At CaSE, we celebrate the creative minds driving innovation across our teams, and today, we’re highlighting Alex Currie, Digital Construction Lead | NSW, VIC and SA, who continues to push the boundaries of digital storytelling in construction.

Her work on the Cuttagee Bridge renewal tender design is a great example of how powerful visuals can transform complex engineering ideas into compelling narratives.

Renders for Tenders

To support a recent submission, Alex, in collaboration with Adrian Benoy and Jack Ashby produced a suite of detailed renders that brought the project vision to life. By clearly communicating design intent and showcasing key elements visually, these assets helped strengthen client confidence and made the tender stand out in a competitive field.

Did You Know?

Before cinema existed, Eadweard Muybridge captured motion using a series of still images, proving in 1878 that all four hooves of a galloping horse leave the ground at once! His innovation laid the foundation for animation and motion pictures.

What’s the connection? At CaSE, we use similar principles to visualise movement, simulate complexity, and bring static designs to life, helping clients and stakeholders understand how a project will function in the real world.

Simulation in Your Browser

Tools like SimScale are revolutionising how we work. This cloud-based simulation platform allows engineers to run advanced analyses like wind flow, drainage, and structural stress, directly from a browser. It's accessible, efficient, and a game-changer for making early design decisions.

Have a try by visiting SimScale's website.

Alex’s passion for visual communication is not just about aesthetics, it’s about clarity, confidence, and delivering better project outcomes from day one.

Discover how our digital construction experts are transforming project delivery.

Australia’s regional and rural communities have long faced challenges stemming from the urban-rural divide, with limited access to services and opportunities commonly found in major cities.

However, a significant transformation is now underway, focusing on infrastructure development to close this gap and ignite economic growth in these crucial areas. This shift includes improvements in transportation networks, renewable energy projects, water infrastructure, and digital connectivity.

Daniel Taylor, Director - Regional, CaSE Civil & Structural Engineering, sheds light on the strategies and innovations driving the future of rural and regional Australia. Taylor emphasises that these infrastructure projects will significantly enhance the quality of life in these regions, unlocking new opportunities for communities that have often been overlooked.

This infrastructure-driven change marks the dawn of a new era for regional Australia, offering services and possibilities that were once exclusive to urban centres. The initiative represents a nationwide commitment to revitalising regional areas, ensuring that every community can thrive.

Enhancing transportation networks creates lifelines of connectivity

The expansion and improvement of transportation networks are pivotal to Australia's efforts to bridge the divide. Enhanced road, rail, and air connections are more than just conveniences; they are vital to integrating regional Australia into the national and global community. Infrastructure Australia’s 2023 Infrastructure Market Capacity report highlights the unprecedented level of investment flowing into regional areas, particularly in New South Wales, South Australia, and Queensland.

According to the report, some regions are set to see a 75% annual increase in infrastructure investment, with certain areas experiencing a doubling of investment within a year. This significant rise in construction activity speaks to the immense potential of infrastructure projects in shaping Australia's future. Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) like the New England REZ and transformative initiatives like the Inland Rail are designed to serve as economic catalysts, creating jobs and fostering economic growth in regional communities.

Underscoring the importance of these developments;

“These projects are not just about building; they represent a fundamental shift towards empowering our regional communities. We’re creating opportunities for skilled professionals to contribute to significant local projects, redefining what it means to ‘build big.’ This initiative challenges the traditional pull towards urban centres, fostering sustainable growth in regional areas.”

Daniel Taylor

By investing in transportation infrastructure, Australia is not only building more connected communities but also reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development. Improved connectivity will open doors for local businesses, agriculture, and tourism, allowing regional Australia to contribute more significantly to national economic resilience.

Digital connectivity is the gateway to modern services

One of the most transformative aspects of regional development lies in enhancing digital connectivity. Broadband and mobile internet services act as gateways to essential services like education, healthcare, and business opportunities. The Australian Government’s Better Connectivity Plan, which allocates over $1.1 billion to improving telecommunications in rural and regional areas, reflects the transformative power of digital infrastructure.

Taylor highlights how critical digital connectivity is to modern infrastructure projects: “Digital connectivity enables advanced technologies like drones for land surveying and real-time data analytics for large-scale project oversight. Robust internet services are essential to integrating these innovations into daily operations, driving efficiency and smarter development in regional Australia.”

This connectivity is crucial to bridging the gap between urban and rural settings, making infrastructure development more inclusive and efficient. Enhanced digital access will empower regional communities to innovate, attract investment, and participate in the global economy.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of sustainable development

Community involvement is key to ensuring that infrastructure projects meet the actual needs of regional Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in his recent address at the Queensland Media Club, emphasised the importance of involving every community in shaping the nation’s future. For infrastructure development to be truly effective, local voices must be heard in the planning and decision-making processes.

Taylor echoes this sentiment, stressing that community engagement is essential for successful infrastructure projects. “It’s not just about consultation; it’s about collaboration. By involving local communities, creating jobs, and incorporating cultural heritage into our projects, we’re building more than infrastructure—we’re fostering stronger, more unified regions,” he says.

