Part of the ICE membership, becoming a fellow demonstrates the peak of an engineer’s profession.
Fellowship recognises senior level of knowledge, ability, experience and contribution to the engineering community. The prestigious accreditation can demand other values, including expertise in niche technical subjects, engaging in engineering education and training, or playing a part in changing policy for the sector.
Steve is a Chartered Civil and Structural Engineer with over 33 years’ experience in Civil Engineering Design and Construction gained with major contractors including Amec, Kvaerner and Bechtel. He has been the Engineering Director at MGF since 2005, responsible for all matters technical and the production of over 43,000 temporary works designs during this period.
MGF manufacture and supply approx. 30% of the UK’s excavation support system market and currently employs 38 Design and Engineering staff.
Steve has been responsible for professionalising the business and transforming it from a successful family-run enterprise to a cutting-edge manufacturing and technical centre with a worldwide reputation for quality and service. Pivotal to the success was the introduction of a solution-based research and development process, 3D/4D technology, BIM and bespoke design management systems.
Chairman, Michael O Hara, summarises Steve’s impact,
“Over the last 13 years, Steve has built an enviable team of talented engineers. He has revolutionised MGF’s engineering ability and, visible from the accolade, has revolutionised the industry. He is undoubtedly the UK’s recognised professor in shoring technology.”
During his tenure at MGF he has been responsible for introducing innovative new products to the market, most notably inventing GRiPSHORE®, the first plastic composites in excavation shoring. The invention of GRiPSHORE® has significantly advanced the practice of executing small excavations safely, particularly in utility and rail contracts. The system combines hydraulic trench jacking theory and soil arching principles from the USA with modern European shoring system design standard and modern European structural grade pultruded plastic standards. On average over 600 sets are in use every day. For the first time in the UK, thousands of groundwork gangs working from white vans and mini excavators have a viable safety solution.
Fellowship certification undeniably asserts the position of a role model for other engineers. Sam Cherrington, engineer and design co-ordinator for the south-east added,
“Whilst achieving his own career ambitions, Steve continues to play an active role in helping others to accomplish their own goals. His role as a mentor to the engineering team involves overseeing professional development and providing an invaluable source of technical support; and through Steve’s strong working relationships with the University of Salford, he continues to inspire and lead new graduates.”
A champion of digital engineering within the supply chain, Steve regularly speaks on the subject. In addition, he has maintained a high profile within the industry, working closely with the University of Salford promoting STEM, encouraging females and disadvantaged individuals into civil engineering careers. Through his commitment, MGF now provide bursaries, summer placements, secondments, sabbaticals, assistance with dissertations and guest lectures to placement and graduate employees.
Outside of engineering Steve plays golf and has enjoyed 29 years of marriage with Julia and has 3 children.
