CGL is committed to encouraging young people into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers and to support the local community. So, this month two of CGL’s STEM ambassadors – Jo Strange, Technical Director and Dan Matthews, Regional Director (and former pupil of King Edwards School, an ‘Old Wit’) – visited King Edward’s School near Godalming to give an overview of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering.
CGL firstly demonstrated how important it is to have a technical understanding of topography, soils and underlying strata when planning infrastructure by showing the pupils examples of what happens when things go wrong. The presentation highlighted that through careful geotechnical analysis of the ground prior to construction such events can be avoided in the future. In addition, CGL demonstrated value engineering in real life situations, such as taking an innovative approach based on our local understanding of the chalk which is underneath Guildford in Surrey, which simplified the construction and reduced costs for the local Radisson Hotel project. This project was also voted Best Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental UK Project over £1M at the GE Awards in 2011.
CGL also presented Geoenvironmental engineering to the students and how vital it is to carefully assess risks from potential contamination sources such as industrial uses, landfills and leaks from tanks. It was emphasised that a strong understanding of the potential sources of contamination and how they could affect the future development and environmental receptors is a crucial part of space and sustainable development.
Ann Hill, Senior Teacher and Head of Science at King Edwards said “It was wonderful to have CGL present at the school to enthuse the pupils. It is moments like this that can change the direction of a pupil’s future.”
This is one of a series of events with local schools to help students plan their future careers, and highlight how the construction industry can be inspirational and has opportunities for students with a range of interests and skills.
