Board of Engineering of Trinidad and Tobago

23/10/2025

Returning Home to Make a Difference – The Journey of Prof. Sanjay Bahadoorsingh

Eng. Prof. Bahadoorsingh, H.B.M
The BOETT speaks with Prof. Sanjay Bahadoorsingh, APETT’s Fenrick R. DeFour Award recipient, on mentorship, national standards, and his lifelong commitment to advancing Caribbean engineering.
APETT’s FENRICK R. DeFOUR AWARD is conferred on a member in recognition of outstanding Engineering Achievement. This Award was conferred on Engineer Professor Sanjay Bahadoorsingh H.B.M. He is a distinguished academic and practicing engineer, holding a B.Sc. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from The University of The West Indies (UWI), an M.Sc. in Power Systems Engineering and Economics from the University of Manchester Institute of Science & Technology (UMIST), and a Ph.D. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from The University of Manchester (UoM).
He is the Professor of Power Systems and Sustainable Energy at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine and has previously served as Head, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Deputy Dean for Enterprise Development and Outreach, Faculty of Engineering.

Professor Bahadoorsingh is a Registered Engineer with the Board of Engineering of Trinidad and Tobago (BOETT) and is recognized as a High Voltage Testing Engineer by the GEI. He has an extensive portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, numerous technical presentations and a wealth of industry-focused technical reports developed through his work as a local and regional consultant.
Professor Bahadoorsingh holds several key positions related to standards and policy-making in Trinidad and Tobago. As Chairman of the National Technical Committee for Electrical Codes at the TTBS and President of the IEC National Electrotechnical Committee Affiliate Country Programme, he oversees the local development of electrical standards.

He is also a director and inaugural Chairman of the TTMAG for the registration of (.tt) domain names and was an inaugural director of The Angostura Foundation and was a Member of the Board of Trustees of COSTAATT.
In 2024, he was awarded the Hummingbird Medal (H.B.M) Gold in the spheres of Engineering and Education for his loyal and devoted service to Trinidad and Tobago. Eng. Professor Bahadoorsingh currently serves as the Chairman of the joint APETT / BOETT Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Committee which plays a critical role in fostering the professional growth and competency of engineers
After studying abroad, Prof. Bahadoorsingh chose to return to Trinidad and Tobago to help shape the nation’s energy future, proving that world-class engineering thrives right here in the Caribbean.

Q1. Congratulations on receiving APETT’s Fenrick R. DeFour Award for Outstanding Engineering Achievement. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

This award is deeply humbling. Personally, it reaffirms the value of perseverance and dedication to excellence…in everything. Professionally, this recognition reflects the collective support, encouragement and guidance of the many people and communities who have been part of my journey thus far.

Q2. Looking back at your career journey, what would you consider to be the most significant engineering achievement that contributed to this award?

There is no one most significant achievement, there are many. This award feels like a celebration of collective progress. From mentoring students who now lead sustainable energy projects regionally to planning grid modernization efforts amidst growing presence of renewable energy and electric vehicles, electrical codes and standards developments as well as engineering solutions that are both innovative and contextual to the Caribbean landscape. It’s everything I have been involved with.

Q3. Were there any particular challenges or turning points in your career that shaped the direction of your work in power systems and sustainable energy?

Whilst abroad I quickly recognized that the talent we have locally is just as good and even better than the talent that exists overseas. So, I remained committed to returning home to make a positive difference and contribute to addressing challenges that faced the region.

Q4. Your academic background spans top-tier institutions in the UK and the Caribbean. How have these diverse academic experiences influenced your approach to engineering education and research?

As highlighted earlier, that experience reinforced a powerful truth: though we come from small island developing states, our engineering ingenuity and ability to develop cost-effective, sustainable solutions prove that we are not just capable but leaders in innovation. Our unique challenges demand creativity and our approach demonstrates that 'small' does not limit excellence; our engineers are sharper because of it. Throughout my education and research journey, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with brilliant minds, forging lifelong friendships and professional bonds. These experiences have not only shaped my perspectives but also strengthened my confidence in taking bold, principled stands.

Q5. With your extensive portfolio of peer-reviewed publications and technical reports, how do you balance academic research with the practical demands of industry consulting?

I treat them as complementary. Industry projects reveal real-world gaps that inspire research questions, while academic rigor ensures solutions are scalable and evidence-based. Time management is key and it is definitely not easy to manage both educator and engineer roles. However, I enjoy it!

