Blair Telfer

Describe what the Mott Mac Life means to you in three words

Growth, innovation, fun.

What do you enjoy about working here?

The calibre of people I work alongside and the common goal to improve our society. The family-oriented culture and sense of ownership that comes from being employee-owned creates an environment that is more about great social outcomes rather than being solely motivated by financial gain.

Tell us about your specialism and why you chose it

I specialise in trenchless technology, which involves methods of installing, repairing or replacing underground infrastructure with minimal surface excavation. Trenchless technology is at the forefront of innovation in the 3Waters and utility space. It brings huge benefits to society and community through less disruption to the public and environment, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and cost.

Why did you choose to join Mott MacDonald?

Mott MacDonald has countless people who I respect in a professional and personal sense. The work environment has great opportunities for all of us to grow and continue to develop ourselves.

What have you learnt while working at Mott MacDonald?

The level of interaction and co-ordination required between multiple disciplines to deliver large scale facility projects successfully.

How do you demonstrate technical excellence in your work?

By challenging a status quo idea and employing lessons learnt every day. I believe strongly in the Kaizen principles of continuous improvement through small steps.

How do you contribute to Mott MacDonald making a difference to people and the planet?

I’m a huge advocate for trenchless technology and always ready to educate and mentor our people in new trenchless techniques they may not be aware of. Trenchless techniques are proven to be beneficial by minimising disruptions and impacts on society and the environment.

What are your career highlights and achievements?

I led New Zealand’s largest trenchless wastewater pipeline renewal comprising 470m of 1800mm diameter sewer pipe in a continuous installation. All this was done during Covid-19 full lockdown.

Other highlights include contributing to NZQA Unit standards for trenchless technology and developing  new and improved polyethylene welding standards. More recently, I chaired a working party to develop an Australian and New Zealand standard (AS/NZS) for gravity pipe liner design and am currently chairing the working group for the Australasian guidelines for pressure pipelining technology.