Print This Page
11 May 2010
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.
Mr 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, Mr
Bagnall said, “To be acknowledged at a national level for my work
with green buildings is an exciting achievement. Innovation and new
technologies continue to make green buildings more viable, and many
of our clients have already realised the economic and operational
benefits of investing in green initiatives.”
Motivated by ethical and sustainable outcomes, Mr
Bagnall’s work on green buildings has inspired many within the
industry to consider sustainability as a priority in their daily
work. “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.” Mr Bagnall added.
Tasos Katopodis, GHD Operating Centre Manager for
Newcastle said, “This recognition is duly awarded to Andrew for his
drive in developing our services in this niche market. His
dedication to improving understanding and adoption of ESD is
inspiring. Andrew’s ability to continually apply new methods to
benefit the triple bottom line for clients in the built environment
sector and within GHD is highly commendable.”
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,” Mr Bagnall added.
For more information please contact
Kane Dowsett