Since joining Cambria in May, Rob Wood has been enjoying his new role as Senior Civil Engineer. We sat down with him to talk more about how things are going, and what he’s looking forward to most.
How did you get into civil engineering and where did your career take you before joining Cambria?
I graduated from Cardiff University in 2018, and began my career at Burroughs in Cardiff as a Graduate Engineer, later being promoted to Civil Engineer in 2020. I was involved in a diverse range of projects there, from highways and bridges to power stations to data centre developments.
In 2022, I joined Arup in Cardiff Bay, working within the Civil Engineering (Site Development) team. In that time, I was part of the design of several brilliant education projects across Wales, including the new Fairwater Campus in West Cardiff. I was also heavily involved in the design of Cardiff Arena and parts of the new Atlantic Wharf development, which are fantastic projects.
How are you finding your new role at Cambria?
I am really enjoying the new role so far. The projects I have started with are really interesting; they include school redevelopments, new university buildings, and port-side developments, all spread across south Wales.
The Cambria team is so friendly, and it’s a relaxed environment but also very professional. Working at Cambria offers a different day-to-day environment compared to Arup, but the projects are similarly scaled and the technical work remains closely aligned.
Is there anything you’re particularly enjoying about your work so far?
The first few months have really been about settling in and getting to know the team and the projects inside-out, and I’ve enjoyed that process. I am relishing the opportunity to lead the Civil Engineering elements of large projects and having a key influence on schemes throughout each design stage.
Education projects are something I really enjoy, as there are so many varied elements in the civil design – the main buildings, the playgrounds, pitches, car parks, and how these areas interface with the site levels and sustainable drainage (SuDS) design. SuDS is a subject close to my heart, and a hot topic in Wales, following the introduction of SAB legislation, which makes the use of SuDS on projects a higher priority.
Looking ahead, what would you most like to achieve at Cambria?
In the next couple of years, I am looking to become chartered with the ICE – I am already working towards this and will be using my project work to evidence my chartership reports.
Project wise, I’m excited to progress with the design of two schools in Swansea and Bridgend, which are both currently in the early stages of design. This means I have the opportunity to influence the site masterplans, levels, drainage, and to put my own stamp on the design.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy?
Away from the office, I enjoy 5 and 7-a-side football, and so of course I’m excited about Cambria’s Fantasy Football league. You’ll often find me watching different sports – football, golf, cricket, and tennis. I am hugely into music, and try to see my favourite bands and artists perform live as often as I can. I also love travelling and going on city breaks/weekends away with my partner, and I’m looking forward to planning more trips away in the near future.
We asked Director & Chartered Engineer at Cambria Consulting, Laura Mitchell about Rob joining the team:
“We’re thrilled to officially welcome Rob to our expanding Civils team!
“Rob’s motivation, enthusiasm, and expertise have already made a real impact – delivering value to our clients and contributing to project success. He’s also brought fresh energy to the office (and shaken up the Fantasy Premier League standings too!).
“One to watch, for sure – welcome aboard, Rob!”
