Speakers

I am a Principal Acoustic Consultant with eleven years' experience in the assessment of acoustics and vibration. I am an Incorporated Engineer working towards Chartership. I have extensive experience in the technical assessment of noise and vibration, as well as a strong track record of project management and technical review of reports prepared by others. I have worked on projects of different sizes, both independently and as part of a team, and have excellent knowledge and practical experience in the application of national and local planning policies and national and international standards. I have managed projects of various scales, working towards value for money by keeping within budgets, or better, yet providing delivery within the given timescales. I have also managed technical teams of different sizes. I frequently communicate with clients, local planning authorities, design teams and members of the public. I have extensive experience of working as part of multidisciplinary teams and developing a clearer understanding of acoustics with stakeholders who may not be familiar with the subject. I love talking about acoustics to anyone who will listen, including children at my daughter's nursery. I am the Diversity Champion on the Institute of Acoustics Council, which is a role I relish. This role has encouraged me to think about diversity more widely and how I can embed it in my day-to-day practice. I have also set up the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Working Group for the IOA so that we can improve these issues within the Institute.

Why is it important to support diversity and inclusion? 

"Improving the diversity of an organisation is not about setting quotas: it is about making sure that the best person for a job is given an equal chance of success. I am passionate about improving diversity, equality and inclusion in construction because a diverse workforce, representing all social and ethnic backgrounds, enables all members of society to feel accepted, leading to greater confidence to express their ideas. If areas of society are unintentionally excluded from construction activities, the industry misses out on their experiences and viewpoints, which then affects the delivery of services back to society, leading to an endless loop".