Education and qualifications:
Academically Qualified Person – HS&E MAP for Managers and Professionals, University of Derby
Physibel Training - BISCO, SOLIDO & TRISCO (incl. Trisco2D), University of Derby
MSc Facade Engineering, UWE Bristol: University of West England
BA (Joint Hons) Architectural Design & Property Development, University of Derby
BTEC National Diploma in Construction, Sixth Form College, Stoke on Trent

Job title:
Technical Compliance Manager

Employer:
Alumet

What/who inspired you to become an engineer? 
I have always been fascinated by architecture and how structures shape our daily lives. My passion for problem-solving and innovation started at Mazowe Boys High School, a boarding school in Zimbabwe. One of my subjects was technical graphics, which involved drawing on a wooden drawing board, using pencils and a T-square. This experience inspired me to pursue engineering, and seeing the impact of problem-solving motivated me to specialise in façade engineering.

Please describe your role within the workplace. 
As a Technical Compliance Manager, I make sure that projects align with technical, safety and quality standards. My role involves technical audits, scope validation and stakeholder collaboration to make the most out of design integrity. I also mentor teams to enhance technical competency.

What is the most challenging aspect of your role? 
Making sure that technical solutions remain both innovative and compliant. It requires balancing multiple priorities, including cost, sustainability and buildability, while aligning different stakeholders towards a common engineering solution.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your role? 
I enjoy problem-solving, especially optimising façade systems to enhance performance and safety. Mentoring engineers, architects, designers, and students, and contributing to the development of industry professionals is also fulfilling. Seeing a project from concept to completion, and knowing it meets the highest technical and compliance standards, is especially rewarding.

What is the biggest career highlight or achievement you’re most proud of? 
A defining achievement was contributing to the development of competency under the Building Safety Act. This work will play a crucial role in improving industry compliance. Additionally, mentoring MSc Façade Engineering students was a big career highlight.

Why did you choose to become professionally registered? 
Professional registration shows technical competence and ethical commitment worldwide. Achieving CEng status shows my dedication to engineering excellence, demonstrates expertise in compliance, and shows my technical leadership and innovation. It also strengthens my ability to influence industry standards and drive improvements in safety and best practices.

I would recommend professional registration because… 
It enhances credibility, career progression and industry recognition. Professional registration ensures continuous learning and adherence to high standards and increases trust with clients and relevant stakeholders. It also provides access to a network of experts, opening opportunities to contribute to engineering advancements and shape the future of our profession.

What career advice would you give to your younger self? 
Please prioritise continuous learning and seek mentorship. Make the most of leadership opportunities, engage with professional bodies as soon as possible, and advocate for diversity in engineering. Most importantly, always maintain integrity and uphold engineering ethics at every stage. Thank you!

Do you participate in mentoring, volunteering, or membership in other engineering groups? 
I volunteer for the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) as a Benevolent Fund Almoner. I help CIBSE members, former members and their dependents who are in need, whether that is through sickness, bereavement or financial hardship. I provide valuable advice and make recommendations to the Fund. In some cases where financial support is not required, personal contact from the Almoner can still be of great benefit. I also mentor less experienced designers within and outside my company, guiding their professional development and fostering growth within the façade engineering community. I always emphasise the importance of staying current through conferences, seminars, industry events, and specialised training.

Do you identify as disabled, or as a member of a minority or under-represented group? Would you like to comment on what impact or influence you feel this has had on your career? 
I have experienced both challenges and opportunities in a field where minority representation is limited. Early in my career, I had to navigate biases and a lack of visible role models, which strengthened my resilience and commitment to excellence. These experiences have fuelled my passion for mentoring and advocating for diversity, equity and inclusion in engineering.