Q6. What current research or innovation in the power systems field excites you the most right now, and why?

One of the most exciting frontiers in power systems today is the rapid advancement and application of artificial intelligence for predictive power system management. Particularly for island power systems, AI's ability to forecast renewable generation, anticipate demand fluctuations and prevent cascading failures could revolutionize how we maintain stability amid increasing renewable pe*******on. However, let me curb my enthusiasm, we are not there and not close because we have not embarked on sufficient and relevant upgrades to equip us with the data collection. We do have the prospect of creating microgrids and building resiliency into our island power systems. That is reasonable and practical but we still have progress to make.

Q7. As Chair of the National Technical Committee for Electrical Codes, how do you see the role of national standards shaping engineering practice in Trinidad and Tobago?

National standards play a fundamental and non-negotiable role in engineering practice. Standards are the bedrock for improving safety to protect personnel and property. At times there is no need to re-invent the wheel but we must ensure the standards are relevant to our local landscape accounting for our unique technical, environmental and operational realities. Beyond safety, standards are a mechanism of capacity building to ensure that best practice continues to be employed in very dynamic industries. However, the real challenge lies in maintaining the relevance of our standards which must evolve alongside technological advancements and global trend.

Q8. What are some of the key challenges in harmonizing local electrical codes with international standards through your role with the IEC Affiliate Programme?

Harmonization is no trivial task. There is initial challenge of contextual relevance. International standards like the IEC are developed for a global audience and often assume large, interconnected grids usually located in temperate climates. Our reality in the Caribbean region involves small, island power systems, a tropical environment with high humidity and salt air, vulnerability to natural disasters and a unique mix of industrial, commercial and residential loads. Additionally open access to foreign markets facilitate trade and so blind adoption is not an option. The challenge lies in intelligently considering such standards to our specific conditions without compromising safety, technical integrity and barriers to trade. Then, there’s the issue of technical capacity and training. Aligning with international standards requires updated documents, but also requires engineers, technicians and contractors be trained to implement correctly. This involves significant investment in education, certification programmes and ongoing professional development to bridge knowledge gaps and continue to foster a culture of compliance.

Lastly, keeping pace with rapid technological change is critical. Institutions like the IEC is constantly updating standards with innovations like grid-edge and smart grid technologies, battery storage and electric vehicle charging. For any resource constrained national technical committee, simply keeping abreast of these changes is a task. Then, we must go through our own rigorous technical, administrative and regulatory processes with the many stakeholders, each with distinct priorities. So, achieving consensus and maintaining momentum in the face of bureaucratic inertia is an ongoing challenge. This undoubtedly also contributes to the lag, leaving local industry in a zone where new technology is available but the governing code is not yet updated.

Q9. How do you envision the integration of renewable energy technologies into the national power grid, and what policy reforms would support that vision?

In the Newsday article for Earth Day 2025, I gave this response. It is applicable to this question. To accelerate renewable energy adoption in Trinidad and Tobago, several key policy and regulatory reforms are urgently needed. First, implementing feed-in tariffs or net billing schemes would incentivize distributed solar by ensuring fair compensation for excess energy fed back into the national grid. Second, the further development and enforcement of comprehensive standards for solar PV installations covering safety, grid code for interoperability and performance standards for equipment available in the market. Third, the licensing process for renewable projects must be streamlined and transparent to encourage investments. Additionally, looking ahead the electricity grid access framework should be reviewed to potentially accommodate large power projects through wheeling arrangements. These changes, combined with proactive grid modernization planning would create a regulatory environment that actively supports Trinidad and Tobago’s transition to a cleaner energy future.

Q10. You’ve served in many academic leadership roles at UWI. How do you mentor the next generation of engineers, and what qualities do you think future engineers must develop to succeed?

Mentoring the next generation of engineers is both a privilege and a responsibility that I take seriously. Engineering is practical. Engineering requires the ability to think innovatively outside the conventional boundaries. Engineering is lifelong learning and application to real world present and future problems. Ultimately, I want to ignite in them the same passion that drives me to make a positive difference. Most importantly, I remind students that their technical skills carry profound social responsibility. An engineering degree is not just a personal achievement, it is a license to improve lives and that privilege comes with non-negotiable ethical obligations.

Q11. What advice would you give to young engineers who aspire to make a lasting impact in both academia and industry?