This collaborative approach ensures that infrastructure projects are not only physically transformative but also socially and culturally significant, enhancing community identity and cohesion.

The future landscape involves addressing workforce challenges

While the future of regional Australia looks promising, workforce shortages present a major challenge. Infrastructure Australia’s 2023 report highlights the critical need for skilled labour, particularly in sectors crucial to infrastructure development. Shortages of engineers, tradespeople, and labourers pose risks to the timely and cost-effective delivery of these projects.

Taylor brings a fresh perspective to this issue, focusing on attracting professional talent to regional areas. “To ensure sustainable growth, regional Australia must appeal to professional couples,” he asserts, noting that creating job opportunities for diverse skill sets is crucial to retaining talent in these areas.

Addressing these workforce challenges will require a national infrastructure workforce strategy that focuses on education, training, and incentives to keep talent in regional Australia. By doing so, regional communities can continue to benefit from infrastructure investments and build resilience for the future.

A balanced and prosperous future

Australia’s investment in infrastructure is laying the groundwork for a more connected and inclusive future. By focusing on transportation, renewable energy, digital connectivity, and water infrastructure, the country is working to narrow the urban-rural divide and create a more balanced, resilient nation. As these initiatives continue to unfold, they promise to transform regional areas into thriving communities, driving Australia toward a prosperous and united future.

In recent years at CaSE Civil and Structural Engineering, a profound transformation in the engineering landscape has been observed. This shift towards a people-centric approach is not only redefining daily work but is actively sculpting the future of engineering. This change promises to impact every aspect of the field, from project execution to the broader societal implications of the work.

Engineers' curiosity has always been the driving force behind solving complex infrastructure challenges, significantly contributing to technological advancements and modern lifestyles. However, as seasoned professionals retire, a talent gap in both numbers and expertise is emerging. This transition phase highlights the crucial synergy between experienced and new engineers, blending invaluable insights with fresh innovations.

The Power of a People-Centric Approach

With the world rapidly changing and increasing demands for infrastructural development, there is a growing recognition of the need to put people at the centre of projects. This involves considering human needs and experiences in design and execution, bridging the gap between experienced and novice engineers, and fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation.

As automation reshapes job roles, it is vital to remember that the greatest asset is people. This belief has led CaSE Civil and Structural Engineering to harness the full potential of the team, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and innovation. The shift from traditional 2D plans to dynamic 3D and 4D models acts as ‘digital rehearsals’ for projects, enhancing understanding and decision-making.

Collaborative Journey in Every Project Phase

Every project phase, from ideation to delivery, is a collaborative journey. It is about creating a space where everyone, from the team to clients, feels valued and empowered. This collaborative approach is rooted in two primary principles:

1. Employee Empowerment: Employees are innovators, not just contributors. They meet project requirements with creativity and efficiency.
2. Client Collaboration: Clients are integral partners. This perspective fosters robust, enduring collaborations.

Adaptability and Innovation as the Key to Success

Adopting a flexible blueprint allows for rapid adjustments to market and environmental shifts. Promoting unconventional thinking is essential for tackling complex challenges, leading to unique solutions that meet both client and industry standards.

Integrating Sustainability and Progressive Practices

Integrating sustainability into projects and pioneering progressive workplace practices enhances satisfaction and retention. Close collaboration with clients ensures solutions meet immediate needs and align with long-term goals.

The shift to a people-centric approach has multiple benefits: better collaboration, higher employee satisfaction, increased retention, and notably, better project outcomes. At CaSE Civil and Structural Engineering, this approach has sparked innovation, helping to develop new solutions and stay ahead in the industry. Embracing this transformation has enabled effective management of staff shortages while delivering demanding projects.

Conclusion

The future of engineering lies in a balanced approach, where technology complements a deep understanding and focus on people. Empowering each individual to contribute their best is crucial, for engineering is not just about constructing structures; it's about building a better world for people.

At CaSE Civil and Structural Engineering, understanding how a people-centric approach influences professional journeys is essential.

How are you adapting to the integration of human-centered design with technological innovation?

Check out our Careers page if you’d like to work for a company with a people-centric approach.

Unveiling Innovations and Celebrating Excellence

CaSE Civil and Structural Engineering recently hosted our Inaugural Summer Networking Events—a series of ShowCaSE events in London, Glasgow, and Birmingham. These events highlighted not only our insights, project experience, and innovations in the construction industry but also the invaluable connections and knowledge-sharing among industry professionals.

“Thank you for a lovely evening, met great people with understanding, technical ability, skills, experiences and knowledge. Highly recommend anyone who is London/Central Scotland to pop down and have a chat with these guys.

They specialise in temporary works, constructability & methodology reviews, enabling digital tools onsite, commercial, data reporting & project management services and much more.”

~ From a happy attendee

We are thrilled to have been selected as Finalists in the 2024 NSW Business Awards (Sydney) across multiple categories.

