Meet Otago/Southland Regional Chair Geoff Wigley

Geoff Wigley is a Structural Engineer for Stantec in Dunedin and the new ACE New Zealand Regional Chair for the Otago/Southland region. He talks to us about the engineering industry’s responsibility to help address inequalities in society and the challenges of climate change.

Tell us about yourself?  

I have an interest in helping create a more sustainable society, particularly how the built world will change in response to climate change. The Canterbury earthquakes gave me an experience of how structural engineering plays an essential role in community leadership and safety. Transition engineering and carbon accounting are also of interest. I have advised several water and transport projects regarding their carbon implications while at Stantec.  

I am involved in several community groups and organisations outside of engineering that promote transport mode shift, energy transition, and social justice. I believe that the engineering industry needs to be honest with itself in determining its role in these transitions. I also believe there are many opportunities available when we adapt and work with other groups in our communities. 

What strengths do you bring to the Regional Chair role? 

I am a Structural Engineer with Stantec, based in my hometown of Dunedin. I have six years of professional experience working as a structural engineer in Queenstown, Christchurch and Vietnam.  

I gained a Bachelor of Civil Engineering (Hons) in Structural Engineering from the University of Canterbury in 2014 and I’ve recently been confirmed as a Chartered Professional Engineer and Chartered Member of Engineering New Zealand.  

I am engaged with the industry and the wider community and look forward to collaborating with others on a shared vision for change. 

How would you support ACE New Zealand's mahi in your region? 

I believe strongly that the engineering industry has a responsibility to help address the inequalities in our society, and challenges of climate change.  

The Diversity Agenda needs to address gender roles and masculinity in our society, not just in the workplace. Te Tiriti o Waitangi needs to be acknowledged properly in the work we participate in. Climate change needs major changes in business-as-usual operation of our industry.  

As engineers we have a pivotal role in building the society around us and we need to change and work in collaboration with others to adapt to current challenges. I will aim to promote these ideas and discussions in my work with ACE. 

What’s the best way for members to get in touch with you?  

All my details are on the ACE New Zealand people page.