Engineering for the future for a changing demographic in Aotearoa, New Zealand
| Date | Friday 24 March 2023 |
|---|---|
| Time | 12pm - 1pm |
| Where | K.G.09 and via zoom: https://waikato.zoom.us/j/95492778502 |
| Presenter | Ray Hudd, School of Engineering, University of Waikato |
| Contact | Renae Dixon |
| Contact email | renae.dixon@waikato.ac.nz |
| Website | tengira.waikato.ac.nz/te-ngira-seminar-series |
| Admission Cost | Free |
Abstract:
Civil engineering has been around for thousands of years. Many major developments have occurred since the industrial revolution resulting in many great advances in society. The basic physical principles remain unchanged even in our modern technological world with advanced computer based analysis techniques. However, in recent years there has been an increasing realisation that these solutions while meeting the physical parameters don’t always address the problems they were designed for. It is now recognised that more information and a broader perspective is needed when undertaking designs to ensure they meet the specific rather than generic needs of the individuals and groups they are intended to serve. To that end, a greater knowledge and understanding of changing population demographics and its changing requirements and priorities is needed as the basis of design decision making. This presentation will discuss the potential opportunities this approach presents and how it can lead to sustainable infrastructure solutions to meet the people of Aotearoa's needs and aspirations into the future. Examples of engagement with communities relating to these different demographics will be used to illustrate how this can be applied in practice.
Bio:
Born in the North West of England near Liverpool. After graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Civil Engineering and completing his PhD in concrete permeability test methods he worked as a product developer in the construction material supply sector developing new products for projects in the UK, Europe and Asia and New Zealand after emigrating here in 1998. In addition to these Ray has also worked as a lifestyle farmer, an intelligence analyst for New Zealand Police, and processing and quality control roles in the agricultural sector. He started teaching Civil Engineering at the University of Waikato in 2019. His teaching includes materials, construction processes and civil engineering design. He has a keen interest in finding improved solutions to infrastructure development in the face of a changing society.