Supporting the next generation of geological leaders

GHD geologists have been building their field experience at a three-day intensive training camp in Mittagong, in the NSW Southern Highlands.

The inaugural camp is helping to bridge the gap between tertiary education and the practical knowledge required by early to mid-career geo-professionals in the civil infrastructure industry.

Andrew Barclay, Senior Technical Director – Engineering Geology, highlighted the industry’s recognition of the challenges faced by young geo-professionals. “We wanted to create an opportunity for our early professionals to receive face-to-face training in essential field skills through a combination of site and office-based activities,” he explained.

Thirteen geologists from our Australia, Philippines, and New Zealand offices recently participated in the camp, which took place in one of the state’s geological hotspots. They worked alongside GHD technical leaders to enhance their skills in data collection, processing, design analysis, and reporting.

Christopher Bennett, Geology Service Line Leader – APAC, said that opportunities like these provide a supportive environment for trainees to develop their practical skills.

“We designed a comprehensive program that included background theory and desktop studies before the camp. During the camp, participants engaged in field geological descriptions, site plans and sections, landslide site reconnaissance, and mapping exercises. They also visited Sixty Foot Falls for rock cutting exercises and Mount Gibraltar for quarry face mapping and rockfall hazard assessments.”

The trainees consolidated their learning through classroom exercises and will continue to build on their understanding in follow-up sessions.

Christopher added that these initiatives are strengthening GHD’s Geology Service Line and reinforcing our position as an industry leader in engineering geology.

“This program is helping to build capacity and collaboration across the Service Line and is one of the innovative ways GHD is supporting our technical people through learning and development opportunities,” he said.

Here's what some of the participants had to say:

“One of the greatest lessons you can gain is learning directly from seasoned technical professionals and in the field. The training was focused, it was in-depth, it was well-organised, and well-prepared. The trainers were incredible!” Kenny Lyne Tabayocyoc, Cebu, Philippines

“An invaluable opportunity to have access to so many technical specialists dedicating their time to teaching.” Catherine Peryer, Melbourne

“This opportunity made me aware of the multiple branches of geology and geotechnical work that exist. I learnt so much in that respect, but also found that there is so much I want to be a part of as well.” Odile Pusenjak, Sydney

“An excellent three days connecting people from operating centers across APAC. University style field camp with real industry application, mentored by technical directors who turn out to be big kids with big knowledge.” Mitchell Gerdes, Sydney

“We are incredibly lucky to have highly experienced, industry leading professionals who are A) extremely generous with their time, and B) enthusiastic about growing and developing the next generation of geology professionals! Attending this course should be a career progression prerequisite!” Luke Agnew, Auckland, New Zealand

About GHD

GHD is a leading professional services company operating in the global markets of water, energy and resources, environment, property and buildings, and transportation. Committed to a vision to make water, energy, and communities sustainable for generations to come, GHD delivers advisory, digital, engineering, architecture, environmental and construction solutions to public and private sector clients. Established in 1928 and privately owned by its people, GHD’s network of 12,000+ professionals is connected across 160 offices located on five continents.