Charlotte

When considering University education, I wanted to be able to make a positive change in my work, this culminated in undertaking a Civil Engineering degree with a focus on Environmental engineering. My initial drive was to work in renewable energies, but this shifted as I moved into the work force when I saw the opportunity to affect real change on the ground.  

During my Civil Engineering degree, I was required to complete a placement in industry and I ended up at a Construction Company for the summer. I fell in love with Construction. The fast-paced nature, the problem solving, the wide variety of people I got to work with on a day-to-day basis and being outside for a large part of my day all lead to me staying with that company throughout my degree and beyond. After moving to the UK in 2019 I decided to go back into Construction delivery after a short stint in Project Management and have been working at STRABAG UK ever since.  

I started at STRABAG in January 2020 as a Section Engineer and was promoted in November 2020 to Sub-Agent. I am now working as an Agent on HS2 and delivering the Granby Terrace Bridge.  

This role involves leading a team of engineers to deliver a section of works. Currently, I am looking after the delivery of a Bridge and taking it from planning and reviewing the design to construction on site. The elements of the job which I contribute to and help to manage are the programme, sequencing of construction, quality, temporary works, cost and forecast and health and safety. A large part of the role is also management of a team which has been a steep learning curve but also it is very rewarding to see their development.  

I enjoy the challenges that come with Construction, there are so many factors to consider and interfaces which bring complex problems. I am constantly learning, every day is different and on a whole the job is fun! It is also very satisfying to see something you have planned physically come to life. The moment I get to walk over this bridge will be very exciting!  

Ultimately, the best thing about the job is the people you get to work with every day. There is a great comradery and team work to deliver a joint goal and it makes coming to work each day enjoyable!