First recognize, the goal is not to have two careers, but to forge one unique path where each domain informs and elevates the other. The greatest leverage lies at the intersection of discovery and application, so academia and industry complement each other. Develop depth in your technical discipline, this is your core credibility in academia. It starts by pursuing solutions to address tangible industry problems. These projects become the bridge between theory and practice and often lead to the most impactful publications and industry solutions. You must foster additional appreciation and skills in project management and finance, communication and governance. This breadth allows you to translate technical work into meaningful real-world impact. Most importantly embrace and demonstrate ethical leadership, advocating for sustainable and equitable solutions, especially in difficult situations. This is non-negotiable. In the professional world, your reputation is your brand. Protect it above all else.

Q12. How do you hope your contributions will influence the development of engineering in the Caribbean region in the years ahead?

This is a difficult question but I am hoping through the next generations of engineers that I can inspire leave a legacy of individuals ready to serve and put others ahead of themselves.

Q13. What continues to motivate you to stay active in such a wide range of professional and academic roles?

Quite simply, I enjoy it. But more deeply, my motivation stems from the tangible impact of developing our nation and region, the intellectual vitality of continuous cross-disciplinary learning and a profound responsibility to mentor the next generation to elevate the Caribbean. This commitment to home is deeply personal. After completing my studies overseas, I never wavered in my decision to return. As a patriot, being where I belong, doing what I enjoy where it matters most, is all the motivation I need.

Q14. When you're not immersed in engineering, research, or policy, what activities help you maintain balance in life?

When I’m not working, my favorite job is being a dad to my nine-year-old daughter. Whether I'm assisting her with crafting, shuttling her to extracurricular activities, or helping out with school events, those moments are precious. My family has always been my foundation, so I cherish the time with my mother, who has been an unwavering support and my brother, who has always been the best company. I also enjoy staying involved in my church and volunteering where I can. I like being connected to and giving back to the community that has given me so much. Around the house, I’m the go-to person for any DIY project. I get genuine satisfaction from eventually making repairs or spending sometime tinkering with the car. It is hands on engineering without the paperwork! When it’s time to unwind, I appreciate a good lime with close friends, watching TKR, Windies cricket, or a football match and fun conversations. But nothing beats a relaxing trip to one of Tobago’s beautiful beaches, that’s where I can truly disconnect and recharge.

Q15. Finally, looking forward, are there any personal goals or professional frontiers you still hope to explore?

I plan to just keep going and serving. The journey is far from over. There’s much to do, whether it’s mentoring the next generation of engineers, supporting the transition to renewable energy and low carbon transport across the region, or contributing to safer, smarter infrastructure. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a meaningful difference and I remain committed to answering that call for as long as I can.

23/10/2025

Advice to Young and Aspiring Professional
Engineers
Vaughn I. Lezama, R. Eng., Registrar BOETT
Every journey into the engineering profession begins with curiosity—about how things work,
how systems can improve, and how we might build a better future. For young and aspiring
engineers in Trinidad and Tobago, this journey is also one of responsibility: to learn, to grow, and
ultimately to serve society.
The Board of Engineering of Trinidad and Tobago (BOETT) has the privilege of guiding this
journey. Our role is not only to regulate professional standards but also to inspire young
engineers to pursue excellence, integrity, and innovation as they move toward full professional
status.
Why Engineers Matter
We don’t always see them, but engineers are everywhere. From the bridges that carry us to work,
to the energy that powers our homes, to the digital infrastructure that connects us—engineers
play a vital, if often invisible, role in daily life. In a country like ours, where sustainable
infrastructure and renewable energy are critical to national development, engineers carry a
profound responsibility.
That is why the BOETT urges young professionals to recognize their careers not simply as jobs,
but as vocations that shape society. Engineering is about solving problems, but it is also about
protecting lives, preserving resources, and enabling progress.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
For new graduates, the degree is only the beginning. The real learning happens in the field—on
job sites, in design offices, and through collaboration with others. Engineering is a profession
built on experience, trial and error, and mentorship. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn,
every mistake a chance to grow stronger.
Yet technical knowledge alone is not enough. Today’s engineers must combine proficiency with
ethics, communication, and adaptability. A brilliant design means little if it is unsafe, poorly
explained, or disconnected from the needs of the community it is meant to serve.
Celebrating Young Engineers
At the BOETT, we believe in shining a light on the achievements of our young engineers.
Through spotlight interviews and public recognition, we share their stories—their challenges,
successes, and lessons learned. These stories matter. They inspire peers, encourage students, and
remind us all that perseverance and integrity can take us far.

