Andrew Johnson

Associate

Andrew Johnson
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Andrew is responsible for delivering BIM implementation projects alongside designing and developing digital transformation programmes for industry clients. Andrew specialises in digital strategy development through information management on live projects and through research. In 2019, Andrew left the Corps of Royal Engineers after a full 24 years’ service, leaving as a senior soldier. Prior to leaving the military, Andrew completed his postgraduate MSc in engineering management, with a thesis that investigated the cultural impact of implementing BIM in the UK construction industry.

What inspires you?

Innovative people – both in the workplace and within industry. It is excellent when there is a success story or breakthrough from courageous people within the construction industry. The people behind these are not usually experts or managers: they are just bold enough. These people disrupt the construction industry with their innovative ideas and make them more competitive.

What do you believe are the current challenges in our industry, and how can we overcome them?

Currently, the biggest challenge in our industry is Coronavirus as it is having a significant impact on businesses across the construction industry worldwide. Lots of employees have now experienced working remotely for several months, while other employees are unfortunately furloughed. I was one of those unlucky ones. To overcome these challenges, we need to be visionaries and evolve. If businesses choose to revert to old ways of working, they will lose their competitiveness and probably their businesses. It is time to be forward-thinking opportunists.

What is your proudest moment?

It was being selected to be the Sergeant Major Instructor (SMI) for the Military Plant Foreman (MPF) course and roster. It had always been my dream from when the SMI taught me on the course in 2007. Earning a place on the competitive course was hard enough but having the honour to represent, train and career manage the next generation of civil engineers in the Corps of Royal Engineers was priceless!

What added value do you bring to your projects?

I have gained a vast amount of technical experience working on projects around the world. I experienced working first-hand with many different cultures and people. Taking every opportunity, I have immersed myself in local cultures, notably in the Middle East. I worked in Oman for three years as the civil engineering advisor for the 800km border road project. It allowed me to be proficient in Gulf Arabic, which not only helped me overcome the language barrier, but gained me respect which in turn led to higher productivity.

People are the biggest asset on a project. I nurture them and understand each person’s strengths and motivators as this helps to build a great team. I do not dictate; I coach to find the right solutions so they can make their own decisions. If you have trust, then you will be adding real value to projects.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

I was part of a team that designed, procured and delivered an award-winning road called Route Trident in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Using unconventional methods, Route Trident was value engineered to reduce costs by 80%, but more importantly save the lives of soldiers and nationals. Its unique design deterred insurgents from planting Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in the road.

I was awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service for selfless commitment following the delivery of Route Trident and other infrastructure projects.

What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?

Make sure you are in Julie’s Night Club in Newcastle on the 7th January 2000 wearing a jumper. I met my wife that night, and if I had not met her, I very much doubt I would be as successful and happy as I am today. For the past 20 years, she has pushed and supported me while raising two fantastic boys.