Spotlight – Harry Hawkins

Why did you choose a career in Structural Engineering?

Maths was my favourite subject in school so I wanted a career that could utilise this. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when applying for university but after attending an engineering open day, my mind was made up. I liked the variability of civil engineering at university, and I enjoyed the structural modules the most, so I thought it was the natural next step.

What has been the most memorable moment for you?

After just graduating from my Masters, seeing my email signature as a graduate structural engineer with my qualification next to my name.

What has been the most challenging part?

Keeping on top of all the aspects of being a structural engineer: balancing multiple projects at once, responding to project-related queries, planning workload, meeting tight deadlines, it never stops!

What do you like most about your job?

The fact I am constantly learning new things, every single day. There is so much to learn in structural engineering, I feel I will never stop learning throughout my career.

What’s the best career lesson you’ve learned so far?

Soft skills are just as important as technical skills!

What’s your favourite structure in the world?

The Petronas Towers in Malaysia. Not only is it an impressive structure, it holds personal memories for me as I went up one of the towers last year during my travels. I remember taking a taxi from the airport into the centre of Kuala Lumpur and just noticing the sheer size and uniqueness of the building as we drove past!

And lastly, what is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in Structural Engineering?

Be prepared to juggle many different projects, tasks and client demands whilst also learning new things every day! It’s a fast-paced industry but very rewarding too.