Civil & Structural Engineer

Career Path

Following A-Levels (which I didn’t do very well in!), I was a little lost. Didn’t know which path to follow.

I was always practical, and I enjoyed being outdoors. I worked as a construction labourer for a year. In hindsight, this was the best thing I could have done. It taught me the value of hard work. I learned so much about construction, and I gained life skills, that I still use today.

After a year on site, I felt an urge to study, and to learn more about construction. I felt that my career calling twinned construction with something creative, with a focus on problem solving. I love solving problems.

My father was a brilliant carpenter, and boat builder. My uncle was a Civil Engineer, who worked all over the world on tunnels, dams and nuclear power stations. Both inspired me, and I realised that Civil and Structural Engineering could be the career for me.

My first job in consultancy, was as a Junior Technician. I was employed through the old YT Scheme (I think I was paid £35 per week!). I can remember that my mileage pay was often more than my wage!

I would visit sites to undertake investigations, to measure buildings, and then produce sketch drawings. I would support engineers and experienced staff.

In 1997 I applied for, and secured a role with Norwich City Council, in the City Engineers Department. This was a brilliant training experience. The City Engineers Department was a real asset to the city. I worked in all departments, from Highways, Traffic, Estates, and settling in Structures. I realised that I loved structural engineering. However, the broad experience I gained from working in the other departments, would ultimately make me a better engineer.

I progressed at the City Engineers Department, to Technical Officer and Senior Technical Officer. I had staff working for me, and I became trusted and respected.

In 2002 the City Engineers Department became Technical Services, and there was a shift from true technical excellence and project delivery to management and process. I found this demotivating and decided that I would like to experience the private sector.

So, in 2003 I moved to Canham Consulting. At the time, Canham’s were a very small consultant, with 6 staff working out of a terraced house in Norwich.

Fast forward to 2025 and Canham’s employed 45 staff. Still based in Norwich, but with an office in London and Cambridge. The firm delivers projects all over the UK and has a culture centred on development and professional progress. In the 22 years I worked at Canham’s, I progressed from Structural Engineer to Director, and finally Managing Director. I led the business for a number of years and feel incredibly proud of the firm it is today.

In 2025 I stepped away from my full-time role at Canham’s and set up my own consultancy. I remain supportive of Canham’s and provide guidance to the business when required, in addition to pursuing other interests.

Construction has provided me with variety, challenge and a huge sense of achievement – I can think of no better industry to pursue a career in, the opportunities are endless.

Current Role

Consultant.

Salary Range

Varies significantly, depending on role, responsibility, qualifications and experience.

Salaries of £100k+ can be achieved, for those at the top of their profession.

Typical Day

Every day is different!

I could be visiting a contractor on site, to resolve a challenge. Perhaps a meeting with an Architect, to consider the appropriate structural form for a new building. I could be visiting a client, who wishes to make some alterations to their property. The role of a Civil and Structural Engineer is diverse, and any day will combine creative thinking, design, sketching, communication and teamwork.

Things I wish I’d known

The Degree Apprenticeship programme that exists today is a game changer for young people. When I started, this wasn’t available. Not that this was a blocker, as the old ONC/HNC was accredited at the time with the Engineering Council. However, the opportunity to study a degree through an apprenticeship route would have been hugely appealing.