5 minutes with … Lorraine Burton at FM Conway

Why did you choose construction as a career?

I actually wanted to work in pharmaceuticals or forensic science when I was younger, but then a job came up in construction at an asphalt and bitumen testing lab. I remember the hiring manager asked if I was sure I wanted to do this – it is dirty and dusty work. But I knew it was for me and I pestered them until I got the job! I enjoy the blend of operational, technical and on-site work.

What is it like being you (and doing your job)?

I run our innovation laboratory at FM Conway – we test infrastructure materials, looking at how they will perform in the real world and assessing the cost efficiency, durability and sustainability of different designs.

One of the big areas we focus on is how we can use more recycled asphalt in road specifications for our local authority clients, building up the evidence to help the industry to move to a more circular resource model. We also do testing for other commercial clients.

What are you most proud of in your career to date?

Two things: I am proud of the part the lab has played in championing the use of recycled material. That has always been something we have pushed at FM Conway.

We have an open mindset about what is doable – I tell my team, everything is impossible until you try it! We are changing the industry’s mindset around materials recovery and re-use, but there is still more to do.

I am also really proud of the work we have done to get young people into our sector. About 10 years ago, most people in this field were not far from retirement.

We have had a real push to get apprentices into the lab and it has been fantastic to see the talent coming through our doors. We are investing in people for the future, as well as R&D for materials.

What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?

A big challenge is how we build and design for changing weather patterns. We have had intense heat spells in the UK over the past five years and that can be an issue for roads, with black asphalt absorbing the heat. The impact is worse for newer roads.

If it continues to get hotter, then we need new products ready that can cope with more extreme temperatures. We are trialling different materials and additives, and taking lessons from countries with warmer climates like Spain and Turkey.

If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?

I am always very positive about what we can achieve in construction, especially when we work together. I am encouraged by the fact that different trade bodies and organisations in the industry are collaborating to find answers to the biggest issues we face, like climate change.

What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?

Whatever happens, don’t take any rubbish! If you think you are right, then have courage of your convictions.

What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?

Treat everyone around you with respect and be courteous, whether you are in the lab or out on site and interacting with the public. Also, in our job you have got to really pay attention to the detail.

As an accredited laboratory, we have to be rigorous about how we carry out our testing to make sure we get accurate results.

Tell us about a secret skill that we don’t know you have?

Years ago I used to do Thai boxing! Probably now, it’s being a nanna to my amazing grandchildren.

Early bird or night owl?

Definitely an early bird – I normally start work between 5-6am. Our job can involve long days depending on what you are working on, but I have always loved what I do.

What is your favourite food?

It has to be chicken Caesar salad. I am renowned in the office for having it!