We recently welcomed several new team members across various roles, marking an exciting period of growth for our civil engineering consultancy. This expansion reflects the reputation WCS has built as a company trusted by industry leaders. Our quick responses, reliable expertise, and team-focused approach help clients achieve successful outcomes — on time, within budget, and with minimal stress.
In this article, we highlight four of our newest senior civil and structural engineering hires and the value they bring to the team.
Michael Allan, Civil Design Engineer
Michael joined WCS in October 2024, bringing a wealth of experience from major Australian projects in his career in civil engineering. Now based with us in the UK, he’s already making his mark on a challenging and impactful project: designing and building critical infrastructure to power data centres near a major UK airport. “It’s a high-pressure project,” Michael shares, “with tight deadlines to get the substation running and a technically complicated site, but I enjoy the responsibility and the challenge of making it all work.”
Michael’s journey to civil engineering was inspired by a passion for seeing his ideas come to life. He reflects, “I love that you can build something on a computer, thrash out issues with your colleagues, and then it becomes a tangible piece of infrastructure that helps communities. It’s a satisfying feeling.”
His global perspective and commitment to making a difference are evident in his work. “A lot of what we do in the power sector contributes to electrifying the grid and reaching net-zero targets,” he notes. “In civil engineering, we also have the opportunity to reduce carbon impacts by designing smarter solutions.”
When asked what excites him most about his current work, Michael points to the moment when construction starts. “Seeing the issues we’ve planned for being managed successfully and, for example, watching massive transformers, worth millions of pounds, arrive on 90-metre trucks – it’s incredible,” he says.
Kyi Hnin Thwe, Civil / Structural Engineer
With extensive expertise from a fascinating 14-year engineering career in Singapore, Kyi Hnin has worked on projects ranging from residential high-rises to complex infrastructure like multi-storey train depots. Her ability to adapt and innovate shines through in every role she has undertaken. As Kyi Hnin puts it, “I love to learn new things,” an attitude that is already making waves here at WCS.
Her journey to engineering was inspired by family roots – her parents were civil engineers – and a natural affinity for problem-solving and design. Reflecting on her career beginnings, she shared, “I really liked mathematics and problem-solving… imagining and designing structures fascinated me.”
This passion has only grown over the years, with Kyi Hnin now channelling her expertise into projects that blend structural design and sustainability, an area she holds close to her heart. “With the current climate crisis, we as engineers have a responsibility to help the environment,” she emphasised.
Chris Beattie, Principal Civil Engineer
Chris brings decades of experience in civil and structural engineering to the WCS team. His career has taken him from product development in the steel industry to major transport infrastructure, with highlights including work on counter-terrorism measures, multi-storey buildings, and modular rail platforms.
Now part of the WCS team working on the Midland Main Line electrification programme, Chris is the Contractor’s Responsible Engineer (CRE) and is focused on substations and cable routes. “It’s a complex project,” Chris explains. “There are real challenges around access and site conditions, but problem-solving is a real skill of mine. I enjoy thinking things through in detail, looking for the most effective way to achieve a desired outcome.”
Having worked on solar farm framing systems and wind turbines, Chris is passionate about green engineering. “I’m fascinated by how we can transition to cleaner energy and a net-zero society,” he notes.
Mentorship is also a key interest. Having gained his chartership 20 years ago, he has since helped guide apprentices and graduates through their own professional development. “Supporting the next generation of engineers is something I really value,” he says.
Chris joined WCS to expand his expertise in power and energy while being part of a close-knit team. “It’s a great office – friendly, supportive, and, being right next to the station, I love being able to watch the trains go by,” he adds with a smile.
PyeiPyei Aung, Civil / Structural Design Engineer
With more than 12 years of experience in civil engineering, PyeiPyei worked extensively in Singapore before moving to the UK. Specialising in structural design, excavation, and railway projects, she brings expertise in foundation analysis and sustainable engineering solutions to WCS.
“I enjoy analysing and solving structural challenges, especially foundation, transformer, and retaining wall designs,” shares PyeiPyei. On joining WCS, she explains, “I was drawn to the exciting projects aligned with my expertise, particularly in railways.”
Reflecting on her transition, PyeiPyei notes, “The team’s collaborative environment and regular training have been incredibly helpful in adapting to UK guidelines and furthering my professional growth.”
Empowering our talented civil engineering team
Alongside welcoming new team members, we celebrated several well-deserved promotions within the team recently. These advancements reflect our commitment to fostering growth, recognising talent, and building a supportive workplace where individuals can thrive.
Promotions included Mohamed Omar, Paul Fany and Mohammad Hamid Ehsan advancing from their graduate positions to Civil Design Engineers, Celine Mahfoud‘s promotion from Graduate Civil/Structural Engineer to Civil/Structural Engineer, and Nick Lowe stepping into a Director role. Charlie Sidwell was promoted from Junior CAD Technician to CAD Technician, and Dallan McKenna was promoted to Lead CAD Technician.
A word from our Managing Director, Asa Whitfield
“WCS is entering 2025 with a stronger team and renewed commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients. By welcoming new talent and celebrating internal growth, we are poised for continued success in the months and years ahead.”
If you think the WCS team might be the right partner for your next project, please get in touch on 020 3581 7847 or at info@wcs-consult.co.uk.