Behind every success story is a simple truth: excellence in engineering comes from passion, hard
work, and a willingness to learn from others.
A Compendium of Advice
To help guide the next generation, the BOETT offers the following advice. While written for
engineers, these lessons apply to any young professional aiming for excellence:
1. Never stop learning. Your degree is only the beginning. Stay curious, keep updating
your knowledge, and embrace new technologies.
2. Communicate clearly. Engineers must explain complex ideas to people who are not
technical. Learn to write, speak, and listen effectively.
3. Guard your integrity. Always prioritize safety, quality, and the public good. Ethics is
the foundation of trust.
4. Find mentors. Seek out experienced professionals. Their guidance can help you avoid
pitfalls and seize opportunities.
5. Collaborate across disciplines. The best solutions often come from teamwork that
crosses boundaries—between engineers, architects, economists, and others.
6. Stay adaptable. Engineering changes rapidly. Embrace new tools, methods, and ideas to
remain relevant.
7. Build networks. Join professional bodies such as APETT. Attend seminars, workshops,
and forums. Relationships can open doors and spark new ideas.
8. Take ownership. Set career goals, pursue leadership opportunities, and assert your place
in the profession by registering with the BOETT.
9. Embrace challenges. Don’t shy away from hard problems. They are the stepping stones
to growth and innovation.
10. Remember the bigger picture. Engineering impacts society and the environment. Ask
yourself: Does my work make life better for others?
The Road Ahead
The next generation of engineers will face challenges that are bigger and more complex than
ever before—climate change, sustainability, digital transformation, and global competition. But
these challenges are also opportunities to shape the future of Trinidad and Tobago in bold,
positive ways.
To every young and aspiring engineer, know this: your work matters. Your voice matters. And
your commitment to learning, ethics, and excellence will define not just your career, but the
society we all live in.
The BOETT stands ready to guide and support you on this journey. The rest is up to you.

02/10/2025

https://newsday.co.tt/2025/10/02/learning-beyond-the-classroom-2/

For young and aspiring engineers in TT, this journey is also one of responsibility: to learn, grow, and ultimately, to serve society.

26/09/2025

Engineering Leadership with Integrity: Lessons from Engineer Sandra Sammy’s Lifelong Commitment to Professional Service

