Peter O’Connor has over two decades of experience spanning the energy, power, minerals and waste sectors, having worked on a diverse range of projects across Europe throughout his career. He combines technical expertise with a passion for mentoring early-career team members and delivering impactful projects that contribute to Ireland’s energy transition and sustainability goals.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I started off with passion and fascination with maps and geography. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but then I went to an open evening for a surveying course in Dublin. I always loved the idea of working outdoors rather than being stuck behind a desk. The course opened doors to travel across Europe, working on surveying different projects through Erasmus and similar summer schemes between third level institutes.

I started my career in a company that specialised in mineral surveying. From there, I began working on various projects, which gradually led me to focus on energy and power. I’ve certainly had my share of experiences in the field — many of which include challenging site and weather conditions.

Initially, I was directly involved with mineral exploration, management and extraction projects. This progressed to managing mineral waste, which eventually transitioned into commercial and industrial waste projects and nudged my career into the world of the circular economy. I’ve been directly involved in projects where we reduce waste, manage resources and harness energy, and now work on a range of thermal and renewable energy generation sector projects. It’s interesting to witness how interconnected these elements are in our industry, a true circular economy and the challenges that the modern world brings with it. Joining ArchTam was a perfect fit and the role allowed me to combine my expertise in energy and power sectors, with my ability to mentor early-career professionals while allowing me to become a trusted advisor for clients.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

One of the most rewarding projects I’ve worked on is the Kilroot Power Station project in Northern Ireland. The project kicked off shortly before the first coronavirus lockdown in 2020 and involved transitioning a coal-fired power station to gas, which required pre-application work for a gas pipeline connection and integrating advanced technology. It wasn’t without its challenges — lockdowns, social distance site visits and a challenging programme managing a large multi-disciplinary environmental team was part of the job — but seeing the project secure consent, constructed and go live was incredibly fulfilling and rewarding. The early-career team members were excited about the projects as well, because they knew that the client was invested, and they could see the full project lifecycle — design to consenting to construction through to implementation — be delivered in a relatively short period of time. Our team’s environmental expertise and robust Environmental Statement and support to the planning process ensured the project itself contributed to cleaner energy solutions in the region and is a great example of how our work can make a real difference.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Many of the projects I work on are large‑scale in nature, and as a result, their impact is both far‑reaching and undeniable. Our clients are deeply committed to strengthening energy security during a critical transitional period on the journey toward net zero. Being part of this work — especially at a time when the industry is navigating such complex challenges and ambitious sustainability goals — feels genuinely meaningful.

Knowing that our contributions help keep essential services running, support long‑term resilience, and ultimately play a role in keeping the lights on is incredibly rewarding. There is also a strong sense of purpose in recognising how this work supports wider economic growth, both by enabling the energy sector to operate efficiently and by helping create the conditions for future investment and innovation. The scale and significance of these projects make the work both motivating and fulfilling.

Share a piece of career advice.

My advice to anyone starting their career is to embrace opportunities and stay adaptable. It’s okay not to know exactly what you want to do early on so expose yourself to as many different experiences as possible and don’t pigeonhole yourself too soon. Never stop challenging yourself, always be open to adapt your skill set and keep your professional development forefront of your personal and professional goals. With that in mind, I encourage early-career team members to work towards relevant chartership and professional memberships early in their career. Listen to your peers, absorb as much knowledge as you can, and focus on building strong relationships.

I often encourage early‑career team members to talk to everyone. When you’re on a site visit, take the time to chat with — and really listen to — the people on site or in the office. These conversations help you understand exactly what stakeholders and clients need.

Our Impact Assessment team collaborates with a wide variety of clients and technical teams, and sometimes we’re the face of those teams on projects. Remember: the early‑career professionals of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and the connections you build now will be invaluable throughout your career.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Peter O’Connor  appeared first on Blog.

At SME MineXchange 2026, Amber co-chaired a session titled “Reclaiming the Past: Strategies for Managing Abandoned Mine Lands”. When more than 6,000 mining professionals gathered, the industry’s momentum was unmistakable. Yet in her session, a different story unfolded, one centered on legacy, responsibility and the scale of work still ahead.

The scale of the challenge came into sharp focus
The tone across the session was clear: despite decades of progress, abandoned mine lands (AMLs) across the U.S. remain a vast challenge. Presenters showcased characterization studies across watersheds in states like Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma that showed ongoing impacts from historic lead and zinc mining. Others discussed uranium mine waste assessments, underscoring both environmental risk and the complex regulatory pathways associated with radioactive materials.

The consensus was consistent. Thousands of abandoned sites remain, and clarity on how to remediate them is limited.

Remining waste is becoming a major area of interest
An emerging theme was the growing momentum around examining historic mine waste for critical and rare earth minerals. As demand rises for metals essential to clean energy and technology supply chains, several presenters focused on:

• Assessing waste piles for rare earths
• Evaluating lead zinc districts for byproduct value
• Exploring whether uranium bearing waste could be reprocessed

The idea of remining the past is gaining traction as teams consider whether environmental remediation and mineral recovery can be aligned.

However, the discussion also addressed the practical barriers. Many AML sites are too small for a modern processing plant to be viable. Presenters also emphasized a key caution: disturbing an abandoned waste pile can transfer legal liability to the party that touches it.

The opportunity is real. The risks are too.

The audience kept coming back to one question: who pays?
Funding dominated the presentations and the Q&A. Because most abandoned mines lack a responsible party, remediation relies on inconsistent or limited funding sources. Audience questions repeatedly circled back to:

• Where will funding for reclamation come from?
• How can small sites justify investment?
• What role can re‑mining play in closing the financial gap?

