Institution news

60 seconds with...Trish Kilsby, Lubrizol Highways

Institution News Team

Trish shares her excitement at contributing to the IMechE's upcoming Net Zero Construction seminar,

For further information on the seminar and to register, please visit the event website.

Please could you briefly explain your role, involvement, and experience with regards to the Construction industry and this event?

Trish Kilsby (TK): Global Technology Development Manager – Driveline. For the past 5 years I’ve developed and formulated the additive chemistry used in lubricants for Farm Tractor and Construction equipment. The right additive chemistry in tribological contacts or in thermal environments enables better efficiency and durability.

What, in your experience, has been the biggest roadblock for the industry over the past 2-3 years?

TK: The uncertain future of construction equipment. Many technology innovations are being developed and tested. However, the infrastructure and raw material uncertainty is delaying these developments.

What key topics are you excited to discuss at this year's conference?

TK: I am always excited to learn more about the construction industry. Often, we can become siloed in our specialisms, it is good to take a step back and look at the bigger issues facing the industry, and how each piece of innovation, no matter how small, adds to solving the challenge of a net zero future. This year’s conference has an excellent combination of government future thinking, equipment manufacturer innovation and alternative fuel sources. All these areas need to work together meet our net zero targets.

What would you say are the areas of innovation driving decarbonisation across the UK construction industry?

TK: Innovation in engine technology using alternative fuel sources. Understanding the technical challenges and using existing manufacturing and supply chains will enable the UK to move quicker towards low emissions.

Who else are you most interested in hearing from on the programme?

TK: I’m interested to learn about the emission challenges faced during building construction. While I focus on ensuring equipment operates to its full potential, its fascinating to understand where the other opportunities are to reduced emissions.

Why is it important for engineers to join this conference?

TK: As we stand up to face the challenges of a net zero future, engineers will need to understand the technical and practical challenges ahead. Working together with other specialisms and understanding the infrastructure, economic and geopolitical impact of their work will enable future sooner.

The Net-Zero Construction 2023 seminar will take place on 12 October 2023 in London

Engineers are at the heart of the UK’s construction industry and therefore at the heart of its decarbonisation programmes. The seminar will showcase the role of engineers in supporting the construction sector’s decarbonisation efforts.

Now more than ever, the engineering community must come together to ensure net zero construction becomes a reality.

For further information on the seminar and to register, please visit the event website.

Share:

Read more related articles

Professional Engineering magazine

Professional Engineering app

  • Industry features and content
  • Engineering and Institution news
  • News and features exclusive to app users

Download our Professional Engineering app

Professional Engineering newsletter

A weekly round-up of the most popular and topical stories featured on our website, so you won't miss anything

Subscribe to Professional Engineering newsletter

Opt into your industry sector newsletter

Related articles