Engineer Sandra Sammy, BSc, MSc, R.Eng, FAPETT

Engineer Sandra Sammy has been honoured with the RVS Aleong Award for Outstanding Service to APETT, a well-deserved recognition of her decades of dedicated service to the engineering profession in Trinidad and Tobago and across the Caribbean.
A Fellow of the Association of Professional Engineers of Trinidad and Tobago (APETT) and a Registered Civil Engineer with the Board of Engineering of Trinidad and Tobago (BOETT), Sandra has consistently demonstrated leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to advancing engineering excellence.
Her journey with APETT began in 1985 and has been defined by years of selfless contribution in key leadership roles including Vice President, Public Relations Officer, and Assistant Treasurer. Beyond APETT, she has extended her impact on national development by representing the Association on the WASA Board’s Water Resources Management Committee (1988), reflecting her advocacy for sustainable infrastructure and responsible resource management.
Regionally, Sandra’s influence has been equally profound through her long-standing involvement with the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA), where she served in numerous capacities—Treasurer, Secretary, Trinidad and Tobago Chapter Leader, Board Member, and Executive Council Member—shaping policy and practice in water and wastewater management across the Caribbean.
Her distinguished career is a testament to what passionate, purposeful, and principled engineering leadership can achieve. Few careers embody service and leadership as profoundly as that of Engineer Sandra Sammy. In this Chat with the BOETT she shares what this recognition means, the defining moments of her APETT journey, and her vision for the next generation of engineers.
Q1. Congratulations on receiving the RVS ALEONG Award for outstanding service to APETT. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?
Well, I am now retired from Engineering Practice but that does not mean that an award such as this does not have value. I think it goes a long way to encourage the younger engineers to contribute, as it indicates that their efforts are being noticed or better still appreciated.
Q2. Looking back, what moments or milestones in your APETT journey stand out as defining or especially meaningful?
When we elected our first female President and when we finally got the Board of Engineering in place, as that was very long fought endeavour. The very significant role APETT and BOETT played in getting the Commission of inquiry into the Airport Project.
Q3. You’ve served APETT in numerous capacities since 1985. How have you seen the organization evolve over the years?
I am not aware of any drastic changes in the organization over the years and I am not saying that’s a bad thing. Long standing values and traditions are important and valuable to our profession.
Q4. What motivated you to dedicate so much of your time and expertise to professional service, even while managing your responsibilities as a practicing civil engineer?
I was proud to be an Engineer and honoured to be a member of APETT; I wanted others new to the profession to understand the benefits from belonging to a professional organization. It was not unselfish, it helped in my job in many ways. It directly exposed one to the more experienced Engineers and there was a lot to learn from them.
Q5. How did your roles as Vice President, Public Relations Officer, and Assistant Treasurer shape your perspective on leadership and service within the engineering profession?
In so many ways, I learned to appreciate more than the steel and concrete, one gets the bigger view, it teaches about policy making and appreciate the impacts of everyday decisions.
Q6. Can you share more about your experience representing APETT on WASA’s Water Resources Management Committee in 1988, and the impact of that role?
This was a great opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself, to influence policy that affects everyone, and the great responsibility that comes with it.
Q7. You have also contributed significantly through the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA). How important is regional collaboration in addressing water and infrastructure challenges in the Caribbean?
We, Trinis, always consider ourselves as leaders in the Caribbean and it was the same in the water sector. Initially CWWA was a forum to share expertise with water infrastructure and prepared us to help each other when disaster struck, like hurricanes and volcanic eruptions, we knew the personnel in the other countries.
Q8. What were some of the key issues or accomplishments during your time on the CWWA Executive Council and other committees
The role of CWWA grew as we were able to come together to influence global policy on Climate Change. We assisted with the use of desalination in the region. Organisations from Florida USA attended our conferences and sought our advice on water supply options.
We even got the UN to declare Pan American Water Day in October as the rest of the world celebrates World Water Day on 22 March each year
Q9. As a trailblazer and Fellow of APETT, what advice would you offer to young engineers—especially women—who are considering leadership roles in the profession?
Preserve, speak your piece even when you feel unheard, and know that there will be times when you will be ignored simply because you are female, do not let that deter you from the overall objective
Q10. Were there any mentors or colleagues who particularly influenced your professional journey and volunteerism?
Many throughout the years, I will not mention my cohorts here but I think I must mention some of the older engineers like Leo Martin, Merlyvin Sankeralli, Hollis Charles, Emile Charles, Fenwick Defour, Carl Defour, Clem Imbert, Peter Styles, Ronald Williams, Emmanuel Romain, Winston Suite and Winston Riley; Leo Lawson from Jamaica and others from the wider Caribbean region as well.
Q11. In what ways do you hope your service and contributions will inspire the next generation of engineers in Trinidad and Tobago and the wider region?
Any contribution to our professional organisations is never wasted, I believe that the influence goes beyond our own expectations, we cannot always comprehend the full extent of who and how it impacts, just know that it does. Only recently my cousin, a civil engineer in Canada, told me that I influenced his career choice. I never suspected.

Q12. What do you believe are the most pressing challenges or opportunities for engineering leadership today, and how should professional organizations like APETT respond?
There’s only one way to identify the challenges, opportunities, JUST ASK your current members as well as the Engineers who have not joined the Organisation. Most importantly ask your clients
Q13. What has been the most rewarding part of your decades-long involvement with APETT and other engineering bodies?
Seeing the younger professionals take up the mantle with pride and conviction that it is worth it. Knowing that while I was part of these Organisations: APETT, BOETT, CWWA for a short while that they will be here long after I am gone.
Q14. Is there a project, initiative, or committee experience that you feel especially proud of or emotionally connected to?
The formation of CWWA, I started as the treasurer on the Steering Committee with 125 EC dollars.
Q15. Finally, now that you’ve received this award, what’s next for you in terms of your continued involvement in engineering or public service?
I have not yet decided but as the need arises. Currently I volunteer in the Pantry of Grace Methodist Church, Houston Heights

03/09/2025

Celebrating Excellence in Engineering: Dr. Ian Khan-Kernahan on His APETT Career of Excellence Award

Eng. Dr. Ian Khan-Kernahan BSc, MSc, BSc, PhD, REng, FAPETT

A Chat with Engineer Dr. Ian Khan-Kernahan , APETT’s prestigious Career of Excellence Awardee