Presenters described the patchwork that currently exists: some state AML programs, occasional federal support, and in rare cases private landowners willing to assume liability. Good Samaritan protections help but are not perfect. Political, financial and regulatory uncertainty was a recurring theme.

New tools are reshaping how teams understand old problems
While many technologies were familiar to the room, one area felt like a clear step forward: remote sensing and advanced investigation techniques. Presenters highlighted:

• Drone based surveys for mapping dangerous or inaccessible terrain
• LiDAR imaging to identify subsidence zones and historic features
• Tracer studies that tracked contaminants from elevated mine workings to downstream watercourses, pinpointing where passive treatment should occur

These tools are transforming site characterisation by improving precision, safety and the clarity of remediation strategies.

Safety closures continue to evolve
One presentation showcased the use of high tensile, flexible wire mesh (such as systems produced by Geobrugg) to close shafts in remote, hard to access areas. These barriers aren’t designed to prevent intentional trespassing, but they significantly reduce the risk of accidental falls, especially during winter recreation when snow can obscure open shafts.

It’s becoming a practical, scalable tool in the AML safety toolkit.

The session reaffirmed long‑standing realities and the value of community
For practitioners with decades of experience, the session largely reinforced trends that have shaped AML work for years: complex liability, funding uncertainties and the slow regulatory progress. Most of the ideas discussed are ones we’ve been talking about for 25 to 30 years.

But the value of the session wasn’t novelty, it was connection. Abandoned mine work is a tight‑knit field, and sessions like this give practitioners space to compare notes, share lessons learned and challenge assumptions. That collaboration remains one of MineXchange’s greatest strengths.

Beyond the session: An industry gearing up for growth
Outside the AML conversation, MineXchange 2026 presented an industry that is both buoyant and evolving. Keynotes stressed the strategic importance of streamlining permitting, which can take a decade or more. Federal recognition of copper and other materials as critical minerals was highlighted as a potential lever to accelerate certain approvals.

With metal prices at historic highs, mining in the U.S. is seeing renewed investment and optimism.

Looking ahead
The session underscored a truth that continues to define AML work: the legacy of historic mining still shapes modern landscapes and addressing it will require both technical innovation and policy clarity. But it also highlighted the opportunities emerging at the intersection of remediation, technology and mineral recovery.

As the industry continues to rise, the past does not need to be a burden. With the right strategies, and the funding and regulatory support to match, it can become a platform for progress.

The post Understanding the scale and complexity of abandoned mine lands appeared first on Blog.

Record investment is reshaping data center delivery

The momentum behind AI data center development continues to accelerate. Big Tech has announced plans to invest an estimated US$660 billion in AI and data center construction in 2026 alone. To put that figure into perspective, the combined annual spend of just four major technology companies now rivals the gross domestic product of countries such as Sweden or Argentina.

With this unprecedented scale of investment, the challenge of delivering data centers on time and on budget is becoming more complex. Access to reliable baseload energy, availability of land with viable power connections, planning approvals and rising local community opposition are all emerging as binding constraints. Against this backdrop, the traditional approach to delivery — siloed optimization of individual projects — is under strain. A different market model may be requisite, one that places greater emphasis on partnerships to build capability, share risk and manage uncertainty.

From project delivery to system‑level risk

As the scale and complexity of data center development increases, the core question is no longer whether the market can build fast enough, but whether existing delivery models are fit for a system defined by long‑term power uncertainty, regulatory volatility and growing community scrutiny. In this context, partnerships and alliances are becoming essential — not simply to accelerate delivery, but to enable the deliberate allocation of technical, financial and regulatory risk across parties over the full life of the asset.

Power uncertainty and the growing risk of stranded assets

In conversations with clients across the value chain, market risk increasingly dominates the discussion, and one theme that surfaces repeatedly is the risk of stranded assets. Data centers and associated infrastructure are often designed for a 30+ year lifespan, yet they are being built amidst significant uncertainty around long-term power demand. Transformational technology shifts, including advances in computing efficiency and the potential emergence of quantum computing, could materially alter future power requirements, challenging the assumptions underpinning today’s capital investment decisions. Regulatory volatility, driven by political change over relatively short cycles, adds another layer of risk to long-term planning. These uncertainties are forcing developers, utilities and capital providers to reconsider whether traditional, single‑party delivery models can adequately manage risk over multi‑decade horizons.

Permitting complexity is now a critical path risk

Permitting is also emerging as a critical constraint on data center growth. There are three layers of approval: federal, state and local. While reform efforts are underway at the federal and state levels, the critical path — time-sensitive approvals that ultimately determine project timelines — increasingly run through local jurisdictions. Permits relating to air, water and energy can take years to secure, even in states with relatively accommodating regulatory frameworks. Many developers report that the complexity of local permitting and approvals can significantly shape project timelines, making close coordination with local authorities crucial for project delivery.

Community scrutiny and the importance of social licence

Alongside permitting, community stakeholder opposition is becoming more pronounced. Concerns around power prices, emissions, water demand and noise levels are prompting greater scrutiny of new developments. This reinforces the need for early, transparent and sustained engagement with local communities. For data center developers, articulating the tangible benefits a project brings to a region — jobs, infrastructure investment and long-term economic value — is central to securing support and maintaining momentum.

Taken together, these pressures raise a fundamental question: what is the most effective way for companies to approach delivery in a rapidly evolving data center ecosystem? As illustrated by the breadth of participants working towards a common goal — from developers and hyperscalers to energy providers, utilities, municipalities, financiers and real estate owners — all parties must come together to share risk and expertise to deliver data centers to the scale that our current and future energy needs demand.