• Outstanding Business Leader – Florian Dieterle, Principal Engineers, CaSE & Pike Design
• Excellence in Small Business – CaSE & Pike Design
• Employer of Choice – CaSE Contractors
• Excellence in Micro Business – CaSE Traffic & Transport

Congratulations to all our employees across these teams. Your commitment to delivering quality outcomes for your clients is being recognised and celebrated.

Thank you to FundFindrs for their expertise and support throughout the nomination process.

Digital Construction is revolutionising infrastructure development.  

Digital engineering expert, Matt Kehoe, General Manager, Digital Construction, talks us through some of the significant ways Digital Construction is revolutionising infrastructure development during his interview with Mike Loder from Ticker News. 

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Digital Construction continues to reduce the consumption of natural resources such as steel, concrete, and quarry products; lower the impacts of construction on local communities; mitigate financial and safety risks; and create real and diverse opportunities for our regional areas. 

To learn more about how CaSE can transform your future projects through Digital Construction, view our capabilities here.

Our Digital Construction offering was officially launched with a showCaSE in Dubai last month.

CaSE Digital Construction is our new service, combining construction expertise with digital technology, we provide tailored solutions to address evolving construction challenges.

We incorporate digital tools across the entire project lifecycle, our team of dedicated Digital Construction specialists is committed to providing bespoke solutions across four key practice areas:

· Visualisation. Utilising cutting-edge 3D modelling techniques to create lifelike videos that vividly communicate project methodologies.

· BIM & Digital Engineering. Leveraging Building Information Modelling (BIM) and digital engineering to enhance project understanding and streamline workflow efficiencies.

· Construction Safety. Implementing digital tools to mitigate risks and ensure the highest standards of safety across construction sites.

· Site Digitisation. Offering remote inspection capabilities through site digitisation, facilitating seamless monitoring and management of project progress.

CaSE Digital Construction is dedicated to transforming how we address our clients' design and infrastructure challenges. Our solutions not only mitigate risks and increase productivity but also empower informed decision-making before on-site implementations.

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Matthew Kehoe, General Manager of Digital Construction, emphasises:

"At CaSE, we're committed to driving innovation in the construction sector. Our Digital Construction service represents a paradigm shift, offering unparalleled opportunities for our clients to enhance project understanding, mitigate risks, and elevate productivity. With our expertise and cutting-edge tools, we're paving the way for a smarter, more efficient future in infrastructure delivery."

Meet the team: 

• Matthew Kehoe, General Manager – Team Lead
• Luis Diaz - Visual Design Lead
• Alex Currie - Visual Animator
• Clement Cazi - Senior BIM Engineer

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In this interview, we sit down with Daiana Perfoll, a Senior Design Engineer at CaSE Brazil. In this conversation, we explore the elements that shape a successful engineering career. Daiana shares her experiences and perspectives on the industry and highlights the factors that contribute to professional growth in the world of structural and design engineering, and her personal journey at CaSE.

1. Can you highlight specific aspects of the "CaSE culture" that you find most conducive to your professional growth and job satisfaction?

The opportunity to attend industry events. For example, the culture to encourage and sponsor our participation in bridge and structural conferences is valuable at CaSE. This adds value to us as professionals as we can network with experts from the national and international markets. Also, this is a great way to update our knowledge regarding bridge construction techniques, standards, materials, and products to improve the quality of our designs and provide a collaborative case study for researchers in the engineering industry.

2. In the construction of the Mane Garrincha Stadium, you delivered a significant steel assembly in a tight timeframe. Could you share how you managed this and what strategies you employed to ensure the project's success?

The success of this project goes far beyond experienced designers, planners and builders. In reality, it has a deep relation with each individual’s passion for engineering, and the feeling of honour and gratitude for being able to be part of a project of such magnitude. This project was a work of art that started as a dream and that I woke up every day motivated to join forces with others to make it come true.

As an engineer, my dream is to be remembered for the awesome bridges and stadiums I design and build. So, my strategy is pretty simple: I make sure to always join people who love engineering, dream big, and put in the hard work. It's not just about the technical stuff; it's about creating something incredible together with a team that shares the same passion and excitement.

3. Considering your experience with the Mane Garrincha Stadium and the engagement of CaSE in various Australian projects, do you envision applying your expertise to potential infrastructural projects associated with the upcoming 2032 Olympics in Brisbane? How might your skills align with the opportunities presented by this significant sporting event?

Given my past involvement in projects like the Mane Garrincha Stadium and the extensive experience of the CaSE team in global projects, the prospect of applying my expertise to infrastructural projects linked to the upcoming 2032 Olympics in Brisbane would be genuinely exciting. The idea of contributing to the development of sports infrastructure in Australia at any scale, especially considering my background as a former athlete, adds is one I consider with great enthusiasm.

Reflecting on my journey, I've significantly honed my skills during my four years at CaSE, particularly in the analysis and dimensioning of both temporary and permanent structures. This growth positions me well to tackle the intricate demands of constructing a stadium roof. I am confident that our team of engineers and designers could effectively navigate the complexity of planning the construction sequence. With a blend of past experiences and newfound capabilities, I am eager to bring my skills to the forefront and contribute meaningfully to the success of such a significant sporting event.

