One of the things I find most enjoyable about working in construction law is that with every new case, one must become familiar with a new aspect of construction and engineering.  From learning how to build a highway or a high rise, to how concrete is poured and tested, to how a gas-fired power station works – every case requires you to become somewhat of an expert on a very detailed facet of a construction project.  But often what is missing is the overall picture – how does it all fit together?

SCL(S)’s ‘Engineering 101’ is aimed at doing just that – to provide professionals involved in the construction industry with an overview of the materials, methodology and management of a construction project.

The course was split over 5 modules that spanned 4 evening sessions. Course presenter, Audrey Perez, took the group through carefully prepared materials and shared her personal experience and insights.  Audrey is a Civil Engineer who has been involved in the procurement, design, tendering and construction of a number of Singaporean landmark buildings. There were many interesting discussions during the course, as attendees asked questions and also shared their personal experiences and views.  

Personally, I found that Engineering 101 brought together many of the discrete issues that I had previously been exposed to.  The course’s scope covered everything from building features and basic principles relating to key materials, to information on project organisation and productivity, to construction methods and execution – all in a manner that was interesting and easy to comprehend.  Local Singapore developments, like the Marina Bay Sands and the Sail Residences, which are constructed on land reclaimed from the sea, were used as real-life illustrations to explain, for example, the importance of obtaining detailed and thorough land and soil surveys. The iconic Marina Bay Sands is a striking example of how engineers are able to incorporate impressive features such as cantilever rooftop pools through the use of reinforced beams, steel and concrete. I recommend Engineering 101 to other construction lawyers, especially junior practitioners, who wish to expand their construction and engineering knowledge.

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Contributed by

Andrea Stauber
King & Spalding