In conversation with Lauren Sneddon

“ I see civil engineers as the problem solvers and fixers“

- Lauren Sneddon

In honour of International Women in Engineering Day (INWED), we have a series of eye-opening interviews with inspiring women currently working in the engineering sector.  

Image: Lauren Sneddon

Lauren Sneddon is a 29-year-old Civil Engineer from Scotland. She is currently working on one of the most demanding and exciting transport projects in Europe: High Speed 2 (HS2). Making such a positive contribution toward such a prestigious sector, plus challenging the age-old image of civil engineering is extremely motivating to Lauren.

What project are you working on now, and what’s your role?

I initially entered into construction through the Oil and Gas sector, working on both green and brown field projects; from new subsea tie backs to upgrading offshore platforms for additional drilling rigs to capture newly discovered oil fields. I then moved onto to more traditional civil engineering projects which included the Queensferry Crossing - the longest three-tower, cable stayed bridge in the world. I am now working on the HS2 rail infrastructure project.

I’m currently the Delivery Lead, which means that I am responsible for the management of a large and diverse team of civil engineering staff and specialist technical ecological resource. My team is responsible for undertaking ecological mitigation and diverting utilities over a 5km strip of the alignment – this is just one small project, and one of the many hundreds that make up the entirety of the HS2 project.

A long, linear project such as HS2 requires a significant element of ecology and infrastructure mitigation prior to the main construction works beginning.

What does an average day at work look like?

Every day is different, dependent upon where we are in the programme of works. It’s all based around basic project management processes but there is an ever-moving feast of challenges related to requirements, resources, supply chain, and technical issues etc.

Because the programme of works on each individual project changes every day, every day presents new and unique challenges, which keeps life interesting and the work environment fresh.

How did you get into the industry?

My ultimate goal was to be an architect – my father was the driving force behind that dream. However, I had no desire to commit to 7 years of studying before qualifying. I then decided to look into teaching, which I believed would be the next best thing in contributing to the sector but after one year I soon realised that I was not, in any way, cut out for a lifetime of teaching.

I developed a love for engineering which I seemed to unknowingly covet and I transferred to an engineering degree, with a primary focus to specialise in civil engineering.

I think I value my role more now than if it had been my first choice in life. I see civil engineers as the problem solvers and fixers of concepts that are put in front of them by architects. Engineers ensure that the concept is implemented to a high quality, and achieved to budget, on time and most importantly with everyone going home safe at the end of the day.

It is said that civil engineers have saved more lives than all the doctors in history, through the development of clean water and sanitation systems. I feel proud to work in such a sector.

What do you love about the construction industry?

The diversity of challenges, the ever-moving and ever-changing work landscape, and the wide range of people that I interact with on a daily basis. There are very few roles that I believe to have daily interaction with the government, council officials, public interest groups, and specialists from every field imaginable.

What is the biggest misconception about construction?

There are a lot… It’s a role primarily for men, with poor working conditions, long hours etc.

I know that it is not perfect but it’s changing - quickly. There is a huge amount of opportunity. I have found that there is an appetite within the industry for change that recognises the benefit of a diverse workforce with different ideas, management techniques and approaches to problem solving.

What’s the funniest thing that’s happened at work?

If you know me then you will know there are too many to name. Every day is a laugh. I need a positive, can-do, upbeat attitude to motivate me.

I tend to enjoy merrily bobbing around the office with no shoes on, and sliding along the corridors when I’m alone – or believe so. One day I may or may not have underestimated my sliding power and went into a glass wall which very fortunately, was designed with a high safety factor on its impact load. Due to glass being see-through it was something for the whole office to spectate on. Not my proudest safety moment but I’m sure my face stuck against the glass amused my colleagues.

If you could change anything about the industry what would it be?

The somewhat negative reputation that it has gained. There is such a huge range of opportunities for anyone with an interest in engineering. On site or in a design office, both are equally challenging and rewarding.

Also, there is a massive skills shortage, and a huge future work bank. It’s an area of massive opportunity. The industry is crying out for people with drive, new ideas and innovation. Go for it!

Would you recommend the construction industry to a young person, and why?

Yes, every time. Assuming they like problem solving, challenges and have a good work ethic.

There is opportunity, a huge scope of work, a global transfer of skills, opportunities for global travel, an ever-changing work place, a bewildering diversity of skills. Is that enough?