4. You have proficiency in various project development, management, and design software. What software tools do you find most valuable in your day-to-day work?

Nowadays, as a structural design engineer, the software I use most for the analysis and design of steel, concrete and wood materials is Tekla Structure Design and Tedds from Trimble, for geotechnical projects we use Wallap and Slope software from Geosolve. One of the other things I enjoy about working at CaSE is that the team and leaders are always looking at new ways to innovate and provide clients with solutions powered by next technology. I am excited by what is coming next for CaSE in this area.

5. What has been your favourite project while working for CaSE, and what aspects of that project made it stand out for you?

My favourite project at CaSE was the renovation of the Union Chain suspension bridge, an 18th-century structure connecting Scotland to England. This project held special significance for me, not only due to the technical challenges reminiscent of those I faced early in my career as a structural engineer with CaSE but also because it resonated with my initial experiences as a civil engineer and my undergraduate work on the Hercílio Luz Bridge in Florianopolis, Brazil. The project reflects my growth and expertise, showcasing how I have overcome challenges like those encountered earlier in my career.

Daiana's career shows the importance of passion, innovation, and a supportive work environment in driving professional success within the engineering industry. Daiana’s work at CaSE exemplifies our people being our strongest pillar. If you are interested in joining the CaSE team, visit our careers page, and discover the available opportunities around the world.

Celebrating an impressive milestone, we sit down with Mariano Serrano, our Senior Construction Engineer, as he marks 20 years of a dedicated international career. Having contributed significantly to iconic projects such as the West Gate Tunnel Project in Melbourne and the Queensferry Crossing in Scotland, Mariano's journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence.

1 - When and how did you join CaSE?

I joined CaSE in August 2021. I moved to Melbourne from the UK in January 2020 and resumed my contact with Jonathan Davies, whom I have known since our time at the Queensferry Crossing Project in Scotland. I learnt about CaSE from Jonathan, and we stayed in touch. Once CaSE opened an office in Melbourne, an opportunity to join the team became available.

2 - What do you like working at CaSE and what sets us apart in your opinion? 

I value that most of us have worked with somebody from the team before joining CaSE, which makes onboarding and adapting to the team’s culture much easier. I love that we can work with different teams based in different countries around the world. We aren't geographically constrained which means there is an opportunity to work on challenging and exciting projects around the globe. 

A lot of experience has been gathered over the years by the staff members at CaSE and we have a wide network of contacts between us all which again means we have access to some of the world's most interesting infrastructure projects.

A lot of my CaSE colleagues come from a variety of different types of construction project backgrounds. So, we bring on-the-ground experience to all the different services we offer.

3 - Your journey with our team has taken you from Australia to the UK. It seems like there's a great deal of flexibility for team members to work on projects around the world. Could you speak to the opportunities and advantages of being part of a team that operates internationally?

The first obvious advantage is that I had the chance to move from one country to another keeping continuity within the same company, and getting involved in different projects no matter if they were in Australia, the UK, or any other country.

Despite the distance and the time difference, our connected strategy means that the projects we work on are delivered with a combined effort from members from various teams around the globe. This provides a more diverse approach to the delivery of the scopes allowing each of us to learn something new through the process.

4 - How has the flexibility to work on projects in different countries contributed to your professional growth and what do you value most about the global nature of our organisation?

The possibility of working in different countries has allowed me to grow professionally as each change of country has brought new challenges in different social contexts, a new way of working, new collaboration methods as well as problem resolution techniques.

I believe the challenge of stepping out of my comfort zone has helped me to grow personally and professionally.

5 - Having worked as an engineer in many countries, you've gained a range of international experiences. How do you think working in different cultural and professional environments has influenced your approach to engineering, problem-solving, and collaboration?

My international experience has given me the chance to appreciate different cultures, ways of life and work. I have become more adaptable and receptive to ideas and proposals from others. It has been a great experience in terms of making new relationships and connections and learning new languages, although my Spanish accent will always be there in all of them.

Having to deal with new circumstances in each country, I have developed a better approach to facing problems and how to try to solve them, both on a personal and professional front. The fact that I had to deal with completely new issues for me and had no choice but to seek help and advice from local people has helped me to apply that need for collaboration while working with others.

6 - Recently, you were engaged on the West Gate Tunnel Project. How did you manage the complexities of coordinating with various stakeholders while ensuring effective project delivery?

The West Gate Tunnel is a complex project with many technical challenges, and it has been my first experience working on a major project within a busy urban environment.

My strategy to deal with the multiple stakeholders involved has been to always maintain open and transparent communication and to view the stakeholders as part of the team and the solution, rather than ‘the ones to be disrupted’. The success of the project is as important to the construction joint venture as it is for the stakeholders involved in the project or simply affected by the works.

We established meeting regimes adjusting the frequency required with each stakeholder depending on the imminency of the works in the different areas. We tried to clearly explain the disruptions and what we needed from the stakeholders to minimise impact, ensuring program satisfaction. Great credit is to be given to the installation team as the program was tight and they are delivering extremely well.

