CAREERS BLOG
Tony Gee Canada: an interview with Geotechnical Lead, Elly Powell
Elly Powell has worked at Tony Gee for almost 17 years and has recently taken up the role of Geotechnical Lead in our newly launched Canada office. Whilst the spotlight is on Tony Gee Canada, we thought it was a good time to catch up with Elly and ask her some questions to find out more about her previous experience with Tony Gee and the exciting opportunities in the future.
How long have you worked for Tony Gee and what would you say are the highlights of your career at Tony Gee?
I have worked for Tony Gee for almost 17 years, and before that did a further three years as a summer student.
Highlights of my career include designing deep basements in central Cardiff, Cofferdams in the middle of the Liffey River Dublin, Abseiling Sea cliffs and numerous tunnel portals in inspection works and working on Blackfriars railway bridge in London.
Read more about Blackfriars Bridge Station project here
What is the most memorable project you have worked on and why?
My most memorable project is Dawlish Emergency works. Back in 2014, a storm heavily damaged the railway line at Dawlish Station. I was the designer’s Site Engineer for this challenging project, to repair and reinstate nearly three kilometres of damaged sea wall, railway and sea cliffs.
The best thing about the project was the comradery with all the contractors and clients working as an alliance towards a single goal.
It was hard work to deliver in such a short time, but the sense of achievement and purpose was remarkable.
Whilst working on the Dawlish Emergency Works project the team raised money for our company charity RedR UK.
What does the future hold for you in Canada?
Moving to Canada was a unique opportunity for me to re-engage in large heavy civils and deep excavation work, with the aim to help deliver the planned massive investment in Toronto’s public transport infrastructure.
I love the engineering combination of highly analytical technical problem solving varied with the day-to-day simplicity of practical construction.
I am looking forward to building an engineering team of enthusiastic individuals that can help shape and contribute to Toronto’s growth and future.
Why work for Tony Gee?
Tony Gee is a big company with a small company feel. Engineers are at the heart of all project works, so you will do everything from the site works, client interfacing, design, project management, accounting and contracts. The company offers engineers great autonomy in how they deliver the works and has a range of work from standard routine schemes to bespoke highly unique innovative solutions to keep you engaged and stimulated.
Tony Gee is made by its open and friendly people, who like to develop and nurture staff throughout their careers.
Check out our vacancies here
