Alumni Inspiration Showcase - Matt Twiss

The iconic project will fundamentally transform modern transportation in the UK, particularly with Phase 1 (N1) and Phase 2 (N2) leading the way. The scale, techniques and its potential to reshape the UK's social and economic landscape. HS2 is set to be one of the most environmentally responsible major transport projects ever delivered in the UK, with a strong focus on reducing carbon emissions and enhancing biodiversity along the route.

• Embrace of new technology and sustainable practices to push the project forward.
• Integration of hydrogen fuel and solar panels on offices.
• Use of roller-compacted concrete (RCC) for high-strength, recyclable pavements.
• Implementation of plug sockets that automatically turn off to eliminate phantom energy drain (saving between 30 - 40% on energy costs.
• Implementation of RTK UAV technolog for survey, inspection and testing with an Esri Platform, along with laser scanning to ensure precision.
• Use of low-strength CBGM structural backfill to lock in tar-bound materials into cement-bound structures, reducing cost and managing the disposal of contaminated materials.

"My team is encouraged to instigate a culture of fun and high psychological safety and challenge allowing us to think creatively, leading to innovative ideas, all while pushing the boundaries of what's possible in construction and sustainability."

How did your studies at NTU enable you to input into this project?

NTU didn’t just provide me with qualifications; it gave me a foundation and new confidence to take on complex challenges in the construction industry. The education and experiences I gained there have been instrumental in my ability to contribute to key UK projects. From starting out at NTU to where I am now has been a huge roller coaster of projects, but most of all its been fun doing it and I wouldn't swap what I've seen and done for any other job.

What words would you share to inspire current and future students at NTU?

To current and future NTU students, my biggest piece of advice is to embrace the word 'yes'. Say yes to opportunities, even before you fully understand the problem. If someone asks me for help, my answer is yes, before they tell me what the problem is. This mindset has been a driving force in my career. Keep pushing forward, and if you want to change something, work hard to get yourself into a position where you can make that change happen. One of the most important skills you can develop is the ability to do the job of your staff. If you can't solve the problems your team faces, you're of no real use to them, you become just a messenger for project management tasks, so get your hands dirty, learn how things work in the real environment, and be there on the park with your team.
Always consider the customer and apply knowledge from all areas. Being a specialist has its place, but sometimes a broader perspective is what’s needed to deliver the best results. It’s easy to find reasons why something won’t work, the real trick is figuring out how to make it work, and how to do it in a way that saves time and money. In the end though it’s about saying yes, staying adaptable, and being willing to dive into the details even when people believe that is too much, that is where the devil is.

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I started working on sites at 17 as a chain lad, bucket boy, engineer's assistant...and I quickly realised that the practical hands on nature of work was better suited to me. I wanted to build a career in this field. I liked surveying and setting out. When I looked into universities, Nottingham stood out to me. I loved the feel of the city. It was friendly, lively, and had something about it. NTU had a strong reputation for construction and the built environment and the course itself really appealed to me. It offered the practical, site skills and knowledge that I knew would help me advance in the industry as well as the academic learning in a supportive and empathetic environment. The combination of the course content, the university's reputation, and the dynamic city life made NTU the perfect choice for me.

What have you done since leaving NTU?

I've built my career from the bottom up. Starting as an assistant engineer and working my way to Senior Project Manager with Tier 1 contractors like Tarmac, Carillion, Mowlem, Kier, Balfour Beatty, Skanska Balfour Beatty, and Balfour Beatty Vinci. My journey has taken me all over the UK, from building the AWPR in Scotland to the M25 in St Albans, the A63 in Hull, and various major projects on the M6, M6 Toll, Woodhead Pass, M18, M42, and M1. I've also been involved in trunk road projects in Yorkshire and Humberside, the A46 Newark to Widmerpool project in Nottinghamshire, and large construction projects like Doncaster United's stadium, sewage treatment plants in the Peak District, buildings in Wales and biomass facilities at West Burton Power Station. It’s been a career with never a dull moment, always learning and always having fun.