and engagement with other engineers have broadened my knowledge and strengthened my confidence in my role.

Membership has also complemented my work as a STEM Ambassador, enabling me to inspire others and promote the many different pathways into engineering.

Being a member of the ICE makes me proud to be part of a profession that delivers lasting benefits to society and future generations.

What’s the biggest/most complex thing you’ve made out of Lego?

The most complex Lego model I've built was the Star Wars Millennium Falcon.

It took me around two weeks to complete and required plenty of patience, attention to detail and a methodical approach.

Looking back, there are quite a few similarities between building a complex Lego model and working in engineering – both involve following plans, solving problems and making sure all the pieces fit together correctly.

Where do you get your engineering inspiration?

Much of my engineering inspiration comes from the people I work with every day.

Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to have the support of an excellent mentor whose guidance, knowledge and encouragement have helped shape my professional development.

I'm also inspired by my colleagues across the highways and infrastructure industry.

Their experience, commitment to safety, problem-solving abilities and willingness to share knowledge continually motivate me to learn and improve.

Seeing the positive impact that engineering professionals have on communities and road users reinforces my passion for the profession.