With a reputation for delivering cutting-edge solutions across various engineering disciplines, TGA’s team boasts a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Now, our “In the Spotlight” blog series brings their stories to you, shedding light on the people who make TGA Consulting Engineers the industry leader it is today.
In this exclusive series, we dive deep into the lives and experiences of TGA’s talented engineers. We uncover their journeys, passions, and the innovative projects they’re currently working on. With each interview, you’ll gain a unique perspective into the world of engineering and the people driving change within the industry.
Introducing…
New starter, Ed McNaught.
Ed is a Chartered Electrical Engineer with a particular interest in Healthcare Engineering and is a Fellow of both the IET and IHEEM. Ed joins TGA as a Healthcare Specialist. He has extensive experience in developing Electrical Infrastructure to support the high levels of resilience that are required for hospitals and at the same time enabling the incorporation of decarbonised energy solutions.
Let’s find out a bit more about him….
What’s your name/job title/role/office?
Ed McNaught, Healthcare Specialist. Newcastle.
Current projects you’re working on?
Having only just started recently with TGA, Ed is assisting on multiple projects spanning a range of sectors but will be assisting with healthcare projects in the long term.
Most exciting part of your job?
Seeing projects that I have had a hand in coming to fruition, particularly those that benefit everyone, which is especially the case with healthcare projects.
Do you have any people who inspire(d) you/your work?
Admiral Lord Collingwood who took over the Battle of Trafalgar when Nelson was killed. He was born and bred in Newcastle and had a reputation for always looking after his sailors – a good example of leadership. I am a member of the Collingwood Society – a historical society that keeps his story alive!
Number 1 tip/piece of advice for aspiring engineers?
Follow your inquisitive instincts and see where it takes you.
What has been your career path so far?
I went straight to Newcastle University from school and graduated in 1982 with a BSc Honours in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
From there I initially trained in the Power Industry, working in major power project turnkey contracting with NEI Projects Ltd and qualifying as a Chartered Engineer in 1989.
I have continued to work in Newcastle in Engineering roles for consultants in the Construction Sector and the Water Industry and a short period in a client role for the Highways Agency.
For the last 22 years I worked in the Newcastle office of RPS, formerly R W Gregory & Partners.
I was promoted to Technical Director in 2011 and led the Electrical Engineering discipline responsible for delivery of both Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Consultancy services and for the financial performance of my team and the career development and management of my staff.
I have led the Engineering design of several large building and infrastructure schemes, a highlight being as Principal Designer and Design Team Leader for the £25m Electrical Infrastructure and new Energy Centre at the University Hospital North Tees, which replaced ageing infrastructure and enhanced the resilience and reliability of the hospital.
In parallel with my Engineering Career, I have had a part time career of 38 years in the Royal Naval Reserve achieving the rank of Commander. I was the Commanding Officer of HMS Calliope, the RNR base on Tyneside and went on to be responsible for the whole RNR footprint across the North of England. This led to my being awarded the Reserve Decoration and being appointed a Deputy Lieutenant for Tyne & Wear.
How have your engineering skills developed over your career?
Every day is a school day! This may sound like a cliché, but there really is something new to learn and explore all the time.
Why did you pursue a career in engineering/anything specific that solidified you wanting to go for it?
I think it was in school physics lessons that I first became interested in electricity and it went from there.
Where do you see things going in the future/future aspirations?
I am looking forward to developing the TGA healthcare team and passing on my experience to benefit as many as I can before I retire!
Why did you join this company?
I know a number of people at TGA, and they are all enthusiastic about working here. I wanted to join an organisation that is focused on the Engineering and small enough not to be distracted with corporate matters.
What area of engineering are you most interested in, and why?
Electrical Infrastructure to support high levels of resilience that are required for hospitals and to enable decarbonised energy provision.
How do you keep up with the latest changes to engineering codes and regulations?
Through membership of the Engineering Institutions, I read their publications, which signposts me to the latest developments.
How often do you update training/how do you to ensure you are informed on the latest engineering developments/latest software programs?
It’s a continuous process whenever something changes. I engage fully with CPD offered by engineering system manufacturers and find this a useful and efficient way of keeping up to date with the latest innovations.
How do you handle a last-minute shift in goals when much of the work is already completed?
After 40 years in work, it no longer comes as a surprise! Whilst you have to knuckle down to it, it is worthwhile taking a moment to assess the impact and find a way to minimise the changes that will be required. I have also become alert to the likelihood of change and try to build flexibility into designs in anticipation.
