Cliff Shepherd
senior project engineer, RMD Kwikform
Expertise
Design, Project ManagementLocation
United KingdomMy highlights
Designing temporary works for Canary Wharf underground station
Working on Thames Tideway and HS2 Curzon St. station
Living and working overseas for RMD in the United States for 6 years
A day in my life
Usually, I’m designing temporary works for a range of structures but primarily the approach bridge decks for Curzon St. Station.
I’m providing drawings, calculations and material schedules for my designs.
I’m so proud of our industry and what we’ve achieved over several hundred years.
Which individual project or person inspired you to become a civil engineer?
The M5 widening between junction 4 and 9 way back in the early 90s. That’s when I knew this job was for me.
We asked Cliff…
I would recommend a career in civil engineering because…
You’re able to leave a legacy for current and future generations.
I’m so proud of our industry and what we’ve achieved over several hundred years.
Having contributed to public works such as hospitals or sewage systems satisfies me enormously!
What’s the biggest/most complex thing you’ve made out of Lego? How long did it take you?
A Jurassic Park jeep for my grandson – he’s only 3 years old so not very complex at all!
Complete this phrase: I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also…
...a leader and demonstrator of what can be achieved with a dream and effort.
What about being a civil engineer gets you out of bed each morning?
Building stuff!
What’s one great thing that you love about civil engineering that you didn’t know until you started working in the industry?
That my maths skills prove that what I design works. I thought that was someone else’s job!
Which civil engineering project (past or present) do you wish you’d worked on?
Silvertown Link. I know the joiners on that site so I know the standard of workmanship will be outstanding.
Name one civil engineering myth you’d like to bust.
That it’s only for boys!
Has civil engineering helped you overcome any personal hurdles/difficulties?
Not really, but I guess it has made me more confident and given me a purpose in life outside of my family who are also very proud of what I do.
Anything else?
Very enthusiastic about the engineers of tomorrow.
I sit on an employers’ group at Thomas Telford UTC in Wolverhampton and enjoy mentoring students and giving guest lectures.
Also, I played social ruby for 20 years and sang in a band for 10 of those years!
Cliff's career path
Started with RMD with no formal qualifications. I learned on the job and as I gained experience, I worked all over the world.
Only recently gained my BEng and professional membership with the ICE.
Major projects
- Thames Tideway
- HS2 Curzon St.
