As part of a series of stories profiling people of influence from around Beca, we asked Chief Structural Engineer Rob Jury ONZM to tell us about his career journey, and life outside of work.
What led you to this career?
My father was quite a handyman and I seem to have taken after him. I like to understand how things work, I like to build things. So perhaps that led into structural engineering.
From my earliest memories, I either wanted to be a Naval architect, an architect, or an engineer. It started from a very early time. But Naval architecture was waning at the time – I would have had to go to the UK to do that, and so I went to Canterbury University to study structural engineering.
I grew up in Upper Hutt – I’m a Wellingtonian through and through. I’ve moved away on odd occasions but primarily Wellington is where I’ve lived, which suited earthquake engineering.
How did you get involved in earthquake engineering?
I was very lucky that we had good lecturers at University: Professors Paulay, Park and Priestley are the three important Ps in structural and earthquake engineering. They put me on that path. I did a Masters in earthquake engineering, and then I was recruited into Beca in ’78 where I was extremely fortunate to work with John Hollings. I’ve been here ever since!
I think of myself as a structural engineer who does earthquake engineering.
What do you say to people who are thinking about their career choices, who might be thinking about this kind of work?
I say to people, structural engineering is a very honest career. People have to live or work in what you build. It’s pretty honest - if you don’t do it right, it’s a real problem! If you’re technically-minded, if you like science and maths, then structural engineering is a good career, in my mind. And you get to see what you build, which is highly motivating.
What makes your work rewarding?
There have been some wonderful opportunities.
Beca supported me to join the Mexican Earthquake reconnaissance team back in 1985. Going to the scene of a major earthquake where there had been major loss of life, that really influenced me I think – the realisation that what I was doing could have severe consequences.
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to go to wonderful places like Nepal and Romania – I may not have had those experiences if I hadn’t been in this field. There’s something about standing on the border of Nepal and China as part of your job!
And standing on top of very tall structures; touching the light on the top of the Sky Tower – those sorts of things have provided a real buzz along the way. I’ve been really fortunate that I’ve had the opportunity to work on some really neat projects and with wonderful people.
Beca has also supported me to get involved with Code development. I’ve been involved with New Zealand’s Building Code development, and assessment processes for existing buildings, for over 30 years now, which I find extremely stimulating work. I think it’s also beneficial to Beca because it means we remain at the forefront in the field.
In very recent times, the work we’re doing with viscous dampers - which is a highly sophisticated way of controlling structures, to my mind - that’s been extremely interesting and stimulating. There’s still plenty to keep one interested!
You’ve been involved in things that are good not just for Beca - but for New Zealand too.
I would hope that’s the case – I hope people think that. It might be reflected in the recent award, [Rob was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours] which I’m very chuffed about I have to say. I’ve supported nominations for others, so I know how much effort goes into those submissions.
What do you like to do in your spare time? What do you do to unwind?
We have a place in Taupō which I really enjoy. Once I get there, I really relax, which is good. We don’t get there often enough.
I’ve always enjoyed building things – actually my wife says I need to stop! I built the house we currently own, in the sense that I planned it, then finished it off and extended it on several occasions. We’ve just bought another house so I’m doing it again!
My weekends are full of my own DIY jobs, and DIY jobs for my family. I think it’s pretty common for engineers – it’s ingrained somehow. Why get someone to do it if you can do it yourself?
How would your family and friends describe you?
I would like to think that people think of me as a solid individual who they could rely on.
I’m not someone who likes to make a show of things. Early in my life, I was very retiring. I don’t think I’m very demonstrative and I don’t think people who know me would say I’m an extrovert. It took me a long time to get the confidence to portray a view. I do thank my previous managers for recognising that and sending me on the right courses to develop that sort of thing!
Tell us a bit about your family life.
Clare and I have been together for 47 years. We have three children who all live locally. They are all married and we have our fifth grandchild on the way. So life is good.
Do the grandkids know what you do for work?
They’re only young – one is just starting school. But they do love Grandad helping them build towers out of blocks!