Why partnerships and alliances are becoming essential

Partnerships and alliances are becoming essential, but the nature of these partnerships is changing. The challenge is no longer collaboration for speed or efficiency alone; it is how technical, financial and regulatory risk is allocated across parties over the full life of the asset. Who carries which risks, and for how long, matters more than ever. Successful models will be those that identify natural synergies across the ecosystem and structure partnerships deliberately, with clear risk‑return logic and sufficient flexibility to adapt as market conditions evolve.

The executive takeaway is clear: data center delivery is no longer about optimizing individual projects. It is about structuring the right partnerships early to manage system-level risk across power, permitting, capital and community considerations over decades, not just delivery schedules measured in months.

The post The size of the prize is getting bigger and more complex: The case for partnerships in data center delivery appeared first on Blog.

Eva Kleinert is Associate Director for social impact research at ArchTam with a strong focus on research and evaluation, and commitment to sustainability. Eva leads our Social and Equality Impact team in the UK, and is the technical lead for the monitoring and evaluation of social impacts, design and delivery of primary research, and integration into social research reports and assessments for our Energy and Environment business lines. In addition to her experience at ArchTam, she has five years of experience as a team lead and analyst for the Scottish Government, including as lead analyst for international, Europe and Brexit and senior research manager for the rural economy. She has designed and managed numerous research projects.   

Eva has four years of research experience in gender labor market inequalities, family policies and policy evaluation, applying both quantitative and qualitative methods. She holds a doctorate in comparative social policy from the University of Kent.  

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I’ve always had a strong interest in people’s lives, communities and local economies — how they are affected by policy changes or local developments. My career started as a freelance journalist in Germany, reporting on local issues. That involved many conducted interviews and group discussions, trying to understand how people were impacted on the ground with my recorder and notepad. That experience sparked my curiosity about evidence-based impact assessments.

After completing my master’s degree in the York, UK, I pursued a doctorate in Labour Market Studies at the University of Kent. As an academic, I wanted to look more methodologically into evidence-based impact assessment at a cross-national scale. My research focused on labour market inequalities, particularly how women are less represented in managerial positions. This academic foundation led me to work for the Scottish Government, where I led on research to understand and evaluate Scotland’s rural economy and analysed the impacts of national and European policies on communities. I really enjoyed applying my academic knowledge at a national and regional level and gaining experience as a government social researcher.

Joining ArchTam felt like the perfect next step. I wanted to investigate infrastructure projects — like energy developments and new road networks — shape the lives of people and local communities. I was particularly motivated to contribute to the transition to net zero by assessing social impacts thoroughly. Today, our work involves extensive primary research with community members and a wide range of stakeholders, using structured methodologies. It’s a long way from relying solely on a notepad and a recorder. This approach allows us to produce evidence-based reports, and it’s given me the opportunity to combine my methodological expertise with my passion for community engagement.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

I tend to have two types of favourite projects. First, I love projects with a strong emphasis on primary research. As much as I enjoy desk-based research, I find that the most valuable insights we get are from speaking directly to those affected by new energy infrastructure, road schemes or policy changes.

This can include speaking to businesses, community members and public sector organisations. We conduct a lot of interviews and focus groups, and I find those projects the most interesting because they allow us to test what we learn from literature and evidence reviews against real experiences on the ground. Right now, for example, we are conducting a large research on public attitudes towards energy infrastructure across Great Britain. We’re running a high number of focus groups and backing our findings with representative surveys, ensuring a robust evidence base.

The second type of project I love is the kind that lets me dive deep into spreadsheets, logic models and impact assessments. I try to pin down exactly what is driving a particular impact, determining how best to measure it, and then designing a monitoring framework from the ground up. This involves identifying indicators, creating data collection tools, and analysing the data to measure impacts. It’s a different kind of work, but I find it equally rewarding.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Improving social outcomes is at the heart of everything we do. Whether we’re assessing how policies affect groups with protected characteristics — such as women or ethnic minorities — through equality impact assessments, or examining how new energy infrastructure will shape the lives of coastal communities in Scotland, our work always centres on people and place. These examples illustrate how community impact is the foundation of every project I’m involved in.

We go beyond simply documenting activities, funding or job creation. Instead, we focus on the long‑term effects — asking what meaningful, lasting difference an initiative has made or is likely to make. Using systematic research and evidence‑based methods, we uncover how communities truly experience change.

For instance, in recent research for a client, we engaged directly with coastal communities to understand how new offshore wind developments could affect them. We captured both positive and negative impacts and presented clear, balanced findings in the final report.

When our research highlights that particular groups may be disproportionately affected, we provide targeted, actionable recommendations to address those impacts. A recent project examining proposed changes to bus routes is a good example. We explored how shifts in schedules could affect people from different socio‑economic backgrounds or demographic groups. For example, older adults or others more dependent on public transportation might face greater challenges. By identifying these nuances, we can help clients design fairer, more inclusive solutions.

Share a piece of career advice

My main advice is twofold. Firstly, have confidence in your abilities. Whether you’re tackling a challenging project or navigating a complex situation, trust in your skills and determination to succeed.

Secondly, ask for help when needed. At ArchTam, teamwork is a cornerstone of our success. There’s always someone who can help you get a project over the line or provide guidance on specific aspects. Don’t hesitate to reach out — it’s not a sign of weakness but a way to strengthen your work.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Eva Kleinert appeared first on Blog.

