Helen Davies

Helen Davies of Pwllheli, Gwynedd is the first member of the Land Drainage Association to achieve Chartered Environmentalist status through the Institution of Agricultural Engineers.

Helen works for GT Williams Civil Engineering, the pipe laying and drainage specialists and is responsible for business development and environmental management across the company.

She has 11 years’ experience of Programme and Project Management in local government and an extensive background in agriculture and rural development in both the private and public sector, including 12 years beef and sheep farming in Mid Wales.  She also worked as a freelance writer for national press and farming magazines specialising in agriculture, environment and countryside issues.

“I wanted to achieve professional registration as a Chartered Environmentalist because I felt the recognition gained would help me make a more positive impact across the wider industry.  Membership of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers has given me access to information on new industry technology and innovation and also invaluable help and support to achieve this status,” said Helen

Alastair Taylor CEO of IAgrE said, “IAgrE are champions of creating a sustainable environment.  We recognise that sustainable development is central to the agricultural and associated landbased engineering sector.  Our members play a significant role in sustainability, providing options and solutions to minimise environmental impact.  In fulfilling these roles members can play a major role in solving global problems such as climate change, food and water supply, energy security and economic stability.”

What do you see as your main career achievements?

Achieving a MSc. Whilst working full time and bringing up 2 children. Designing and implementing an inert and excavation waste transfer station on a derelict farm yard for GT Williams.

What made you choose this career path?

My Initial interest came from working in the agricultural pharmaceutical industry in the 1980’s advising farmers on safe sheep dipping practice to both protect their health and the environment from disposal of the spent chemicals. From this point, I realised no matter what industry I worked in there would be environmental impacts to reduce and opportunities to improve sustainable development

What do you most enjoy about your job?

The variety! – due to the nature and range of civil engineering works GT Williams is involved in, no two days are ever the same and there are always new and exciting challenges to face which means I am constantly learning and the work is always interesting!

What is the greatest challenge you face in your job?

GT Williams as a company is wholly committed to sound environmental management and ensuring sustainable development. However, getting individuals to understand their responsibility and commitment to these aims and make them part of their ‘day job’ is a considerable challenge

What attracted you to gain professional registration as a chartered environmentalist?

I felt the recognition gained through having professional registration would help me make a more positive impact (and ensure I would be taken more seriously) across the wider industry.

What advice would you give someone considering professional registration as a Chartered Environmentalist?

If you feel you have the breadth and depth of skills and experience to match the application criteria and then don’t hesitate to make the submission

How has IAgrE helped you in your career?

Not only has IAgrE membership given me access to information on new industry technology and innovation, it has also given me invaluable help and support to achieve professional registration as a Chartered Environmentalist

What advice would you give to students considering a career in agricultural engineering?

 I have always believed that to have an enjoyable and successful career you should choose one that either involves a hobby or topic you have a deep interest in.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

Hopefully still at the forefront of GT Williams development as I believe there are some exciting times ahead for the industry in the next few years.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Last year my husband and I converted a derelict barn into a holiday cottage which I now run and which has recently been given an environmental award.

I spend the rest of my spare time sea fishing around the coast of the Llyn Peninsula where I live, gardening and hill walking.