Aaron Hindmarsh, Senior Design Engineer

Aaron Hindmarsh finds problem solving to be a big part of his role as a Senior Design Engineer - and this skillset has transcended into his hobbies out of the office too! Here, he talks us through his interest in data centres and the importance of continuous progression at work.

How did you end up sitting where you are today?

Through my degree in Computing, I became interested in software and computer-aided design. I decided to pursue the design aspect further, and my first role was in the CAD design of astute attack class submarines in the defence sector. This work took me to the sub-sea oil and gas and renewable energy sectors. Now, I am a senior designer for an HVAC company.

What gets you excited about your industry?

I'm currently focusing on data centres, which is becoming a quickly-evolving and rapidly-growing aspect of the HVAC industry, driven by more people working remotely and the demand for worldwide data from social media. Data centres are, therefore, an area that excites me right now.

What's the best advice anyone ever gave you?

'Measure twice, cut once'.

Always check your work and never assume something is correct. This is really important in my role, as the smallest mechanical-based design mistake can snowball into something far greater. Following this advice has enabled me to always produce work of a high standard.

What, or who inspires you?

The idea that progression is constant.

I'm inspired by the changes that happen upon every design so it can improve it above the next. This process transcends my kind of work as there is no end goal in sight, just a constant level of improvement that evolves over time. This inspires me to be better at my job, as opposed to developing a linear career by rising through the ranks of a company.

How do you keep up to speed with what's happening in the industry?

Due to the varied nature of design, it often works on a project-by-project basis. However, I would say that a review after project completion helps me to continue learning and developing and discover new or better ways of doing things.

What was the most challenging project or assignment you've worked on?

When working on an offshore oil and gas industry integrity replacement project, I had to create designs for structural and pipework replacement. These designs were time-dependent and could impact on the day-to-day running of a fully operating oil rig. Everything had to fit the first time around and in such a way that the drilling operations weren't interrupted.

If you could start your life again, what would you do differently?

I would take an industrial placement opportunity rather than taking the academic university route.

I find that experience on the job outweighs what can be gained academically in the long-run. The difference between studying the theory and working on an evolving project can be significant.

You finish work today and step outside the office to find a lottery ticket that ends up winning $10 million. What would you do?

I would create a pop-up bar and travel the world!

How do you switch off after a day at work?

I find that climbing really helps me to switch off from work mentally.

You need to plan and problem-solve your route up the wall, and physically it gets the endorphins flowing! It's a strong mental and physical challenge, which I am yet to come across in any of my other pursuits.

If you had one wish for the future of your industry, what would it be?

To put more emphasis on energy recovery, to save resources and become more environmentally sustainable.

How should people connect with you?

Through Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-hindmarsh-a3b69625/