Paige Humecki is a passionate professional in the energy sector who has been with ArchTam since 2018. From her beginnings in Chicago to her current role in London, Paige’s career journey is a testament to innovation, collaboration and a commitment to tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Today, Paige leads our Energy Advisory team in the UK, supporting a range of energy system feasibility and decarbonization programs for public and private clients.  

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I first became interested in the energy sector during my studies in environmental engineering, but it was my first job at a small energy consulting firm that truly ignited my passion. In my opinion, energy is the greatest challenge of the 21st century. How do we meet increasing energy needs while decarbonizing and achieving critical climate goals? This is the question that drives me every day.

I think what has kept me in the industry is that there is always something new. There’s always a new technology, or a new approach. I feel like every six months, there is something technically different about my job that I can learn about. I also like that often when we’re working on projects, we’re focusing on the feasibility of the project because it’s the first of its kind. No one has quite figured out how to broadly decarbonize multiple industrial sectors — or how to decarbonize an entire town. That means we’re often piecing together the puzzle in real time. What technical limitations do we need to navigate? Which emerging technologies are mature enough to apply?

The people in this industry have been a significant source of inspiration for me, both at ArchTam and within the energy sector. I think many people are driven by similar factors to those that inspire me — ultimately, these are decarbonization and achieving vital global goals. We face the immense challenge of addressing these issues on a global scale. Overall, the innovative approaches we take and the incredible people we work with along the way make this journey truly rewarding.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

Since joining ArchTam in 2018, I’ve had the privilege of working on a wide range of projects, from electric vehicle charging infrastructure to community-based energy initiatives. Moving to London has given me a global perspective on the energy industry, and it’s been fascinating to see how energy challenges are approached differently in different countries.

One of the things I love about working at ArchTam is the incredible technical expertise of my colleagues and their willingness to share knowledge. It’s a collaborative environment in which I’m constantly learning and growing — which is something I truly value.

I also love the scale and diversity of the work we do. It takes time to fully grasp everything ArchTam is involved in, but that’s part of the excitement. I’m always discovering new opportunities and areas of expertise within the company, which keeps my work dynamic and fulfilling.

It’s difficult to choose just one favorite project, but two stand out as particularly meaningful to me because of their scale, complexity and the impact they had on both my professional growth and the communities we served.

The first was a project on which I had the privilege of leading a team to help a major industrial client in Europe achieve its ambitious climate-neutral goals. This was a large-scale initiative that required us to travel across multiple European countries to assess a variety of industrial sites. Each site had its own unique challenges, from outdated infrastructure to varying levels of regulatory compliance, and we had to develop tailored decarbonization strategies for each one. The project was intense, with a fast-paced timeline and high stakes, but it was also incredibly rewarding. It pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated, from managing a diverse team to navigating the complexities of working across different countries and cultures. What made the experience even more fulfilling was the client’s genuine passion and commitment to sustainability. They were fully invested in the process, which created a collaborative and inspiring environment for everyone involved. It was a powerful reminder of how impactful partnerships can be when everyone is aligned toward a common goal.

The second project that stands out is the bus electrification study we conducted for the Fresno County Rural Transit Agency in California. This project was particularly meaningful because it combined technical innovation with a strong focus on community impact. The task was to design solutions for electrifying a bus fleet in a rural area with limited electrical infrastructure. This wasn’t just about implementing cutting-edge technology; it was about addressing the unique needs of small, often underserved communities. We had to think creatively about how to overcome the challenges of limited grid capacity while ensuring that the solutions we proposed were both practical and sustainable. Our analysis went beyond just the buses themselves — we explored how investments in electrification could bring broader benefits to the community, such as improving access to the electrical grid and reducing energy costs for residents. The project also required extensive community engagement, which was particularly challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic. We had to adapt to virtual outreach methods to ensure that the voices of local residents were heard and that their needs were incorporated into our plans. Despite these challenges, the project remains a highlight of my career because of its potential to make a real difference in people’s lives. It was incredibly rewarding to know that our work could help create a more sustainable and equitable future for these communities.

Both of these projects represent what I love most about working at ArchTam: the opportunity to tackle complex, meaningful challenges that require innovative thinking and collaboration. They have not only allowed me to grow as a professional but have also reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact on the world through my work.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Much of my work at ArchTam revolves around feasibility studies. While I may often be working a few steps ahead of actual implementation, I take immense pride in knowing that these early studies lay the foundation for projects that can transform communities. Our projects are a rewarding reminder that the groundwork we lay today sparks the transformative projects of tomorrow.

Ultimately, decarbonization and grappling with the practical limits in any community sits at the core of my work. Personally, however, a way in which I feel I have positively impacted the community and one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career has been engaging directly with students and young professionals.

The energy industry is experiencing significant growth, and there is a shortage of skilled professionals. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to host placement students and interns. I have also spoken at events and visited schools, which has allowed me to connect with individuals who are early in their careers or who may not have had exposure to this sector. I enjoy discussing the energy industry with them and sharing insights about its opportunities.

However, I feel that it is critical to tie decarbonization to real opportunities for people — and opportunities to engage with early professionals or anyone who’s still deciding what to study at university is my favourite way of doing that. We need so many skilled professionals across the energy industry, from all backgrounds and with various skill sets, and it takes time to develop them. Each conversation, internship, and school visit contributes to preparing these future professionals to tackle the big challenges in the energy industry. Seeing them leave with renewed enthusiasm and a clearer vision for their roles in our field is incredibly fulfilling.

Share a piece of career advice

I always tell people: never stop asking questions. Curiosity is so important, especially in a field like energy, as it’s constantly evolving. It’s critical to stay open to learning — whether it’s gaining technical knowledge or understanding the decisions being made around you. After all, if we had all the answers, we would already have decarbonized the world!

