Building Foundations: Yaré Pérez

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Experienced in both civil and structural engineering and working across multidisciplinary projects, Yaré is a key team member at Webb Yates Engineers. Read about his ambitions to develop his knowledge and expertise and work towards a greener and more sustainable urban future.

How Long have you been at Webb Yates Engineers? 

Three and a half years - roughly two and a half as a structural technician and one as a civil engineer.

Where are you from?

I’m from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain.  I lived there until I finished university and then decided to move to the UK.

Why did you choose a career in Engineering?

I was amazed by the buildings, bridges and roads that we use every single day. I had an urge to find out how they were built and the reasons behind their structure and form.

As a civil engineer are you working on any multidisciplinary projects in the office?

Absolutely! Coordination with the structural team is one of my day-to-day tasks and I think my experience as structural technician helps me to have a wider skillset when it comes to coordinating both disciplines.

Also, with the building services engineering team recently joining the office I think the opportunity to coordinate the drainage and services strategy with the structural, civil and architectural design will have a huge impact on the final solution. 

Where did you study? How does working in practice differ from your University experience?

I studied back home, in the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Back at university, I felt more independent. We had to do every calculation and technical detail on our own. In the real world, you need to adapt to the demands of contractors, clients and architects who will push you to meet their requirements but you still need to retain the integrity in your own design decisions.

What are your ambitions for the future?

I would like to gain as much technical knowledge as possible, specifically in sustainable drainage. At some point, I would like to move to a position more involved in project management where I have a chance to push for greener and more environmentally-friendly solutions.

What is your favourite Spanish cuisine?  

Despite Paella being one of the most popular Spanish dishes, I prefer Fideuá - a similar version with noodles instead of rice.

What do you love most about living in London? 

The opportunity to be deeply involved in both of my hobbies - sports and music - more than I ever thought. The opportunities are endless. There are lessons, gigs and jam sessions, every week as well as the chance to play football or any other sport every day of the week. 

As a civil engineer, what can you do to contribute to a greener and more sustainable urban future?

I think all professionals in this industry have a responsibility to not only reduce the environmental impact of new developments, but also to consider how to upgrade and refurbish existing infrastructure to fit changing needs. As civil engineers, it is our duty to offer clients clever and sustainable solutions within their required brief and budget and show them the benefits of including green spaces and water features.