Young Structural Engineer of the Year 2008
Mike Sefton, of engineering consultants Buro Happold, has been awarded the Young Structural Engineer of the Year Award for 2008. As a reliable, mature and exceptional member of the Buro Happold team, Mike's quality of thinking and work shows strong potential for the future. Mike was presented with his award at the IStructE Centenary Annual Dinner on Friday 9th May 2008 and received a prize of £1,500 and a certificate of commendation.
The project that Mike entered for the Award was the Khan Shatyry Entertainment Centre which is soon to be the centrepiece of Astana, the new capital city of Kazakhstan. Mike played an integral role in developing the engineering concept to schematic design level and supporting the client in their coordination of the multinational group of specialist subcontractors building the roof. Mike's central importance as a team leader is an illustration of the trust and comfort Buro Happold, and renowned international architectural practices, have in his abilities.
Bob McKittrick, one of the judges and a past President of IStructE, commented: 'The competition this year was very strong but Mike's exceptional ability as an engineer really stood out. The Khan Shatyry Entertainment Centre is a truly significant project that was carried out by an obviously outstanding and very talented young engineer. Buro Happold are fortunate indeed to have such a rare talent from whom I hope we can expect great things in the future.'
Nick Hewson of Techniker, was awarded the runner-up prize and received £500 and a certificate. His entered project was 36-38 Queen Annes Gate, London (UK). This demonstrated his abilities as a strong engineer and team leader, working within a tight series of structural parameters and co-ordinating his own team to refurbish this existing building to create a contemporary office space.
The other shortlisted candidates for 2008 were:
- Penny Hull of Thomasons for the North Wing redevelopment at Caterham School (UK);
- Ryan Thurston of DGT Steel and Cladding Ltd for the Homeseeker Homes Development at Express Park, Rushden (UK);
- Rupesh Varsani of Ove Arup and Partners for the St. Pancras West Wing, a new 5-storey hotel, which forms part of the St. Pancras Station redevelopment.