As a woman in this industry, I’ve felt the pressure to always have the answers, but I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask questions and seek clarity. I feel that this is the only way to grow and contribute meaningfully. I encourage everyone entering this field to embrace curiosity and not shy away from asking for help or deeper understanding.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Paige Humecki appeared first on Blog.

Ameet leads our residential sector across the UK&I, collaborating with teams in project management, cost management, engineering and sustainability to deliver a wide range of residential projects that truly make a difference. Working with our clients across a range of residential asset classes, including housing, strategic land, later living, student accommodation, open market, build to rent, co-living, affordable, social, urban regeneration and city centre high-rise towers, his focus is on creating places that are practical, sustainable and built to last.

With over 15 years of experience in the construction industry, Ameet has led major residential and regeneration projects from concept to completion. His leadership approach combines commercial understanding with a strong commitment to quality, teamwork and doing things the right way, values he sees as essential to shaping the future of housing delivery.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I grew up in a thriving region where development and opportunity were part of everyday life.  From an early age, I was fascinated by how cities grow and evolve. That curiosity was fuelled further through international travel — visiting New York, San Francisco and Hong Kong — and gave me firsthand insight into how ambitious construction and planning can transform communities. Those experiences inspired my ambition to be part of shaping the built environment.

Academically, I had strengths in both numbers and literature. This naturally led me toward quantity surveying, contracts and procurement, disciplines that blend structure, logic and communication. Over time, that evolved into a passion for project management and delivering complex, multidisciplinary projects that bring teams together to achieve shared goals.

I’ve always felt a strong connection to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the professionalism it represents. I take pride in upholding traditional values of accuracy, integrity and accountability. For me, success is as much about how we deliver projects as what we deliver.

What are the biggest issues currently facing the residential sector?

The residential sector continues to face a series of evolving pressures that affect both project viability and delivery.

Viability remains a key consideration, shaped by the cost of finance and rising labour, material and plant costs. Together, these influence scheme viability and investment confidence, particularly in higher-cost markets.

Planning processes also continue to extend project timelines, requiring early coordination and realistic programming to maintain momentum. In addition, the implementation of the Building Safety Act has introduced new stages and requirements that form an important part of ensuring safe design and construction. While essential for compliance, these processes, including updated design measures such as second staircases and Gateway 2 reviews, can add time to project programmes and require proactive management across all parties.

Another key factor is the skills shortage across the UK construction industry, which continues to impact delivery capacity. This has encouraged the sector to think more innovatively about how we design and build, exploring new methods to increase efficiency, consistency and quality. I have been involved in several projects adopting modern methods of construction, which not only help to address resource challenges but also drive improved sustainability outcomes and predictability in delivery. By constantly challenging design and embracing innovation, we can unlock real value for clients and create more resilient project models for the future.

Finally, sustainability continues to drive change. Clients and developers are setting ambitious goals around carbon reduction, circular economy principles and social value. Balancing these aspirations with cost and delivery pressures requires innovation, collaboration and strong technical leadership across every stage of development.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work on a range of projects that have brought lasting benefit to local communities, from housing and regeneration to specialist living and even the London 2012 Olympics, which has left a distinct legacy.

A particular area I’m passionate about is later living, having delivered several large retirement village developments designed to connect senior residents to their local communities through place, amenities and shared outdoor spaces. These projects provide environments where people can live independently while remaining active, engaged and connected to others, something that has a real social impact beyond the buildings themselves.

I’ve also been involved in several student accommodation campus and apartment build to rent projects, which have helped define a new generation of living. By integrating amenities such as music studios, cafés, shared lounges and landscaped public realm, these developments have created communities and enhanced the student and professional experience.

Most recently, I’ve worked on the Smithfield Birmingham masterplan with Lendlease, a landmark regeneration project at the heart of the city. Achieving planning consent for this major scheme was a significant milestone, paving the way to transform underused land into a vibrant, mixed-use neighbourhood. With construction now progressing into the build-out phases, it’s exciting to see that vision becoming a reality.

Across all these projects, the unifying theme is collaboration, working with clients, local authorities and residents to deliver places that have a positive and enduring impact on people’s lives.

Share a piece of career advice.

My advice to anyone in this industry is to stay engaged, open-minded and reflective. Every project, conversation or client interaction offers a chance to learn something new. Even the small moments can teach you how to communicate, adapt or solve problems more effectively.

Seek out hands-on experience early in your career. Spending time on site builds a real understanding of how projects are delivered and gives you confidence in your decision making.

Take every opportunity to gain early exposure and learn from senior professionals. Sit alongside partners and directors, observe how they think, lead and build relationships. Those lessons in judgement and communication are invaluable.

Take pride in your work, whatever the task may be. The quality of your outputs, from reports to presentations, reflects your professionalism. Always take a client-first approach, pausing to understand the world from their perspective.

Equally important is developing strong people skills. You’ll work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and cultures, both locally and internationally. Being able to connect, communicate and collaborate effectively is at the heart of successful project delivery.

And above all, enjoy what you do. When you’re genuinely passionate about your work, that enthusiasm shines through in the outcomes you deliver and the teams you lead. Passion is what sustains a career in construction and what makes it so rewarding.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Ameet Singh Heir appeared first on Blog.

