Today is National Engineering Day, the theme is “Engineering Role Models”. We asked our Geotechnical Engineering Team “Who do you think is an inspirational engineer?”:
Elliot Harris: Andrew Hawes
Andrew Hawes took a lot of time to help me build my engineering knowledge and confidence with projects. He encouraged me to think outside of the box utilising new techniques and products instead of sticking to standard practices that were not always the best solution.
Geoffrey Stevenson: Joseph Bazalgette
Bazalgette is most well-known for the design and construction of London’s underground sewer system. He famously insisted that the sewer pipes be twice as large as was necessary, to accommodate potential expansion of both the sewer network and the city above. His forethought and future-oriented approach to engineering is something I think is vital in a modern engineer, and something that everyone should strive to consider in everyday life.
Sami Hoq: Isambard Kingdom Brunel
Studying as an undergrad in Bristol I naturally came to know of the significance of the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Brunel showcased his engineering prowess during a competition for the design of the bridge connecting Bristol and North Somerset. At 24 years old, Brunel won the competition, beating the likes of Thomas Telford (the first president of the Institute of Civil Engineers). This was Brunel’s first major contract, and he described the bridge as “my first child, my darling”.