7 - Over the past two decades, you've been involved in numerous large-scale projects around the world. Could you share with us which project stands out as your favourite, and what makes it particularly memorable or rewarding for you?

I have been lucky enough to work on a few major projects and each one of them has a particular significance, professionally and personally. The N25 Waterford Bypass in Ireland was my first work experience outside of Spain and a project where I built relationships that I still hold today. The NA30 Project in Montreal marked a significant step up on the project scale for me even further away from home, and the most recent West Gate Tunnel Project in Melbourne is a stand out project for me in terms of scale and complexity, and has been a unique opportunity to get to know Australia.

However, the Queensferry Crossing Project in Scotland stays on top of my list as it is a combination of all the above, and it is an incredible structure next to two already significant existing structures. The scale of the project was impressive, and it brought together people from around the globe, as the companies involved in the design and construction of the project were from different countries. On the personal front, Edinburgh is such a great city to live in and it saw us growing up as a family.

8 - Could you tell us about your future career plans and how you envision furthering your career in this new chapter?

I returned to the UK a few months ago and I am in this new chapter of my career. I am aiming to grow outside of the delivery of a project, which has been my path so far. I see myself becoming more involved in the early stage of a project during the pre-construction phase and also participating in developing our UK business.

Inspired to join a dynamic team working on major projects worldwide, like Mariano? Explore opportunities on our careers page and become part of a global force shaping the future of infrastructure.

Marking the 3rd anniversary of the partnership between CaSE and Pike Design, we sit down with Barry Pike, an expert in the construction industry with over 45 years of experience. Barry's professional journey offers an expert perspective view of the construction and design sector in Australia. His in-depth understanding of the industry's evolution, combined with his firsthand experiences and forward-thinking vision, provides highly valuable insights. In addition to his collaborative working attitude as well as his mentoring of our younger generation of Temporary Works Design Engineers, we're set to explore his professional narrative, focusing on the expertise and wisdom he has attained throughout his career.

1. Reflecting on the 3-year partnership with CaSE, what have been the key highlights and achievements during this period?  

My experience in partnership with CaSE has been filled with many highlights. Given my 32 years of owning and directing my own business, working in collaboration with CaSE was a new concept for me. However, I was ready for a change, and from the beginning, the choice to join forces with CaSE was tactical, centred around a joint effort involving the whole team. Our team is working very well together and has formed a strong relationship, it has definitely been a great contributor to our success.

There have been many achievements throughout this partnership, but notably, winning the design of temporary works for large bridge projects globally stands out. Our team has also grown significantly, with the addition of many highly qualified professionals, each bringing individual experience to the table.

2. With over 45 years of experience, how have you seen the industry evolve over the years? What are the significant changes or trends that stand out to you? 

I've seen big changes over the years within the industry. One of the most significant shifts I've observed is the scale of projects. They have become substantially larger over the years. Adapting to this is important to ensure CaSE and Pike Design can take on any project that is offered to us. Major infrastructure projects require different skillsets, and we are constantly adapting our methods and strategies to be able to fulfill them. 

Another notable change is construction projects shifting to a design and construct structure. This requires a more collaborative and holistic approach, where the responsibility for both designing and building lies with one entity. By working with this model, we've been able to improve project coordination, reduce the overall timeline, and ensure greater consistency in the quality of the final output. 

3. Can you share a project from the partnership with CaSE that you found particularly special and why?  

The involvement in the Surface and Civil Alignment Works (SCAW) project, for the Sydney Metro Developments was definitely a big highlight for me. In this project, we're seeing the application of several CaSE & Pike Designs’. 

It's particularly rewarding to see concepts I've developed over the years being used in this key infrastructure development for Sydney Metro, combining past experience with current design challenges.

4. Looking ahead, what do you see as the future trends and challenges, and how do you anticipate adapting your approach to continue delivering successful outcomes? 

A trend now is digitisation, which can be very helpful in visualisation of situations. The challenge is to “keep it real” – on construction projects there is always so much physical work to be done on site. This needs to be appreciated to achieve successful temporary works designs. My approach has been to simplify wherever possible. A complicated procedure in design rarely leads to an efficient process on site.

5. As an industry legend, what advice would you give to young professionals, especially in the context of evolving technologies and project management practices regarding Temporary Works?  

Engaging with experienced professionals and the site personnel is so valuable. If there's something you're unsure about, don't hesitate to ask questions. It's crucial to observe your designs in action on site, and even when they prove successful, aim to simplify, and improve for the next project. Talk to the site guys using the design, they will soon tell you where any problems lie or where it could be more efficient. Always seek to learn and innovate.

Barry Pike's insights from his extensive career in construction and design, highlight a successful integration of experience and innovation. Over the past three years, his partnership with CaSE Design has led to significant achievements and we appreciate the years of experience that Barry brings to us. Barry's emphasis on adapting to industry evolution, while maintaining simplicity in design, underscores the combined strength of CaSE and Pike Design in facing future challenges. Barry’s expertise is a clear indication of the power of strategic partnerships in driving industry advancements.