Environmental Business Journal Awards

Strategic undergrounding program
Won by: San Diego Gas & Electric
Award: EBJ Industry Leadership – Strategic Undergrounding Program

The team delivered industry-leading results on a Southern California utility’s Strategic Undergrounding Program, addressing escalating wildfire risks driven by drought, extreme heat and high winds. By placing the environmental team at the center of delivery alongside engineering and construction, ArchTam cut cost per mile, accelerated permitting and significantly increased the pace of undergrounding. The program managed 18 service categories, maintained strong safety and quality, and enabled 112 miles of powerline undergrounding — a 53 percent annual increase and 23 percent cost per mile reduction. Sustainability and equity were embedded throughout, achieving 38 percent Diverse Business Enterprise participation, minimizing environmental impacts, engaging nine Tribes through 37 meetings, and securing more than 500 permits and easements. This integrated model sets a new benchmark for wildfire mitigation and resilient infrastructure.

Realigning the Lower San Acacia Reach: A model for sustainable river management in the Rio Grande watershed
Won by: ArchTam
Award: EBJ Project Merit – Sustainability Model for Rio Grande Watershed

The Rio Grande watershed is critical for water users, ecosystems, and recreation, but its highly dynamic channel has shifted significantly over the past century. To address challenges in the Lower San Acacia Reach — such as channel perching, conveyance losses, and declining habitat — the Bureau of Reclamation is planning a 20‑mile river realignment south of Socorro, NM that works with natural geomorphic trends to improve water delivery, enhance ecosystem health, and reduce long‑term maintenance. ArchTam is supporting a four‑year environmental program with robust stakeholder engagement and regulatory compliance, producing key analyses including a 2024 geomorphology and alternatives report and a 2025 Draft Environmental Impact Statement. This forward‑looking effort integrates engineering, science, and collaboration to strengthen river resilience.

Closing the loop on PFAS: Advanced technology for ARFF vehicle decontamination
Won by: ArchTam, TRS Group, Inc., Denver International Airport
Award: EBJ Technology Merit Awards – PFAS Decontamination

Airports face growing PFAS contamination challenges from decades of AFFF use, intensified by the EPA’s 2024 designation of PFOA and PFOS as CERCLA hazardous substances. Denver International Airport, with ArchTam and TRS Group, implemented a groundbreaking closed-loop cleaning system to decontaminate ARFF vehicles, circulating heated water and cleaning agents through foam systems on each vehicle. After three to five cycles, PFAS levels dropped an average of 98.72 percent, enabling safe conversion to fluorine-free foam without replacing vehicles and saving millions in equipment costs. A total of 20 firefighting vehicles were cleaned, supported by SOP development, rigorous sampling, and validation of analytical results. This innovative, repeatable approach sets a national precedent for cost-effective PFAS remediation and regulatory compliance.

Leading the charge in post-wildfire environmental recovery
Won by: ArchTam and ECC for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Award: EBJ Industry Leadership – Post-Wildfire Rapid Environmental Recovery

After the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers led a six-month recovery effort that cleared more than 12,000 parcels, enabling communities to rebuild while safely managing hazards such as asbestos, lead and lithium batteries without harming wildlife or cultural resources. The team’s custom mobile and GIS-enabled apps streamlined more than 27,000 biological and archaeological monitoring forms, reducing errors and accelerating clearance through real-time digital reporting. Working long hours, crews recovered artifacts and documented historic structures, preserving cultural heritage, while the program also provided hands-on training for recent graduates through mentorship with senior experts. This effort set a national standard for innovative, coordinated and resilience-focused disaster recovery.

Klamath Dam removal project
Won by: RES
Award: EBJ Project Merit – Large-Scale River Restoration

When four hydroelectric dams on the Klamath River were deemed environmentally and economically unsustainable, a diverse coalition — led by Tribes — advanced the landmark 2016 Klamath Hydroelectric Settlement Agreement, creating the Klamath River Renewal Corporation to deliver the largest dam removal project in history. The final dam came down in October 2024, and by fall 2025 over 10,000 Chinook salmon had returned to the upper basin. The project restored habitat, reconnected floodplains, improved tribal subsistence resources, created public access to world‑class whitewater, and will return 2,000 acres to the Shasta Indian Nation. ArchTam facilitated federal cultural resource compliance, protected cultural sites, and supported listing part of Kikacéki on the National Register.

Climate Change Business Journal awards

Innovating energy and carbon management for the world’s largest chemical company
Won by: ArchTam and BASF
Award: CCBJ Consulting & Engineering – Sustainability Target Architecture Solution Implementation

ArchTam partnered with BASF to deliver a global energy and carbon management solution that provides transparent, asset‑management GHG estimation to support Product Carbon Footprints. Using BASF’s STArS architecture for data collection on Enablon, ArchTam created a scalable, assurance-ready approach to automize data collection for CO2 emissions that can be rapidly deployed plant by plant. Three proof-of‑concept sites validated the method, enabling expansion across 550 plants worldwide, including Ludwigshafen, Germany. The solution automates significant parts of the data collection for GHG reporting, supports sustainable product design, reduces energy use and lowers operating costs. By combining advanced technology with strategic consulting, ArchTam helped BASF to significantly increase efficiency in the processes and transform complex environmental data into actionable insights.

Building Brazil’s carbon future: A transformative national carbon certification program
Won by: ArchTam, BNDES, Bradesco Bank and Ecogreen Fund
Award: CCBJ Consulting & Engineering – Carbon Certification Program for Brazil

ECORA is a national carbon credit certification program positioned to become a reference for Brazil and the Global South, strengthening trust and transparency while enabling market-wide growth. Structured through ArchTam’s advisory program and formally launched in partnership with BNDES, Bradesco and the Ecogreen Fund at COP30, it enhances security and scalability in a sector that must grow 400 percent by 2030. Integrated with the Conservare Digital Platform, ECORA digitizes the full credit generation lifecycle — from feasibility to retirement — using geospatial analytics, predictive modeling and automated traceability. The solution reduces transaction costs, accelerates certification, and aligns methodologies and safeguards with Brazil’s diverse biomes, regulatory frameworks and socioenvironmental realities. By delivering high-integrity, locally tailored certification and expanding market access, ECORA attracts global investment and supports Brazil’s low carbon transition, demonstrating ArchTam’s leadership in scaling climate solutions.

