Gavin Clifford

Name: Gavin Neil Clifford
Title: Engineer
Division: Geotechnical
Location: Wetherby Based
Degree: MA hons Geography + Mres Civil Engineering, Dundee University

A typical day in the Wetherby office covers many areas of contract requirements, such as checking drawings to discussing contractual details with contractors. I normally get involved with contractual requirements that are standard to the job (methods statements and health and safety plans), which gives me the opportunity to understand the process of how works are to be carried out. KGE undertakes many contracts that are required to change the sequence of construction. This provides an excellent opportunity to have in-depth knowledge, as the majority of the time I get to visit site and aid in the establishment and understanding of what is to be achieved.
I also get involved with labor meetings and contract programs, which provides me with an understanding of operations and the importance. KGE commands a large and skilled workforce that are vital to its continual growth, so these meetings help to minimise disruption to the movement and workings of labor or plant, so that neither is idle.

I am often asked to go to site to aid the contract manager, acting as their eyes and ears on site, as well as undertaking tasks such as Surveying, Quality & Assurance, Setting out and Borehole monitoring. On site, general duties involve ensuring that the works are undertaken correctly and safely, and liaising closely with the contractor / client. The duties on site are not exhaustive as situations always arise that you as an engineer have to adapt to quickly and effectively. However there is always a team of managers at head office that can assist you to overcome your problems.

Working for Keller has given me the chance to travel across country while earning a fair living. The contracts that I have been involved in have been challenging and most of all fun. The men on site are a hardened work force that know their job well and are keen to pass on their knowledge when interest is shown. The atmosphere in the office and on site is professional and patient. The chance to develop with Keller is an interesting option as there are many avenues to follow. All these point have made the job a fun and rewarding opportunity, enabling me to adapt into Keller during my first year of employment.