GHD engineer named one of Australia’s most inspiring

GHD mechanical engineer Andrew Bagnall has been named one of Australia’s Most Inspiring Young Engineers for 2010.

The award is part of the 2010 Year of Engineering Leadership, an initiative of Engineers Australia, aimed at celebrating the achievements of motivated, inspirational engineers who display technical excellence, creativity or innovation, exceptional leadership or mentorship, or have made an outstanding contribution to the profession or society.

Bagnall, who works in GHD’s Newcastle operations, was selected for his work in growing the practice and integrating ecologically sustainable design (ESD) and energy-efficiency concepts into building design.

On receiving his award at the Engineering Leadership Conference Dinner on Thursday 6 May 2010 in Brisbane, Bagnall said, “ “Five years ago I began to pursue an ESD consulting role at GHD and have since developed a substantial team of specialists. Back then it was the exception to include ESD as a design service on a typical building project, yet now it is the norm.

“We have experienced a shift in focus from our clients justifying green initiatives on a purely economic basis to a feeling that it is now imperative,”  Bagnall added.

Andrew’s philosophy on achieving sustainable outcomes extends beyond his client-focused work. Even though demand for his work is high, Andrew prioritises time for community pursuits.

“It is important that engineering graduates’ knowledge of ESD is expanded. To this end, I have enjoyed being a guest lecturer at universities and actively participate in attracting new graduates to GHD.

“I have also been lucky enough to mentor aspiring Indigenous engineers through the annual Engineering Aid Indigenous Summer School. Working with a large group of year 11 Indigenous students was rewarding for me and, more importantly, beneficial for the students,” Bagnall added.