John Shanks MCIWEM C.WEM IEng

How long have you been a member of CIWEM?

Since January 2018.

What does being a member of CIWEM mean to you?

A level of professional standards I expect from myself which reflects in the quality of my work and environmental considerations of my projects.

What advice would you give to anyone considering starting out on the application process?

Record everything and see it as a process of meeting the competence standards. Have a go at responding to the mandatory competencies and set that as a baseline. Try and build a network of people also going for membership. Keep contact with the network and your mentors.

How do you think your membership/professional registration will support you in your career?

The networking and CPD offered as a member of CIWEM has already been helpful to my career.

Please describe your job role and day to day activities that your job entails?

I manage much of the Capital Programme on Clean Water Infrastructure delivering new and upgraded parts of the distribution and raw water networks. I am responsible for overseeing Client duties under CDM regulations 2015, the management of the NEC Contracts and all internal reporting such as financial and programme. My technical responsibilities stretch to looking for carbon savings on temporary works techniques and material selection as well as questioning sustainability of new assets.

What inspired you towards a career in this sector?

I'm a numbers type of person and always had an interest in building a better environment. I guess delivering sustainable and efficient water networks as a Project Manager was a natural calling.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Project Managing the construction of a sewer for a new development in the north of Glasgow. It was only 367m of pipe, but it had everything. Three watercourses and a railway to cross under, four 36" trunk mains to cross over, saturated ground, contaminated land, overhead power lines, public and business liaison, invasive species and a Victorian asset to connect to. A very challenging but enjoyable project to deliver.

What do you see as the biggest changes facing the sector over the next 10 years?

I can see more projects being trenchless as new technology and materials opens the way for this to be possible. There's an overall benefit to be enjoyed from trenchless techniques.

Correct as of July 2020.