The CaSE UK team recently attended the Bridge Expo Scotland 2023 in Glasgow. The event was held over two days at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) in Glasgow, in the shadow of the Finnieston Crane and the “Clyde Arc” Bridge, a local landmark.

The expo showcased expertise from specialist contractors in bridge construction and restoration, as well as suppliers in the fields, including several CaSE clients in the UK, underlining its importance as a hub for networking and business development.

The first day was opened with a keynote speech by Fiona Hyslop, the Scottish Minister of Transport, that demonstrated the Government's focus on sustainability and combating climate change in the journey to net zero through the use of new techniques and technologies. This resonates with our commitment to advancing into eco-friendly practices as part of the core of our strategy as we navigate future projects and initiatives.

There was also a full schedule of interesting talks across the two days demonstrating how multiple teams in the industry had dealt with various bridge-related problems. From the works to restore the Union Chain Bridge by Spencer Bridge Engineering, encompassing works on monitoring the condition of the Cleveland Bridge in Bath by WSP, and the construction and installation by SPMT of the new rail bridge at Ravenscraig by Network Rail. Other relevant talks were about how the Queensferry Crossing cables are being cleaned by Bear Scotland and the use of innovative new technology from VSL to reduce the incidence of icing in the winter.

Colin Henderson, our Managing Director in the UK, shared his excitement about the event and said: "The expo offered us the chance to liaise with other experts in the field, to understand how they are dealing with projects and what innovations they are using, as well as understand what new products and technologies are being brought into the market to better service projects, be that construction, maintenance, or repair".

CaSE will be taking part in the Bridges Expo in Coventry in March and the Bridges Expo in Glasgow in November of 2024, so come and say hello and see how our local and international team can assist you with your bridge projects.

We interviewed Dheavini Naicker on her experience as a Senior Project Engineer working on a Marine Project

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work on a Marine Project? We sat down with Dheavini Naicker, our Senior Project Engineer, who embraced the challenges and thrived in a dynamic environment. From her early passion for the environment to her unexpected discovery of engineering, Dhe's journey is an inspiring testament. Join us as she shares her experiences, accomplishments, and invaluable insights for aspiring female engineers interested in pursuing a career in the industry.

When and how did you realise you wanted to become an engineer?

I have always been interested in the environment and wanted a career that would balance indoor and outdoor work. For a long time, I envisioned becoming a Game Ranger, especially growing up in South Africa. When my family and I moved to Australia in 2005, I found myself placed in a graphics class, and that's when I first heard about engineering. In Grade 10, when I started studying Physics and Engineering, I knew this was something I wanted to pursue.

As a Senior Project Engineer at CaSE, you had the opportunity to work on a Marine Project. Could you describe your role, main responsibilities, and daily tasks during this project?

My role on this project included ensuring that all construction activities undertaken by the Jack Up Barge (JUB) barge crew were planned, materials were procured and delivered to the site, and marine logistics were in place for materials delivery to the barge, usually via tug and floating barge. I also handled lift planning, including approvals for the tower crane on the JUB, and the positioning of the JUB. The positioning involved various marine logistical elements and marine engineering principles, all of which were new to me but presented an exciting challenge.

Being a female engineer on board was sometimes challenging, as I was often the only woman on board. I found that I had to work hard to earn the respect and trust of the crew. My role required me to work closely with the Supervisor to ensure that all activities proceeded as smoothly as possible, given the typical challenges in construction. Going through the planning process with the Supervisor helped us forge a closer relationship, and we always had each other's backs.

How did you prepare yourself for working in a demanding and challenging offshore environment like a barge?

Every morning, we would arrive on-site around 5:15 a.m. for our Engineers and Supervisors meeting at 5:30 a.m. Despite not being a morning person, the breathtaking sunrises on the way to work or before our meeting helped me start the day with an appreciation for the environment, we were working in. It's not often that your office door opens to the most beautiful view of the ocean. Another critical aspect of adapting to this environment was understanding that everyone on board had more experience than I did. Treating everyone with the respect they deserved helped me gain their respect in return.

Could you share a memorable experience or accomplishment that you've had while working on this project?

There were several career milestones for me on this project, but one of the most memorable ones was planning, procuring, and implementing the heaviest lift of my career (so far!). Refining the lift plan to meet the crew's expectations and the requirements of the lift reviewer taught me a lot. I was able to procure a lightweight sling that met industry requirements for the lift while minimising manual handling risks for the crew. The lift went off without a hitch, and both the crew and management team were delighted with our efforts towards this successful outcome.

What are some of the technical skills and knowledge required that you believe made you qualified for this role?

The project management skills I had learned over the years were key to my success in this role. Soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and organisation formed the basis of my daily tasks. When I lacked technical skills, I was not hesitant to seek help, and there were always people willing to assist, just as I was when my colleagues needed help. While I did rely on my technical skills, such as understanding plant and equipment, lift planning, and logistical planning, I felt that my project management soft skills played a more substantial role.

During this project, how did you manage the demands of working in a maritime setting with your personal life?

