What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering?
I have always been fascinated with engineering from an early age. As I developed my understanding of engineering and mechanisms, I started working on motorbikes and cars as a hobby.
After leaving school I embarked on a career at sea, as a Marine Engineer in the Merchant Navy. This was challenging due to limited resources onboard to maintain and repair components that were critical to maintaining seaworthiness.
In 2012 I began my career as an Engineer Surveyor in the insurance industry. This was a varied role where the application of engineering principles, identifying faults and defects, and technical report writing are core aspects.
Tell us about your current role and your journey to getting this job role?
In 2016 I was promoted to Principal Engineer; I am responsible for the oversight of technical standards and offer advice for all aspects of the lifting and handling discipline. I support the business and clients on technical matters which include advising on risk assessment and method statements, examination procedures and review, author and deliver industry guidance.
I also undertake thorough examinations of lifting and pressure equipment, including large, heavy complex mobile cranes and giant ring cranes.
I support the Safety Assessment Federation (SAFed), the trade association which represents the UK independent engineering testing, inspection and certification industry and act as a focal point for all issues and concerns relating to statutory inspection and certification. I am currently the Chairman of Technical Committee 2 – Machinery Lift and Crane.
In 2022 I completed my Mechanical Engineering degree at Teesside University. I obtained a first-class honours award and the IMechE Best Project Award for my dissertation.
Why did you want to become a Chartered Engineer/Fellow with the Institution?
I obtained my Chartered Engineer registration with the IMechE via the Career Learning Assessment route, and shortly after this I applied for and was awarded Fellowship.
Professional registration offers global recognition of theoretical and practical knowledge and experience. This has benefitted my skills, experience, development and autonomy. During my Professional Review Interview the Interview Facilitator recommended I apply for Fellowship, which is the highest level of membership within the IMechE, it demonstrates my commitment and contribution to the engineering profession.
What is your overall business aim and strategy?
My overall business aim is to support and develop our workforce, whilst improving safety and reducing risk to our clients and ensuring compliance to relevant regulations. I also provide professional advice to clients on technical matters, whilst developing technical documentation and standards for the inspection industry.
How important are engineers and your technical staff to your business/sector?
Engineers are vital within the inspection industry sector where knowledge, expertise, experience and competence are all required and utilised to ensure equipment is safe.
Senior engineers (subject matter experts) are crucial in conveying their knowledge and experience to other engineers, as they have a greater understanding of safety critical components. It is imperative to promote the importance of the engineering profession to the next generation of engineers.
How does professional registration benefit your company, staff, sector?
Professional Registration demonstrates the level at which an individual operates and is also globally recognised. It is also beneficial for networking, peer support and career progression.
HSB have a national field work force of professional engineers with a wide range of experience, skills and knowledge. Professional Registration demonstrates their level of autonomy based on experience and knowledge and is used through annual appraisals for their Continuous Professional Development (CPD).
How do you work with the IMechE, how long?
I joined the IMechE as a student whilst studying for my Mechanical Engineering degree. Since obtaining CEng, I have supported the IMechE by interviewing candidates who wish to become Chartered through Professional Review Interviews.
I actively support colleagues, peers and associates through their Professional Registration, including IEng, CEng and Fellowship. I also encourage their CPD through IMechE’s online seminars, lectures and further reading via the IMechE library.
What are the most important benefits of working with the IMechE?
I am a member of the local IMechE Teesside group which supports my networking opportunities. I regularly attend online webinars and use the IMechE library to undertake research.
I have the benefit of being a member of a globally recognised institution which demonstrates my level of professionalism and commitment.
Which Institution benefits have helped your business the most and how?
Many engineers wish to obtain Professional Registration, but they are not always aware of the many other benefits on offer. This includes excellent resources such as the Professional Engineering magazine, library, webinars, lectures, seminars, training, and development.
Find out more about becoming a Fellow