Krishma Kapoor
Project manager, Rider Levett Bucknall
Expertise
Construction, Project ManagementLocation
United KingdomMy highlights
Working on Crossrail West
Working on M4 smart motorway schemes
Becoming an Incorporated Engineer (IEng)
A day in my life
My day begins early, reviewing project plans and schedules to ensure everything is on track.
I then head to site, where I oversee construction activities, and coordinate with contractors and engineers to address any issues that come up.
Safety is a top priority, so I conduct inspections and ensure compliance with all regulations.
I have meetings with stakeholders and clients where I update them on project progress, discuss potential challenges, and outline next steps.
I also spend time on budgeting and resource allocation, ensuring that everything aligns with the project’s goals and deadlines.
In the afternoon, I review engineering designs and make necessary adjustments to make them more efficient.
By the end of the day, I work on reports, update project documentation, and plan for the next day.
My role demands constant adaptability, problem-solving, and a focus on delivering high-quality infrastructure solutions.
Whether in design, construction, or project management, civil engineering provides a fulfilling career path with the potential to make a lasting difference in communities and the environment.
Which individual project or person inspired you to become a civil engineer?
The construction of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence.
Particularly, its iconic dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi – it's a marvel of Renaissance engineering. It represents the perfect fusion of art, science, and innovation.
Brunelleschi's ability to build such a massive, self-supporting dome without traditional scaffolding amazed me. He used novel techniques and materials.
This inspired me to pursue a career where I could apply creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise to build structures that push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Much like Brunelleschi did centuries ago.
We asked Krishma…
I would recommend a career in civil engineering because…
A career in civil engineering is ideal for those who are passionate about shaping the world around them through innovative and impactful projects.
It offers the opportunity to work on essential infrastructure that enhances daily life, such as transportation systems, bridges, and smart motorways.
With a strong foundation in problem-solving and technical skills, civil engineers play a crucial role in creating sustainable and efficient solutions that meet the needs of growing populations.
The field is dynamic, offering diverse challenges and the satisfaction of seeing tangible results from your work.
Whether in design, construction, or project management, civil engineering provides a fulfilling career path with the potential to make a lasting difference in communities and the environment.
Complete this phrase: I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also…
I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also a problem-solver, a visionary, and a lifelong learner. I’m dedicated to shaping the world through innovative structural and infrastructure projects.
What’s the biggest/most complex thing you’ve made out of Lego?
One of the biggest and most complex Lego creations I’ve made was a detailed replica of the Eiffel Tower.
It was a massive project with over 3,400 pieces, standing almost four feet tall when completed.
The build was intricate, needing careful attention to the structural integrity and a lot of patience to get the angles and details just right.
It took me about two weeks of working in the evenings and on weekends, totalling around 30 hours of dedicated time.
What about being a civil engineer gets you out of bed each morning?
The opportunity to have a tangible, lasting impact on the world around me.
Knowing that the work I do helps to build safer, more efficient communities and transforms ideas into reality fuels my passion.
Each day brings new challenges to solve.
What’s one great thing that you love about civil engineering that you didn’t know until you started working in the industry?
The incredible sense of teamwork and collaboration involved in every project.
While I knew civil engineering required technical skills and problem-solving, I didn’t realise just how much it depends on working closely with diverse teams.
Architects, contractors, environmental specialists, and clients – they all bring their unique perspectives to the table.
This collaborative environment not only makes the work more dynamic and rewarding but also leads to more innovative and well-rounded solutions.
Which civil engineering project (past or present) do you wish you’d worked on?
The Panama Canal.
This monumental engineering project, completed in 1914, revolutionised global trade by connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
The sheer scale, complexity, and innovative techniques involved in overcoming significant challenges are awe-inspiring.
They had to manage the terrain, deal with diseases, and create the massive lock system, to name a few.
This project pushed the boundaries of engineering knowledge and capabilities.
Name one civil engineering myth you’d like to bust.
The idea that civil engineering is purely about building structures and roads.
Civil covers a broad range of disciplines, including environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, and urban planning.
It involves designing and managing systems that address complex issues like water supply, waste management, and sustainable development.
The field is dynamic and diverse. Engineers work on projects that enhance public health, protect natural resources, and improve quality of life – far beyond just building physical structures.
Has civil engineering helped you overcome any personal hurdles/difficulties?
The problem-solving skills and resilience required in the field have translated into valuable life lessons. They’ve given me greater confidence and the ability to adapt.
For instance, navigating complex project challenges has taught me how to approach difficulties with a systematic and solutions-oriented mindset.
Also, the collaborative nature of civil engineering has enhanced my ability to work effectively with diverse teams, building strong interpersonal skills.
What motivated you to become professionally qualified?
The desire to achieve formal recognition for my expertise and dedication to the field.
Getting professionally qualified not only validates my technical skills and experience but also enhances my credibility and career prospects.
It reflects a commitment to maintaining high standards, sticking to ethical practices, and contributing to the advancement of engineering.
This qualification is a testament to my continuous learning and professional development.
What does being professionally qualified with the ICE mean for your career?
Being professionally qualified with the ICE shows a high level of competence, expertise, and commitment to the civil engineering profession.
It means that I’ve met rigorous standards for technical knowledge, experience, and ethical practice.
This qualification opens doors to career opportunities, enhancing my credibility with clients and employers.
What’s the best thing about being professionally qualified with the ICE?
The recognition it brings. It distinguishes me in the industry, enhancing my credibility and career opportunities.
It provides access to a global network of professionals, opportunities for continuous learning, and a platform to influence industry standards and practices.
How did the ICE and your employer support you to become professionally qualified?
The ICE and my employer provided invaluable support throughout my journey to becoming professionally qualified.
The ICE offered structured guidance and resources, including:
- access to specialised training;
- professional development workshops; and
- a clear pathway to achieving the necessary qualifications.
Their mentorship programmes and networking opportunities connected me with experienced professionals who shared insights and advice.
My employer played a crucial role by offering practical experience and supporting my learning through on-the-job projects that aligned with the ICE's competency requirements.
They gave me time to study and prepare, as well as feedback and evaluations that helped me refine my skills.
Together, the ICE’s framework and my employer’s practical support enabled my professional growth and successful qualification.
What do you value most about being an ICE member?
The opportunity to be part of a respected professional community dedicated to advancing civil engineering.
Membership provides access to a wealth of resources, including industry-leading knowledge, best practices, and continuous professional development opportunities.
The ability to network with peers and mentors, share experiences, and collaborate on innovative projects is invaluable.
How has being a member helped your career?
Being a member of the ICE has significantly advanced my career.
It’s lent credibility to my professional profile, which has been key in securing key projects and career advancements.
Krishma's career path
Opting for an apprenticeship as a pathway to work training and education offered a hands-on, practical approach to building a career.
Unlike traditional academic routes, apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing you to earn while you learn.
This method provides real-world experience and immediate application of skills, often leading to industry-recognised qualifications.
It’s a dynamic way to enter fields like civil engineering, where practical experience is highly valued.
Major projects
- Crossrail west
- M4 smart motorway
- Noele Gordon (East Ham)
- Liverpool Street Station refurbishment
- Eastbourne College Sports Centre
- Kingston Community School
- BT headquarters office refurbishment
