Case studies: Transport planner: Richard Hernan

Richard is a transport planner for Atkins, a global engineering and design consultancy.

I graduated in civil engineering with honours at Paisley University in 2007. Summer work in a civil engineering firm stood me in good stead when applying to major engineering firms. I could also use to good advantage my extensive retail experience, demonstrating how stock control and customer liaison developed forward planning and inter-personal skills, which are relevant to my work in construction. Selection tests also showed that I have good practical problem-solving skills, which are an essential pre-requisite in this sector.

Recruitment into transport planning typically calls for a numerate degree, though not necessarily civil engineering. Degree subjects can be quite varied though and I work with folk who have geography and archaeology degrees. Starting as an assistant transport planner, I had a choice of becoming chartered with various professional bodies. I chose the Institute of Logistics and Transportation as being most directly relevant to my work. It is possible to qualify for membership in three years, depending on the kinds of work experience covered in that time.

In my first year with Atkins I was seconded to London to work on appraisal of sustainable transportation schemes for the Olympic project. On returning to Glasgow I helped clients by advising on transport aspects of planning applications.

This was followed by a secondment to a local authority, initially for three months, but somehow they managed to keep me for two years. Work there ranged from designing traffic signs to drafting traffic regulation orders. I also advised on reviews of school walking routes and planning applications. I enjoyed interaction with these clients and assisting with the training of a member of their staff.

I am now involved in multiple projects at Atkins' Glasgow office, working in a team of three people. The work is mainly office based and very varied. I contribute to feasibility studies, design work and preparing elements of bids for new work.

Ideally, my next job would be in a bigger team, tackling high profile projects such as the Olympic work. To gain that experience I am prepared to relocate, possibly to London. At some point, overseas experience would enhance my promotion prospects.

I like the creativity of this work and being involved in projects from start to finish. Statistical modelling of transport flows is not my favourite part of the work, but it is essential. The greatest buzz comes from working with clients and giving them satisfactory outcomes.

When competition is tough, a postgraduate qualification may be helpful, but my experience shows it is not obligatory. Candidates should show a passionate interest in transport and evidence of ability to get to grips with practical problem solving and a commitment to providing clients with high quality results.