Dr Melanie Robinson

How would you summarise your current role?

I manage a variety of projects – ranging from digital strategy development through to information management on live projects. I am also interested in research, particularly surrounding capability assessments and upskilling practices, as well as keeping up to date with developments in industry policy.

What do you believe are the current challenges in our industry and how can we overcome them?

I believe many of the current challenges lie in individual awareness of how and why industry is changing. Although a lot of amazing technology is emerging, it is superficial unless it can yield useful information and apply it in a value-adding capacity. Although it’s a particularly big challenge to overcome, I think it can be tackled by effective upskilling and challenging why we, our colleagues and our clients do what we do on a daily basis.

What added value do you bring to your projects?

I bring 8 years of experience in industry and academia to the role of Project Manager. Building strongly on my PhD research, my ethos stems from the aspiration to effectively bridge academic and industry practices to achieve the best results for clients and the wider built environment. Being able to critically reflect on practice and draw on the growing body of knowledge that surrounds modern construction practices can help us adapt and respond to what is now an ever-changing environment.

My experience also crosses many boundaries. I have developed and delivered BIM-related skills programmes and consultancy within Higher Education, completed industry placements within architectural and civil engineering practices, sat on national forums related to refining upskilling practices and policy, and conducted research in both academic and industry arenas. As a result, I maintain a strong network of contacts and believes constant dialogue is the key to effectively embrace digital technologies

What inspires you?

My family: I’m always amazed at how intelligent my grandmother is, and yet she had to turn down some amazing opportunities, like being a WWII codebreaker. Her stories have always inspired me to not only make the most out of any opportunity offered to me, but also to appreciate why it was offered in the first place.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

I can name all the countries and capitals in the world.