This week, we’re giving you the opportunity to get to know one of our engineers a bit better. Whether you’re someone who works in the industry, a prospective student or just someone with a keen interest in engineering, we’re hoping to offer a telling insight into what life as an engineer is really like.
We sat down with Lyons O’Neill’s Head of Civil Engineering Niall Greenan to chat about what drew him to the profession and what the job involves.
When did you join Lyons O’Neill and where were you before?
I joined Lyons O’Neill in December 2017 as Head of Civil Engineering and I previously worked with Heyne Tillett Steel as a Senior Civil Engineer.
What do you enjoy most about engineering and why did you choose this career?
I really enjoyed physics at school, especially fluid mechanics & water hydraulics. The challenge of solving complex problems was always the attraction to pursuing a career in this specialist area of Civil Engineering.
What advice would you give to a young person considering a career in engineering?
I would advise getting as much experience in different disciplines of engineering early in your career. This will become invaluable to you later in your career when making key decisions in a multi-disciplinary environment as you will be a more rounded engineer with better judgement.
What has been your favourite Lyons O’Neill project to work on and why?
I have really enjoyed working on the proposed new SEMH School in Hailsham, East Sussex. We were brought on board at the very early stages as the Civil & Structural Engineers for the project. As an engineer, this project offers everything as it covers so many disciplines: civil, structural, environmental, geotechnical, highways, mechanical, electrical and utilities.