Sharan Gill

Structures Engineer, Surface Transport
Joined Civil Engineering Scheme, September 2005

My role

As a Structures Engineer I am part of the team responsible for making sure that structures such as Chiswick Bridge, Westminster Bridge, the Westway and various other types of structures which support TfL's highways are safe and fit for purpose. With almost 2,000 structures, some of which are over 200 years old, there is a lot to keep me busy!

My problem solving

TfL is responsible for managing transport services across the Capital. As well as London Buses, the Underground and others, it includes managing the TfL Road Network. This is a network of major roads through and around London - and one of TfL's roles is to keep it safe and able to meet the challenges of increasing congestion. I help make this happen. Our team inspects and maintains the structures that support our road network and pinpoint those that need further investigation or works. We look after a lot of interesting and iconic structures such as bridges over the River Thames, so it can be really exciting.

My future

I have every intention of staying at TfL - the team I work with is excellent and the ethos is extremely supportive. I am able to work flexible hours so I can take one day a week to study for a part time Master's in General Structural Engineering, which TfL is sponsoring. I want to look further into the technical advances with structural engineering and I believe this Masters will give me a greater understanding of the problems we face with our aging structures stock and help my career progression.