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Anastasia Squirrel holds a diploma in civil engineering technologies from Saskatchewan Polytechnic and works as a civil CADD specialist with strong proficiency in Civil 3D and supporting design software. Anastasia’s experience includes civil site design for industrial developments, parking facilities, service yards and community buildings, as well as infrastructure projects involving water treatment plants, pumping stations, roadway design and other civil and water discipline‑related projects. This work has strengthened her skills in grading, utility coordination, and the production of functional, compliant site layouts.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

Growing up on Yellow Quill First Nation, we lived under a boil water advisory for nine years. When a water treatment plant was finally built near my home, I became fascinated by its design and construction. With my father being a journeyman carpenter, I was exposed to drawings and plans early on, which sparked endless questions — every answer seemed to lead back to engineering. Determined to pursue this path, I overcame limited resources on the reserve by attending school off reserve with the support of family and friends, taking the courses needed to pursue a career in engineering. That experience inspired my commitment to building and improving infrastructure every day, as it deeply impacted my community and showed me how essential these solutions are.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

At ArchTam, I’ve contributed to many projects across Canada, all of which I’m proud of. Overall, my favorite project is always the one I’m working on now — it keeps me motivated to learn, grow and deliver my best. Each new challenge builds on the last, whether I’m refining grading plans, coordinating utilities, or ensuring that site layouts meet both functional and regulatory requirements.

My most recent favorite project has been the Edmonton – Forest Heights Dry Pond and Storm Improvement initiative, where our team was tasked with enhancing stormwater management for the community. The work involved retrofitting new storm infrastructure into an already dense network of existing utilities, requiring careful coordination to ensure an efficient and constructible design. We also developed a new dry pond, balancing technical requirements with the goal of preserving as many mature trees as possible. The project incorporated several bioswale-low impact development features, which were new to me and provided a valuable learning experience. Overall, it was a rewarding project that expanded my technical skills and deepened my understanding of stormwater design.

Every project deserves to be completed to the highest standard, and that mindset drives my passion for excellence. The diversity of work I’ve been part of continually pushes me to expand my technical skills and contribute meaningful solutions that support clients and communities across the country.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Every project I have my hands on represents a solution to a real need. Whether it’s designing municipal water and sewer systems to keep streets clean, planning landfills and lagoons to protect the environment, or creating site layouts for commercial developments that bring services closer to people, my work turns challenges into opportunities.

One recent project that stands out is the City of Saskatoon landfill expansion, where we added a new landfill cell and helped the City plan for the long‑term future of the site — supporting a project that directly impacts waste management for the people of Saskatoon.

These projects don’t just solve problems — they help communities prosper. Reliable infrastructure means stronger neighborhoods, healthier families and opportunities to grow. Each design choice, no matter how small, contributes to the quality of life for the people who rely on these systems every day.

Share a piece of career advice.

Success starts with teamwork. Always take time to understand the information, don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are people here to help, and we can help each other. When we share knowledge and collaborate toward a common goal, everyone succeeds.

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Jasmin Mejia is Environmental Market Leader for Surface Transportation in the San Francisco Bay Area.

She brings a distinctive blend of environmental knowledge, regulatory insight and strategic leadership to deliver transformative projects. Her background in water quality compliance and environmental consulting has earned a strong reputation for guiding complex, multi-agency efforts that enhance resilience and advance multimodal connectivity. Her commitment to community well-being shines through in every project, driving solutions that enhance mobility, improve accessibility, and create lasting benefits for people and neighborhoods.

Tell us a bit about yourself – your role and career journey.

Spending summers in the Dominican Republic, some of my most cherished memories are hiking through lush trails with my grandfather. Those experiences taught me to value the beauty of natural spaces and the sense of connection they create. In high school, an environmental science class opened my eyes to something even bigger: how deeply our lives are interconnected and how infrastructure shapes communities. That realization became the foundation for my education and career.

I knew I wanted to work at the intersection of policy, regulation and environmental science. I earned a Bachelor of Science in environmental management and protection, and a minor in city and regional planning from the California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo. My career began at the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, where I reviewed CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) and NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) documents from a water quality perspective and processed water quality certifications. From there, I transitioned into environmental consulting, gaining a deep understanding of multidisciplinary collaboration and its role in shaping resilient, sustainable communities.

I now have the privilege of leading the environmental team and partnering closely with transportation partners to deliver projects that meet client needs and serve communities. As environmental market leader for surface transportation, that spirit of teamwork allows us to connect environmental planning with transportation solutions, helping clients achieve their goals and creating infrastructure that helps local and regional communities move and thrive.

Talk to us about a project that has been a major highlight of your career.

One of the most impactful projects I have managed was the State Route 37 Flood Reduction Project, an environmental adaptation for a vital Bay Area corridor in Marin County that connects several counties in the area. The goal was to adapt the roadway to projected sea-level rise and to improve resilience against flooding and extreme weather. This corridor is critical for commuters and for access to the wine region, contributing over US$1 billion to the local economy. Yet repeated closures from flooding have become more frequent and severe.