Engineer Dr. Ian Khan-Kernahan is a distinguished civil engineer whose career spans over four decades in professional practice, academia, and consultancy. He holds degrees in Mathematics from Queen Mary, University of London, and in Civil Engineering from The University of the West Indies, where he later earned his PhD and served as Lecturer in Civil and Environmental Engineering for more than 30 years. As Director of Trinstruct Services Limited, he has contributed extensively to bridge and structural design across the Caribbean—having designed nearly 100 bridges, including the landmark Naparima-Mayaro crossing of the Ortoire River and the restoration of the historic Marianne suspension bridge. His professional service also extends to major housing and infrastructure projects that have improved community connectivity and access. A respected researcher and author, Dr. Khan-Kernahan continues to advance knowledge in structural and bridge engineering, making him a truly worthy recipient of APETT’s Career of Excellence Award.

Q1. Congratulations on receiving APETT’s Career of Excellence Award for Exceptional Contribution to the Engineering Profession. How did you feel when you learned you were selected for this prestigious honour?
I was pleasantly surprised. Indeed, I am very grateful that bridge engineering was acknowledged by the Awards Committee.

Q2. Looking back over your 45-year career, what personal or professional milestones stand out most in your memory?
I was employed at the Min. of Works when Prof. Phelps recruited me to join the staff of the Civil Eng. Dept. at UWI. Eleven years later I earned a Ph.D. for developing a computational method (semi-grillage) of analysing bridge decks. That was a personal milestone.
At a professional level, my involvement in the MOWT Roads and Bridges Rehabilitation Programme (Year 3, 2002) gave me the greatest satisfaction. A team of two, Eng. Tim Stiff and myself, inspected 96 bridges. Of these, forty (40) were selected for total reconstruction and one for partial reconstruction. I was the structural design engineer for these bridges. The detailed designs were finished in 18 months. Looking back, this was probably my finest moment as a bridge engineer. And I earned recognition as a specialist bridge engineer. A fuller account of the programme is described in the West Indies Journal of Engineering (WIJE) paper: “Assessment and Reconstruction of Bridges in Trinidad and Tobago (2013)”.

Q3. What initially drew you to engineering after starting your academic journey in mathematics, and how did that transition shape your engineering outlook?
Growing up, I was always good with my hands. At home, I dabbled in plumbing, carpentry, painting and tiling. In school, I excelled in applied mathematics which is essentially the study of statics, kinematics and dynamics. When I studied mathematics at university (Queen Mary, University of London), I took mostly applied courses: advanced mathematical methods, relativity and quantum mechanics, for example.

I taught mathematics at St. James Secondary School for two years. It was interesting at first but my initial enthusiasm gradually waned; moreover, the salary was not terribly good. Some of my former schoolmates who were now engineers painted a glowing picture of the local job market—challenging work, great salaries and perks. That’s when I decided to pursue engineering at the UWI.

Q4. You’ve designed over 90 bridges across Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean, including the remarkable Naparima-Mayaro Bridge. What do bridges represent to you, beyond their structural function?
Bridges are structures that provide the very expensive foundation of the roadway that they support. A bridge crosses obstacles like rivers, chasms or even other roads, for example. It provides social connectivity. In this way the bridge engineer does social engineering by keeping communities together and allowing them to access and enjoy their surroundings.

Q5. Could you share some of the technical or environmental challenges involved in restoring the historic Marianne Suspension Bridge, and what it meant to you personally to work on such a landmark?
The Marianne River bridge was originally designed as a single span unstiffened suspension bridge. The wire rope (flexible cable) changes its form under moving loads, light vehicles, creating large vibrations—hence the name Spring Bridge. First, a Mabey & Johnson bridge was installed upstream of this bridge to cater for vehicular traffic. Work then began on preparing a full rehabilitation scheme for upgrading, as far as possible, the Spring Bridge superstructure to modern engineering standards. In particular, it was agreed that the bridge should be stiffened without significantly altering the appearance and diminishing the character of the bridge.

The main technical challenge was selecting details for the wire rope terminations. After researching these connections, it was decided to reuse the existing spelter sockets that anchored the main cables to the towers. Standard U-bolt clips were used to attach the suspenders (smaller diameter vertical cables) whose ends were fitted with closed swage sockets. The stiffening steel I-beam was then attached using galvanized U-bolts with sufficiently long threaded arms to allow adjustments. The contractor, Amnesty Construction, did an excellent job. I should add that the towers were also dismantled and reassembled using new components and round head bolts instead of rivets.

