Josh’s hard work and dedication have really paid off, and this achievement is a brilliant reflection of his commitment to developing his skills while continuing to make a positive impact within the team.
Based in our Peterborough office, Josh has been working at Waldeck since 2023, where at the age of 25 we welcomed him as a Structural Technician.
Josh is currently studying a degree apprenticeship in Civil Engineering at Nottingham Trent University and is due to finish in 2031.
We caught up with Josh to hear more about their successful journey so far:
Hi Josh! What has your education journey been like so far?
It was at college, where I studied a Level 3 in Engineering, that I discovered my initial interest in technical drawing and design. The highlight of my time there was my final project, where I designed, detailed, and manufactured a functioning metal detector. My enjoyment of the creative design process led me to pursue a career path in technical drawing.
It was through this that I found my way into civil engineering, opting to pursue a career as a technician immediately after college, rather than consider University.
Over the last seven years of my career, I’ve been primarily focused on advancing my knowledge of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and modelling software, Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes, as well as becoming conversant with all the core construction materials, construction methodologies, and common civil engineering practices.
I’ve now embarked on an exciting new step of my education journey, as I’ve recently begun studying a degree in Civil Engineering.
What are some of the most interesting projects you’ve worked on?
Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work on a wide array of interesting projects ranging from residential housing, schools, and retail centres to factories, bridges, and rail freight interchanges. Most recently, I’ve been busy supporting the design of a residential development in Sheffield, which comprises a mix of townhouses and a five-storey apartment block. The development is based on a brownfield site, positioned on a steep slope, and has presented numerous challenges in ensuring that the substructure is suitable for the existing ground conditions and that our design is fully coordinated with the wider design team’s packages.
Over the years, I’ve found that regardless of the project’s size and value, big or small, the most enjoyable aspect of any project is its unique challenges that lend to the creative process of finding solutions to the design brief.
What motivates you in your work?
Civil engineering stands as one of the core pillars of the built environment, spanning a broad range of projects from impressive mega-structures to the hugely necessary, often unnoticed infrastructure that supports our everyday lives. The work we do creates substantial value for our clients and wider society, and I enjoy contributing to this through thoughtful design that considers accuracy, constructability, health and safety, as well as the efficient and responsible use of natural resources.
Undoubtedly, the most rewarding aspect is seeing the project that I have had a hand in designing get built. A tangible asset that will exist for decades or possibly even centuries to come; a legacy of my efforts long after I am gone.
How does the company support your professional growth and development?
The company has been fantastic in supporting me in successfully undertaking my Technician Professional Review with the Institution of Civil Engineers, especially Peyman Band, my Supervising Civil Engineer and Lead Sponsor, for his committed support throughout the process. The feedback and encouragement I received on my application were absolutely invaluable and made a huge difference to my performance and confidence throughout. The support is available to all if required, and I can absolutely attest to that.
Furthermore, I am pleased to say Waldeck is now supporting me to study a BEng in Civil Engineering at Nottingham Trent University, through a Degree Apprenticeship programme, an amazing opportunity for which I am enormously privileged to have.
The company’s support for career development guarantees that we can provide the best possible service to our clients.
What are your career aspirations for the next five years?
Now that I’ve begun my degree, my aim over the next 5 years is to make the transition from technician to engineer, alongside progressing to Incorporated status with the ICE.
I am eager to learn more about structural analysis, detailed design, and the science behind the materials we use, so that one day I may undertake complete designs of structures myself. Perhaps most importantly, I hope to research further how I, as a future engineer, could have a greater influence on how our designs, processes, materials, and methods of construction utilise more sustainable solutions to minimise the impact on our environment.
What tips would you give to others starting out in industry?
Be curious, ask lots of questions, keep asking why. You’re not expected to know everything from the start but taking an active interest in all aspects of the projects you’re working on, having a structured personal development cycle, and getting exposed to a wide variety of projects will keep you on the right path.
No matter what you end up working on, or where, there are learning opportunities in everything you do; make the most of it. That will be the same throughout your entire career.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I like dance music and festivals. I’m also a licensed Skydiver and have enjoyed jumping out of planes quite a bit, although lately I’ve been busy painting and decorating my house more than anything, I think “enjoy” might be the wrong word though…
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