Andrew Martin
Name: Andrew Martin
Job: Graduate engineer
Area of work:Rail
Employer: Amey
Qualifications: MEng civil engineering with construction management, University of Leeds
I was attracted to civil engineering for its combination of theory, common sense, problem solving and management. I stumbled across the rail sector but I am really pleased that I did. Rail provides all the elements of civil engineering with the added challenge of carrying out works with minimal disruption to train services.
Designing stations
I aid the delivery of designs: daily tasks include the production of method statements, designs and programmes, and reviewing on-site safety and methodology. I also liaise with clients and attend regular meetings. I’m based in a design office but I spend time on site too, undertaking surveys and structural inspections, and inspecting construction works in progress. Most of the projects I work on are stations, due to the experience I’ve had to date. I recently returned from a 12-month secondment to Irish Rail, acting as design support on site during the construction of two new stations in Dublin, which are both supported by concrete beams that span up to 35 metres.
High-pressure shifts
I have witnessed some exciting projects being implemented. I was on site for a high-pressure night shift while bridges were lifted into place, and another where a rail-mounted crane removed a disused footbridge. I have done development work in the early stages of projects, and it’s hugely satisfying to see the project come through to completion.
Top tips
Approach problems with common sense. The best engineers I have come across are not those who are entrenched in numbers, codes and calculations but those who appreciate all the factors of successful project implementation and the impact their design and decision-making can have on that.
Be patient and ensure that whichever job you take is the right one for your personality. That includes the role, location, office environment and the organisation for which you will be working.