The transition to new project types isn’t just about applying old skills to new challenges. It’s also about embracing versatility. “I think we will need engineers with a broader skill set than we’ve needed in the past.”
This changing landscape will also require new approaches to contracting. Traditional design-and-construct models and risk allocation methods must evolve. “Collaborative contracts, focused on shared risk and teamwork, are increasingly important,” she says.
“The question now is how to adopt innovative contracting approaches to best manage risk in a way that benefits all stakeholders. Clients are collectively starting to talk about collaborative contracts – and that’s a good sign.”
Skills in sustainability, honed through work on linear infrastructure, can also be applied to energy and water projects. “It’s encouraging to see sustainability being baked in from the very start of projects and being embedded into business cases. Reducing carbon was once seen through the lens of cost-saving, but now we’re looking at it from a whole-system perspective – and that’s leading to positive outcomes.”
Sam is also committed to Consult Australia’s digital by default agenda. WSP’s digital engineering approach, including the innovative Customer Connectivity tool and Development Application (DA Bot) were developed for Sydney Metro City and Southwest and recognised at the 2017 Consult Australia Awards.
“WSP is committed to digital delivery. Digital approaches improve productivity and consistency, not just in delivery but in pricing too. The shift to streamlined digital solutions makes it easier to predict, price and deliver.”