Highway geotechnical engineering it seems continues to benefit from smarter ideas and kit for use in investigation, design and construction in response to the demands brought on by extreme weather and seismic events, premium construction materials (notably aggregate and sand) becoming scarce and client expectations for guarantees of resilience in built asset performance. 

But have things really changed that much? Computer based design offers technical efficiency whilst using largely unchanged fundamental geotechnical principles presented in guidelines prepared by the New Zealand Ministry of Works and others. Success in construction undoubtedly benefits from the bigger and better equipment but still at its core relies of the skills and wisdom of the operators. 

William will use his presentation to show colleagues why he is proud and largely satisfied with his time as a “highway geotech” whilst challenging us all to do better and rise to the very real challenges ahead.