Q6. What advances in bridge engineering have you seen during your career, and how have these influenced your own design methods or preferences?
When I graduated from the UWI, the local industry was in a state of transition between the allowable stress method and the load and resistance factor method (LRFD) of design of structures. We used mostly manual calculations, design aids and approximate idealisations in the analysis. Nowadays, commercial software is used to rapidly model, analyse and design complex structures.

For conceptual design and preliminary analysis, I still use approximate methods of analysis. I will then use commercial analysis for a refined analysis. The actual design of elements will be done using validated spreadsheets. I perform an extensive validation of any spreadsheet that I have written. This takes time as it requires the sourcing of suitable benchmark problems by experts.

A large proportion of our bridge stock consists of reinforced concrete box culverts with spans ranging from 6m to 12m. I have used the exact stiffness matrix of a beam on elastic foundation to analyse the AASHTO equivalent 2D closed frame. The method is incorporated in a spreadsheet. I use it to rapidly design these structures. The results are validated using commercial software. It is my hope that an arrangement can be made to pass on the spreadsheet to the Ministry of Works.
Q7. You spent over three decades at UWI shaping young minds. What philosophies or teaching approaches did you find most effective in nurturing future engineers?
Well times have certainly changed. We have gone from chalk-and-talk to PowerPoint presentations in the classroom. I didn’t change. I posted the lecture notes on the net. The students were expected to read these, come to class and ask questions and annotate the notes as I developed the subject matter on the whiteboard.

Model building was introduced as part of the first-year course in design. One such exercise required groups of students to construct an unbonded prestressed beam out of Styrofoam cubes and rubber bands. Matchsticks were used as the anchors. The groups had to describe the behaviour of the model while loading it with coins during a class presentation. There were almost always very interesting discussions about how interface shear (friction) resisted the applied vertical load. The feedback from the students was generally very positive.

Q8. Your papers explore computational methods in structural engineering. How do you see the role of computation and simulation evolving in structural design today?
Structural design requires an idealization of the proposed structure—building, bridge or retaining wall. Ideally, this should start at the conceptual design stage. The goal is to create a simple mathematical model that will realistically predict the behaviour of the actual structure under the intended loads. Engineers will be guided mainly by experience and codes to select appropriate structural systems. And it is important to document the chosen idealisation in the engineering report, drawings and calculations. Everyone should be made aware of the assumptions, especially when checking a computer-based model.

Engineers must idealise materials as well. They do this by using stress-strain relationships, modulus values and strength capacities. For concrete, linear elastic models apply until cracking. For steel, bilinear idealisation represents elastic and plastic behaviour.
Soil-structure interaction is becoming more prevalent in structural models. This usually requires an expensive geotechnical investigation to assess the relevant translational and rotational stiffnesses. Engineers will have to decide whether simple text-book boundary conditions—pinned, fixed or rollers—can be used instead.

Traditional computer-based methods have transformed structural analysis landscape for the last fifty years. Software has been developed to successfully treat with various well-defined structural systems. The software is updated to reflect advances in engineering knowledge and digital hardware. Some of the software is so advanced that it relegates the user to “pushing buttons” to get an “answer”.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems are gradually being developed that learn from their database(s). These may soon become commonplace in areas like weld inspection and concrete cylinder tests, for example, where more reliable machine vision is used.
Q9. How important is it, in your view, for engineers to be both practitioners and contributors to technical literature, as you have been throughout your career?
I think it is very important for practitioners to share their knowledge and real-world experience. They provide insight into the construction industry and engineering practice. Writing technical journal papers can be very time consuming and demanding of rigour. Reviewers’ comments have to be addressed before the paper is accepted for publication. The peer review process is quite demanding, if not intimidating, as most academics will tell you.
The alternative is conference papers and presentations. Practitioners get the opportunity to showcase their expertise while getting real-time feedback. Case studies that show the application of new / innovative methods of tackling practical problems will keep the construction industry animated. And, in my opinion, most employers tend to support the participation of knowledgeable engineers in activities that highlight their business model.

