Ravi Menon

Name: Ravi Menon
Job: Assistant engineer
Area of work: Geotechnical
Employer: Jacobs Engineering UK Ltd
Qualifications: BE civil engineering, University of Mysore, India, 2001; MSc geotechnical engineering and management, University of Birmingham, 2006

I chose to pursue civil engineering when I realised the crucial role that infrastructure plays in the development of a community. My interest in geotechnics was sparked during my first degree, when I attended lectures with geotechnical case studies related to two huge ongoing projects – Konkan Railway and Delhi Metro.

Providing alternative solutions

I’m involved in a number of projects for which I provide and optimise design solutions, present reports and supervise foundation testing. My current responsibilities include the analysis and design of earthworks and pile foundations for gantries on the M25 J1b–J3 widening scheme. I was very pleased when my suggestion for an alternative approach for the pile design on the embankments was accepted. I’m also doing sheet pile analysis and design for the Barking Barrier regeneration scheme. Again, I provided an alternative solution that uses light-weight fill for the flood protection system design. I also spend time on site supervising pile load testing on the Belvedere EFW roject.

A universal demand

The demand for geotechnics is universal – it’s needed for all structures so there’s
scope to obtain experience in many projects and in various countries. Since soil is not a manmade material, geotechnics involves assumptions, so the risks are high. A conservative approach can increase the cost and a liberal approach can increase the risks, so you have to find a balance.