This week, our Director at JRC Consulting Engineers Ltd returned to Kingston University London, his alma mater, to deliver a guest lecture to final-year Civil Engineering students. The session offered practical insights into site due diligence and its real-world applications beyond textbook theory.
The lecture covered key aspects of civil engineering due diligence, including levels, drainage, earthworks, constraints, and utilities. Geotechnical due diligence was also discussed, emphasising how ground risk directly influences cost and project viability. Structural considerations, such as early foundation options, retaining walls, and overall buildability, were examined, with a strong focus on how early technical decisions impact health and safety, project programme, and overall risk management.
A central theme of the session was designing with the client’s budget in mind. The lecture highlighted the importance of value-engineered solutions that are safe by design, rather than over-engineered, ensuring projects are both practical and cost-effective. The main takeaway for students was clear: good due diligence isn’t about being conservative—it’s about being informed. By getting it right early, engineers can reduce risk, protect safety, and save clients significant time and money later on.
The lecture was met with enthusiasm, with students engaging in thoughtful discussions about the commercial and safety aspects of civil engineering projects. Special thanks were extended to Dr. Nader Saleh-Matter and Maïa Ibsen for facilitating the session.
Reflecting on the visit, Georges said, “It’s great to be able to give something back to the place that started my journey in civil engineering.”
For clients navigating site risk, ground conditions, or early design decisions, JRC Consulting Engineers Ltd is available to provide guidance, from initial advice through to detailed due diligence studies.