For me, the demands on my personal life primarily stemmed from a FIFO (Fly-In-Fly-Out) perspective. I had never worked on a proper FIFO roster before, and I had only been married for six months before the project, which made married life a little tricky. I realise how much I appreciated spending time with friends and family even more when I was back on my Rest and Recreation (RnR). However, both my husband and I felt lonely at times while I was away.

What's your best memory of this project and why?

Once again, there were so many amazing memories, but one of the best was when we had whales visit us right next to the barge!

What advice would you give to other aspiring female engineers interested in pursuing a career in the industry?

Being an engineer has been incredibly fulfilling for me. Seeing something you've planned and executed being built and used is a great feeling. My advice would be to follow your passion and let it guide you. People can see that passion and are drawn to it. It will also help you remain open to learning new things and continuously improving yourself. If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in life. I've had hard days that felt endless, but for the most part, I absolutely love what I do, and I'm grateful for the opportunity. Also, don't ever feel like you need to change yourself to fit in with the men; let them fit in with you!

Today, we're excited to shine a spotlight on Frazer McCloy, our Design Engineer, who recently completed his first year at CaSE & Pike Design team.

In this interview, we explore the journey and professional experiences of this dedicated professional who has been a valuable member of the CaSE & Pike Design team for the past year.

1- How did your journey with CaSE begin, and what have you been doing in your first year with us?

One of my main motivators for joining CaSE was the development opportunities available and involvement in specialised structural engineering works. My first few weeks at the company were especially busy, involving a few days in the Brisbane office, followed by a trip to Canberra for the Snowy Hydro project, and a stop in Sydney on the return journey to attend the CaSE 5-year and CJC 10-year client event. Not long after, I enjoyed a couple of weeks of holiday for my wedding and honeymoon.

In my first year, I have been applying my knowledge and experience in structural design, proof engineering, and inspections to temporary works for major infrastructure projects. Key project involvements include Cross River Rail, Sydney Gateway, SCAW, and Botany Rail, to name a few.

2 - What aspects of your work do you find particularly important, and could you share the most satisfying experience you've had so far?

At CaSE, we work closely and collaboratively with our clients in the construction of key infrastructure throughout Australia. We are able to offer a quality service to clients who are keen to engage us for both our in-house design and our site support capabilities. I have found a key focal point within the business to be the constructability aspect of design. I have seen firsthand the issues that arise when constructability is not considered in the design stage.

In the temporary works space, there is a quick turnaround from design to construction, which is a refreshing change of pace compared to my permanent works background. In terms of a satisfying experience, it would be the opportunity to travel to the site to inspect my own designs only a matter of days after issuing the documentation in some instances.

3 - Looking ahead, what's next for you in your career?

With 5 years of experience in structural engineering, next up for me is looking to achieve chartership status. Having experience in both temporary and permanent works as well as the full life cycle of structures from design to asset management and demolition, I believe I am at a stage where I can work competently and independently to achieve quality outcomes.

4 - You have achieved significant success as a young professional. What advice would you give to others interested in pursuing a similar path?

A key contributor to where I have landed in this industry is informal mentoring. Mentoring is a two-way street, and my advice to those on a similar path is to position yourself where you can best leverage a relationship with an experienced colleague. Develop trust in this relationship by your response to feedback and striving for quality in your work for the benefit of your personal brand and company reputation.

5 - Additionally, could you tell us about your favourite CaSE project and explain why it holds a special place in your career?

I had the opportunity to proof engineer and inspect the casting cells for the Western Sydney Airport SCAW project. This was a complex structure that required detailed structural analysis and modelling to understand the load effects induced in the structure. This project combined my experiences in temporary and permanent works and was a great example of the complex and specialised work the business is capable of.

That said, in my career, I have had limited involvement in Brisbane-based projects. So, as a Brisbane local, when Cross River Rail is completed, and I am walking through the Roma St, Albert St, and Gabba Stations in the years to come, I suspect the satisfaction of all my time spent in the tunnel will have paid off.

Frazer has achieved a lot within his first year at CaSE, and his dedication and commitment to excellence highlight the qualities that make him an asset to our team. We look forward to following his future career and projects at CaSE with great anticipation.

If you're interested in some of the projects and expertise shared here, we invite you to visit our Projects page and explore more about the outstanding work done by the CaSE & Pike Design Team.

We are immensely proud to announce that Russel Odendaal, Principal Structural Engineer at CaSE & Pike Design, has been selected to participate in the 2024 Roads Australia Fellowship Program.

The Fellowship Program is a nationwide mentoring initiative that pairs experienced industry leaders (Mentors) with promising mid-career professionals (Fellows) who show strong leadership potential. Over a 12-month period, participants engage in regular meetings where Mentors offer individualised career guidance and leadership development. The primary goal of The RA Fellowship Program is to nurture the future leaders of our industry, backed by the endorsement of esteemed figures within our field.

Selected Fellows will have access to experienced mentors who offer valuable insights and guidance for career growth. Russel says that this experience will "enable him to learn from industry leaders." About his selection to join the program, he affirms, "I am excited to be involved in this year’s programme and look forward to developing my leadership and business development skills and expanding my knowledge of the transport industry.”

