Crystal

Graduate Engineer, Structural, Building Engineering

Hong Kong

What is your name and role at AECOM?

My name is Crystal. I am a graduate structural engineer at AECOM in Hong Kong.

How long have you worked for AECOM?

I have been working at AECOM for nearly a year.

Describe your role and day-to-day work? 

My work has been mainly focusing on member checking and preparation of submissions for the building project, with the aid of spreadsheets and engineering software like Etabs and SAFE. My day-to-day work also includes communication with different stakeholders like the government department and construction engineers, providing structural advice and solve practical issues encountered during construction.

Thinking about the projects you are involved in – what impact have you had to improve social outcomes for communities? 

The project I am working on is building public housing for citizens. I have worked closely with government Authorities who receive citizens’ feedback and expectations on the building. Our team provide the utmost support to improve the building and environment to allow construction smoother and build a user-friendly and satisfying living environment for society.

How has your work at AECOM contributed towards having a positive impact on the environment? 

In Hong Kong, construction has been a major source of carbon emission, leading to global warming. My job has mainly focused on checking and simulating building behavior to avoid excessive usage of construction materials like reducing wall or beam sizes and the reinforcement needed. Early coordination with clients could also reduce the amount of abortive works. Our team struck hard to improve environmental impacts by the project.

Do you have any interesting experience around collaboration, multi dis work, and thinking and acting globally at AECOM?

Working on real projects allows me to utilize the engineering knowledge I learnt in university. I was taught the concept and theories, but the practical application requires much more consideration during designing structural members. There is a lot more to learn from seniors’ experiences.

Are there any other interesting or unique opportunities you have had through your work at AECOM? Or interesting experiences with clients or building client relationships?

I had the opportunity to attend technical coordination meetings and understand other elements of the project like E&M, architects and building services. Collaboration of all the elements is crucial to ensure smooth operation. On site meetings also allow me to see the progress and learn the practical construction workflow and obstacles.

How has AECOM helped you in your career development? 

AECOM has provided me with opportunities to take part in different projects like local public housing and international projects to learn while working. My team has always been bonded and faced challenges together. Each problem solved is the experience gained for me. My colleagues and my supervisors are friendly and very willing to train and answer my questions. In addition, managers are eager to support graduate members to prepare for charter examinations and they often share their personal experience and preparation for their chartership.

What’s your proudest moment at AECOM?

I am proud of being a graduate ambassador for AECOM, knowing that I will be able to encourage talents to join AECOM and experience warmth and support in this company. It is thrilling to see more graduates earning a sense of accomplishment and having smooth path to become professional engineers in this family.