Gordon Nimmons

Name: Gordon Nimmons
Title: Geotechnical engineer
Division: Foundations
Location: Seconded to Belfast
Degree: MEng Civil Engineering, Queen’s University

At university I enjoyed both geotechnics and structures but was reasonably sure that the geotechnical industry was right for me. The materials worked with are very variable so alongside relevant engineering skills geotechnics requires a greater need for experience and judgement. This is why geotechnical engineering appealed to me. A placement with my current employer confirmed this and getting my boots dirty with some early site experience was valuable when starting my graduate career.

I design and estimate ground improvement and piling solutions and then provide ongoing technical assistance during the contract. We work on a range of projects: from highway embankments to electric substations and from single dwellings to large, high profile commercial buildings. At any time I could be working on project feasibilities and budgets for consulting engineers or tendering for a project to a main contractor. I also go out on site for technical and progress meetings or to conduct trial pits.

I recently landed my largest order to date: a new furniture store in Belfast. It has taken a year of work as the ground conditions were complicated, but we came up with an innovative solution that won the contract.