Meet Andrew, a senior decarbonisation consultant in our transport sector.
Andrew specialises in delivering infrastructure that's more sustainable, efficient and beneficial to local communities.
What led you to your career at Costain?
"My career in construction began as a site labourer before later starting a carpentry apprenticeship. While working on various large timber frame projects, I developed a strong fascination for structural engineering principles, which subsequently led me to acquire an academic understanding. Without A-levels, I was able to pursue a Higher National Diploma (HND) at the University of South Wales, as a pathway to a BSc in Civil and Structural Engineering. That later led me to obtain a work experience opportunity in Swansea, close to where I live. This experience inspired me to pursue a career within Costain, and after a period of work experience, I was accepted onto Costain’s graduate scheme."
How does your role contribute to improving people’s lives?
"Drawing on my construction background, technical expertise, and PhD in low-carbon concrete, my role as a senior decarbonisation & constructability consultant enables me to influence infrastructure outcomes. Operating within the early contractor involvement phase, I apply PAS 2080 principles, the leading standard for carbon management achieved by Costain, to drive down carbon usage on a project while ensuring that proposed solutions are practical, buildable, and resource-efficient.
"By integrating decarbonisation and constructability principles, I help deliver infrastructure that’s more sustainable, efficient, and beneficial to the communities it serves."
What’s your biggest professional achievement and why?
"Whilst working in London for several years on Costain’s projects supporting the delivery of London Bridge Station and Crossrail, I was still studying my masters in South Wales. For two years, I had to travel back weekly to attend lectures, which was challenging but ultimately rewarding to combine working on these fascinating projects and completing my studies.
"More recently, I was delighted to complete my PhD in low-carbon concrete while balancing a busy work and family life, including raising a baby, teaching, and renovating a new house."
What do you enjoy most about working at Costain?
"The opportunity to make a real impact, combining innovation, sustainability, and collaboration to shape and improve infrastructure across the UK."
What have you learned / what has inspired you during your time at Costain?
"Being part of a forward-thinking team that values both technical excellence and purpose-driven outcomes is incredibly rewarding.
"I have also significantly developed my professional skillset. Costain has supported my growth, first from a hands-on construction labourer to undertaking advanced research, and now into a role where I influence early-stage decisions that support constructability and a decarbonised UK."
What advice would you give to someone starting out in their career?
"Follow your passion. This has kept me motivated for years and has been the key to getting where I am today. I never had a grand plan, I’ve just done what I enjoyed and given it everything I had."
Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn or search our careers page to learn about our current job opportunities.