With Russel’s extensive knowledge and practical expertise, we eagerly anticipate the valuable contributions he will bring to the program and the wider engineering community. "I've known Russ as an excellent structural engineer. While he was growing the Design Team in Queensland, I also acknowledged him as our rising star, someone who could elevate our team to the next level by establishing a strong connection with our clients and strategically developing our services. I’m very excited that Russ can grow his leadership skills further within the RA Fellowship Program and with the wider network that it gives him access to. We fully support him on this journey!", reinforces Florian Dieterle, Technical Director of CaSE & Pike Design.

Congratulations and well done, Russel!

About Russel Odendaal

Russel brings extensive expertise in designing and constructing diverse permanent and temporary structures, spanning from prestressed concrete bridges to braced excavations. His experience extends across global locations, including Australia, the UK, Asia, and the Middle East. Collaborating closely with on-site contractors has equipped Russel with insights into constructability, integrated seamlessly into his designs. His proficiency is highlighted in analytical and design skills, encompassing finite element models for both linear and non-linear analysis.

Click here to learn more about his outstanding contributions at CaSE & Pike Design team.

About RA Fellowship Program

The RA Fellowship Program is a unique mentoring initiative that matches industry ‘up and comers’ with some of the most experienced, senior leaders in the Australian infrastructure sector.

The program provides opportunities and encouragement for the next generation to develop leadership skills, build strong networks and stay engaged in our industry.

To know more about it, visit: RA Fellowship Program - Roads Australia

by Inside Small Business 

CaSE & Pike Design is the design arm of parent company CaSE that offers engineering services for complex bridges, such as analysing their stability during construction. As Technical Director, Florian Dieterle has technical oversight over the various infrastructure design projects and is ultimately responsible for signing off any in-house bridge designs.

As with so many other businesses, Florian’s biggest challenge in the last 12 months has been staff attraction and retention – characterised by a lack of candidates and ‘The Great Resignation’ – while handling projects with tight deadlines. “To overcome this, I transformed my management style from being project-focused on meeting deadlines to a more people-based approach focused on development of the people,” Florian says. “We also introduced the role of ‘team leaders’ focused on the development of the team members, as opposed to ‘project managers’ focused on managing projects.”

Taking the time to understand the career goals of engineers, fostering open communication and regular engagement have promoted personal growth and enjoyment among CaSE’s employees. “This shift to a people-centric approach has yielded significant benefits,” Florian avers. “It has fostered better collaboration, higher employee satisfaction, increased employee retention and, most notably, better project outcomes. By embracing this transformation, I successfully managed staff shortages while effectively delivering demanding projects with tight deadlines.”

CaSE’s most important recent innovation has been the integration of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology. “This shift from traditional 2D plans to 3D (and even 4D) models has revolutionised our approach to designing projects,” Florian explains. “Through BIM, we have seamlessly co-ordinated with other disciplines, utilising their 3D models for collaboration.”

By leveraging 3D scanning, CaSE has successfully imported existing building shapes into its models, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the construction sequence and identification of potential safety hazards. The innovation has greatly improved clients’ comprehension of the projects, enabling effective decision-making and risk mitigation.

“Moreover, BIM has become our preferred tool for documentation, supporting the entire project lifecycle from concept to manufacturing,” Florian adds. “We utilise the 3D models to create detailed animations and interactive fly-throughs, allowing stakeholders to navigate the structure like a virtual computer game. This immersive approach enhances communication, facilitates better project visualisation, and streamlines the documentation process. As always, tools have to be fun to be used by people.”

The business is focusing on minimising the quantity of material it manufactures, by reusing existing materials. “By creatively brain-storming on reuse of materials already available, we have significantly reduced waste and resource consumption, contributing to a more sustainable approach,” Florian says. “For example, for steel towers to support a bridge during construction, we developed a modular system that could be adjusted for different locations and future projects. This practice not only reduces the demand for new resources, but also promotes the circular economy and minimises waste generation.”

To demonstrate its dedication to responsible sourcing, CaSE has also taken a firm stance against the use of hardwood from rainforests. “By opting for sustainable alternatives, we contribute to the preservation of precious ecosystems and promote the use of environmentally friendly materials in our projects,” Florian enthuses. “On a personal level, I have encouraged environmentally friendly practices within our team. I have adopted cycling as my mode of transport to work, reducing carbon emissions and promoting a healthier lifestyle.”

The business actively seeks partnerships with other small businesses to provide comprehensive solutions beyond each organisation’s individual capabilities. “By combining our expertise with that of our partners, we deliver holistic services that cater to diverse client needs,” Florian says. “These partnerships also serve as a strategic approach to prevent market dominance by larger corporations. Working together with fellow small businesses enhances our collective strength, promoting healthy competition and supporting the growth of the local economy.”

The content above is reposted from Inside Small Business and is the work of their talented team. To learn more about the Top 50 Small Business Leaders Award and discover additional insightful articles and resources, please visit Inside Small Business.