The project raised the roadway and added a new bridge to maintain connectivity during winter storms and flooding. What makes this project meaningful to me is its dual benefit: while improving transportation reliability, the design also enhances hydrologic connectivity, supporting wetland restoration and biological resources. It’s a clear example of how infrastructure can protect communities and the environment simultaneously.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

One of the most rewarding parts of my work is seeing how transportation projects improve lives.  By redesigning interchanges and improving access, we’ve transformed corridors into safer, more connected streets where walking, biking and driving are inviting for everyone. These improvements strengthen communities by ensuring continued access to jobs, healthcare and education while reducing environmental impacts through thoughtful design.

Community engagement is central to this process. We use digital stakeholder engagement tools like PlanEngage to make participation easier and make it more inclusive. It allows residents to review documents and share feedback online, reducing paper use and carbon footprint while offering translation features for diverse communities. These practices ensure transparency and give people a voice in shaping projects that affect their daily lives.

Share a piece of career advice.

Investing in your professional community is one of the best ways to grow your career. Surround yourself with inspiring people and stay engaged with industry groups like the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) — not just to find mentors, but to become one. Each stage of your career offers chances to learn from different perspectives, and those diverse views make us stronger, more adaptable and more innovative. Say “yes” to new experiences; each one broadens your skills and shapes your future path.

Above all, lead with kindness. That principle has guided my journey, including a decade on the WTS SF Bay Area board and a recent two-year term as chapter president. Ultimately, this work is about building meaningful connections and contributing to a community that supports and uplifts the next generation of leaders.

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Dillon Lennebacker brings a powerful blend of environmental planning expertise, regulatory insight, and project leadership to his role as Environmental Project Manager and Planner specializing in National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) impact analysis and regulatory permitting for projects across the San Francisco Bay Area.

Dillon’s work spans transportation and wetland restoration projects, including serving as environmental lead on the multi-benefit State Route 37 Sears Point to Mare Island Improvement Project that includes Strip Marsh East Enhancement, and supporting the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) through environmental on-call contracts as Contract Manager and Technical Lead. From the largest tidal wetland restoration on the West Coast, the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration, to the Bay Bridge replacement, Dillon’s focus is on delivering projects that strengthen the connection between communities and the environment they call home, now and for generations to come.

Tell us a bit about yourself — your role and career journey.

My journey began with a love for Bay Area landscapes, an interest in environmental law, contributing to improving our perspective to better incorporate resource protection into infrastructure projects that was sparked by a book, Cadillac Desert by Marc Reisner, and studying environmental planning with a focus on conservation and restoration at Sonoma State University. The exposure this gave me to coastal prairie, shoreline, grassland, and coastal forest habitats sparked my passion for balancing development with environmental stewardship.

My first major project with ArchTam — the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge replacement — gave me invaluable experience in regulatory permitting and collaboration with stakeholders and environmental agencies. This work showed me that I excel at addressing challenges that lie at the intersection of infrastructure and ecology. Since then, I have led CEQA and NEPA analyses and managed transportation and utility projects across the Bay, overseeing permitting for restoration projects like the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration and the Bradmoor and Arnold Restoration Projects in Suisun Marsh, and worked closely with agencies to deliver projects that protect the Bay while supporting community needs.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

One of my proudest contributions was helping transform the remnants of the old east span of the Bay Bridge into a public asset. Our team partnered with landscape architects to design public access features that invite people onto the remaining piers, creating spaces where visitors can walk out over the water and experience the Bay up close. We added interpretive signage to share the bridge’s history and its role in connecting communities. For many residents, especially in Oakland and East Bay Area, where industrial development limits shoreline access, these spaces offer a rare and meaningful connection to the Bay.  This design is dedicated entirely to the public, linking past and present while opening new opportunities to enjoy the incredible resource that is the San Francisco Bay.

Talk to us about a project that has been a major highlight of your career.

One of the most exciting projects is one I’m working on now — the State Route 37 Sears Point to Mare Island Improvement Project (SR 37 SPMIIP). This effort strikes a rare balance between transportation improvements and wetland restoration — two priorities that often compete for space and resources and two specialties that I have focused my career on, so it is a unique opportunity to apply the full breadth of my knowledge to support our client.

The State Route 37 corridor faces significant congestion and flooding challenges, and our solution integrates the congestion relief required by roadway users while enhancing sensitive habitats. It’s an opportunity to apply lessons I’ve learned from extensive experience in transportation projects and tidal marsh restoration projects across the San Francisco Bay Area and Suisun Marsh, bringing together transportation access and ecological restoration in one design.

How does the unique culture and character of the Bay Area influence your approach?

Living and working in the Bay Area has shaped my approach to every project. This region’s culture values innovation, environmental stewardship and community access, and that perspective drives how I plan and deliver projects. For me, the Bay has always felt like home. After moving to Santa Cruz in high school and later settling with my family in the East Bay, I developed a deep appreciation for its unique character and the responsibility we share to protect its beautiful landscapes while supporting thriving communities.

The Bay Area’s identity is deeply tied to its environment, so every project invites consideration of those valued resources, and challenges project proponents to ask: How can we do this better than before? That means embracing green infrastructure, avoiding and minimizing impacts first, and integrating habitat restoration wherever possible and appropriate. Transportation and utilities are essential for a thriving population, but so is a healthy Bay. My role is to help clients step back and see the big picture, finding solutions that meet project needs while contributing to the region’s ecological resilience.

Share a piece of career advice.

For those starting out, say yes to opportunities, even the ones outside your comfort zone. The path you think you want may not be where you end up, and that’s okay. Every experience builds your skillset and perspective and will lead you to where you truly want to be. Stay curious, stay adaptable and keep looking for ways to make a positive impact.

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