At the end of the day, it is incumbent on engineers to find ways to share their knowledge. It is the most helpful and valuable thing that we can do.
Q10. Tell us about your role as the principal structural engineer on housing development projects in Trinidad and Tobago—what innovations did you apply, and what were some key lessons learned?
Most of the mass housing projects were contractor driven. For example, at Opropune Phase IV the contractor used FORSA aluminium formwork. The mock-ups of the repetitive units allowed the construction team to verify the accuracy of every detail of the design. By creating a full-scale model, we were able to eliminate errors very early in the planning stage. I visited the factory in Colombia to perform an inspection.

The formwork creates a monolithic reinforced concrete structure—walls and floors. We were able to use a load bearing shear wall system supported on a post-tensioned floor slab for the various building types.
In some instances, a concrete roof slab of the multi-storey buildings was also used. This protected the interior of the building and permitted an early start to the finishing work. A light GI roof was then added for aesthetic and drainage reasons. Flat concrete roofs can be made water-resistant, but they are prone to leaking with time.
Q11. Post-tension technology and raft foundations are critical in certain soils and geologies. What are some of the local conditions in Trinidad and Tobago that necessitate these design approaches?
It is a popular misconception that post-tensioned ground slabs are primarily used in expansive soils where the movement of the soil is significant. This movement is non- uniform and so the foundation must be suitably stiffened and reinforced to resist the differential movement. A post-tensioned slab minimizes and controls cracking. Its strength and enhanced stiffness diminish any flexural deformation.

I have used uniform thickness unbonded post-tensioned slabs-on-ground in housing developments to support buildings up to four storeys. It’s a shallow foundation that eliminates the need for trenching to place a grid of ground beams. That’s really convenient, especially in the rainy season. It was used to great advantage in Oropune where the soil is relatively compressible resulting in a low bearing capacity of around 40kN/m2. The geotechnical investigation did not indicate the likelihood of differential movement. It is worth repeating here that post-tensioned slabs are more ductile and crack resistant than conventional reinforced concrete slabs. This leads to greater durability and lower maintenance costs.

Q12. Through Trinstruct Services Limited, how are you continuing to shape civil infrastructure development in the region?
Civil engineering consulting is just one cog in the wheel. In Trinidad, we have the National Planning Authority, who should provide the guidance that shapes the development. It is my hope that the NPA will co-opt the APETT when they finally get around to publishing an up-to-date development plan. Similar sentiments apply to our regional partners.

Q13. What are the biggest engineering challenges facing infrastructure development in the Caribbean today, and how can local engineers rise to meet them?
Infrastructure development depends on the health of the regional construction industry. The construction literature generally paints a picture of stagnation and/or decline over the last few years. In Trinidad and Tobago, public sector infrastructure projects have been plagued by time and cost overruns. Indeed, there have been cases of failure during construction and, quite often, the intended service life. This suggests that insufficient attention is paid to developing proper feasibility studies and preliminary / baseline designs for assessing future scenarios (impacts) and budgetary allocations. Needless to say, the public’s confidence in the procurement process is eroded.

In Trinidad, I have seen an increasing trend to replace the FIDIC Red Book with the Yellow Book for the construction of roads and bridges. A Yellow Book contract allows the Contractor to design and build the works for a lump-sum payment. The Red Book would have required the Employer to do the designs and then hire a Contractor, who is generally paid on a measurement basis. So, under the Red Book, the Employer must carry out at least a preliminary design study before assessing the cost of the planned works.
Q14. What advice would you give to young engineers hoping to build a career as impactful and multifaceted as yours—especially those passionate about infrastructure and bridge design?
One only has to take a look at a typical job description of a civil engineer to realise that it is a multi-faceted profession. Very early specialism in one’s career can lead to narrow interests and stunted growth. It can very often, in my opinion, limit one’s value in projects that require a broader understanding of various disciplines. Bridge engineering requires, but is not limited to, knowledge of highway engineering, structural mechanics, soil mechanics, hydrology and hydraulics. This broad knowledge allowed me to seamlessly transition to doing the structural engineering for mass housing schemes.

It's a long journey to achieve success and recognition in civil engineering. The satisfaction that awaits is worth the effort.

Q15. Finally, as you look to the future, what legacy do you hope your work will leave for both the engineering profession and the communities your projects have served?
My academic / professional contribution will be documented in the papers that I have written. The more lasting contribution to society will be all the bridges that I have designed. And in the shorter term, lots of people will have benefitted from the affordable housing units in Oropune, Goya and Santa Rosa. I hope that will be part of my legacy.