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…
Emma Marshall, TGA’s Healthcare Lead and recently promoted Technical Director!
After graduating with a first class Masters in Building Services Engineering Emma was awarded the CIBSE/ASHRAE Graduate of the Year before obtaining her Chartered Engineer status.
Emma has worked as the Lead Mechanical Engineer on a wide range of projects throughout the UK and Ireland these include new build and refurbishment projects across a variety of sectors including healthcare, education, commercial and residential developments.
Emma is a qualified AP for Medical Gas Pipeline Systems, also has experience in designing low carbon and net zero carbon designs integrating low and zero carbon technologies and is a registered Low Carbon Consultant.
Let’s find out a bit more about her….
What’s your name/job title/role/office?
Emma Marshall, Technical Director – Healthcare Lead, Newcastle.
Current projects you’re working on?
Currently working on a number of refurbishment and new build projects at Sunderland Royal Hospital, South Tyneside District Hospital, University Hospital of North Tees and Royal Victoria Infirmary.
Most exciting part of your job?
Seeing the project complete and in use. Particularly in healthcare projects to see your design operational and benefitting people is always a good feeling.
Do you have any people who inspire(d) you/your work?
Stuart Long and Ken Kelly were great mentors to me early in my career and have provided me with continual support over the years.
Number 1 tip/piece of advice for aspiring engineers?
Get involved as early as possible with the design in the early stages. This early engagement with the design team and client is fundamental to a smooth design process and positive relationship with the design team.
What has been your career path so far?
BEng degree – 2005-2009
MEng degree – 2009-2011 (part-time)
Awarded the CIBSE/ASHRAE Graduate of the Year – 2009
RPS – 2007-2022 – Graduate, Engineer, Senior Engineer
Obtained her Chartered Engineer status – 2014
Associate, Healthcare Lead – TGA Consulting Engineers LLP 2022-2024
Technical Director, Healthcare Lead – TGA Consulting Engineers LLP 2024 – current
How have your engineering skills developed over your career?
I have now worked in the industry for 17 years and over that time I have worked on a wide variety of projects, all of which have provided me with new skills and experiences.
I have always worked in healthcare however, over the years this became the main focus of my career and my skills and training developed accordingly to support this. This included qualifying as a medical gas AP and more recently focusing on the requirements for delivering a Net Zero NHS and how we can incorporate this into our designs.
Why did you pursue a career in engineering/anything specific that solidified you wanting to go for it?
I was always interested in a career in the Built Environment but it was work experience at 16 years old which led me to this career path and the decision to study Building Services Engineering at University!
Where do you see things going in the future/future aspirations?
I hope to be able to continue to grow the Healthcare Sector in TGA, we have made great progress in the last few years and I have every confidence this will only increase.
Why did you join this company?
The feel of the company was important to me, so I like the family feel of TGA along with the support you are provided by everyone at every level.
I was also offered the opportunity to help develop the Healthcare sector of TGA and the support I have been given for this has been really positive.
What area of engineering are you most interested in, and why?
I enjoy the whole process of design, from concept through to the final construction. I like to see a project through from the initial ideas and work through the design and challenges to provide a high quality final installation which meets the needs of the client.
How do you keep up with the latest changes to engineering codes and regulations?
CIBSE, Health Estate Journal, iHEEM events, networking and general exchange of knowledge within the industry.
How often do you update training/how do you to ensure you are informed on the latest engineering developments/latest software programs?
I ensure that I am always working to the latest design standards, including regulations and HTM / HBN documents and NHS standards and policies.
Within TGA we keep up to date with software changes and have in house seminars and CPDs on the latest manufacturer developments and products, I ensure that all of my accreditations are kept up to date and re-train when necessary to maintain the accreditations.
How do you handle a last-minute shift in goals when much of the work is already completed?
As calmly as possible – working in healthcare you become adapt at working at speed in an ever changing and challenging environment. You always need to be prepared for change, but you can try as best as you can to limit the likelihood of change happening by continually involving the design team and client in design development and ensuring you are aware of all the decisions within the other disciplines which could influence the engineering.
