Q&A: Atkins Réalis’ Jane Middleton on driving change in inclusive PPE

Q. How do you describe your work when asked by someone outside the geotechnical sector?

I’m helping companies that manage a network of assets such as roads, water distribution or electricity distribution to keep their services running smoothly. I help them make decisions on how best to spend their money and how to prioritise activities to create the most efficiencies. That might be by implementing software, inspecting assets for defects or making robust plans for the next funding cycle.

I am also helping Atkins Réalis to improve their range of PPE ensuring it is diverse and suitable for every individual who is going to site.

Q. What do you enjoy most about your work?

I enjoy the variety most; every project I’ve worked on has been so different. In my previous role as an engineering geologist, I worked across multiple sectors, on site, office based or seconded. I am enjoying the challenge of my current role, learning about a whole new industry while applying my experience from other asset management roles.

I also find it rewarding to help people find the PPE solution they’ve been searching for, for example, sourcing size 3 steel capped boots or the model of hard hat that fits a small head.

Q. What has been the most memorable project or assignment you have worked on and why?

My first big project when I started on the graduate scheme at Atkins Réalis was working on the Heathrow Expansion Project. I learned so much so quickly and was surrounded by an incredibly supportive team who sated my curiosity. This project was my first exposure to site work, and where my passion for improving PPE ignited. I wore PPE every day. I found my PPE simultaneously restrictive and so baggy that it caught on tree branches, so I started searching for a solution.

Q. What are you currently working on?

Currently, I’m working with Copperleaf (a software company) to implement an asset investment, planning and management solution (AIPM) for a large electricity distribution company in Europe. The tool helps to prioritise work and creates efficiencies with resourcing and spend to future-proof the network. This AIPM solution has been implemented across the globe including UK clients such as National Highways, Network Rail, National Grid and Anglian Water.

Alongside this I am working with the Empower network within Atkins Réalis on the #PPEForAll initiative. This initiative is to improve the diversity and accessibility of inclusive PPE and to raise awareness of specialist items available on the market today, such as smaller safety glasses.

I’m also part of Bold as Brass, which is a women’s network set up by women’s safety and retention specialist Katherine Evans, originally for networking while improving women’s PPE. I’m also on the committee drafting panel for the next British Standard for Guidance on the Provision and Procurement of Inclusive PPE - BS 30417.

Q. Who or what inspires you?

The women within the Bold as Brass group. Many of them are mothers, who work, have full lives and still find the time to network and campaign for better women’s PPE.

Q. What challenges or opportunities should the geotechnical sector focus on today and in the future?

I think the biggest challenge is the lack of graduates direct from geotechnical degrees - civil engineering, geology, engineering geology and so on. I believe the industry should focus on the provision of apprenticeship schemes within consultancies and a system for graduates from other degree pathways to learn on the job.

Q. What would you tell people interested in a career in ground engineering?

It’s one of those careers where once you start, you’ll see it all around you. You’ll be like the little child who’s pointing at the digger or the crane because you’re interested to see what it’s doing!

Q. Finally, what book, television show, film, music album or podcast would you recommend to our readers?

I’d recommend "Countryfile" on BBC. Not only is it a wholesome Sunday programme, but it’s incredibly informative too. You could learn about habitat restoration projects, new windfarms, regeneration of soil and issues of climate change on our rivers in one episode.