Experience

Name: Richard John Parrott

Date Of Birth: 18 November 1950

Higher Education: University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Qualifications: BSc (Hons), PhD, C.Eng, MICE, MIMechE

Experience:

My early career was spent in Civil Engineering design. Subsequent to carrying research for a PhD. in Structural Engineering, I joined a mechanical design consultant where I had the opportunity to work on the design of movable structures. I gained an insight into the problems of integration of various disciplines.

When I joined the British Waterways Board Bridges section in Leeds in 1979, as well as carrying out Civil Engineering design and site work, I was given the opportunity to develop in house expertise in the design of movable bridges. This expertise covered all of the aspects of movable bridges including structural, mechanical, power hydraulic electrical power and control. I was largely self-taught in these disciplines.

A period with a large structural consultant followed where I managed a team of between 16 and 24 staff carrying out the design of power station steelwork and mechanical handling plant. During this time, however, I also carried out design and site work for a number of movable bridges and continued to develop my expertise in the field.

A move to a mechanical consultant, Bennett Associates six years ago acted as a catalyst both for the company and for the further development of my expertise. During my time there, I have successfully obtained many commissions for the design and site supervision particularly of movable structures, but also in the field of power station structures and mechanical handling. This has enabled me to develop my expertise substantially. I have also carried out expert witness work on a number of mechanical commissions.

At present, my particular interests are in conceptual work, troubleshooting and disseminating the experience that I have gained over many years.

Summary:

During my career, I have developed expertise in many branches of Engineering particularly related to movable structures. My recent experience has concentrated on steel structures, power hydraulics, electrical power and control systems. I still have my Civil Engineering experience, which ensures that I have an understanding of the needs of the various parts of the industry.

My experience is that attention to detail gives the greatest opportunity for success in any Engineering project and this is particularly the case where various disciplines interact.