November Newsletter – Meet the Team

Meet the Team

Ruth McIntosh, Principal Planning Engineer

I’ve been with CMAL since 2008, so it’s been interesting watching the company grow and change. I was previously a consulting civil engineer, and worked on many CalMac projects, but I really wanted to be involved in creating long term strategies for the port infrastructure around the west coast, and play a key role in influencing them. Understanding how important the ferry connections are to island communities, I felt strongly about wanting to make a positive impact.

Day in the life:

My role at CMAL is to represent the port infrastructure assets; I determine scopes of work for the team to deliver, and prioritise the planning of the infrastructure. I also act as liaison between our steering groups and delivering team, resolving issues and confirming developments are being implemented. Currently, I’m also overseeing the Skye Triangle Infrastructure Programme and the planning stages of harbour upgrade work at Kennacraig, Oban and within the Small Vessel Replacement Programme.

The biggest challenge in my role is determining plans and processes that allow infrastructure to be in line with modern standards, whilst keeping the ports and ferries operational, and finding ways to maintain services as we convert or upgrade piers.

Another challenge, from a personal level, has been working from home while juggling home-schooling for two children during covid. My job is so people-focused, the pandemic came with the test to stay connected with stakeholders, from our working groups to the local communities. It’s been difficult, but our team have really committed to maintaining those connections throughout this time.

Nasir Uddin, Senior Civil Engineer

Two years ago in 2019,was looking for a change when I came across the role of Senior Civil Engineer at CMAL. With years of heavy civil engineering experience and a background in charity work, I knew I would be a great fit in serving communities across Scotland and the islands. CMAL does an extraordinary amount of work to ensure lifeline services are maintained to the islands, and as someone who loves to travel to the Scottish islands regularly, I am proud to serve our communities.

Day in the life: No two days are the same as a project manager within CMAL. I am there to ensure all projects are progressing and delivered on time and to budget. I frequently meet with consultants and contractors to review progress, regularly liaise with our key stakeholders on various aspects of projects and visit our ports. From supervising progress on the Islay vessels enabling works, to looking into options for the Cumbrae slipway and to dealing with various other repairing works, my role involves making sure operational requirements are addressed, consultants are met with, and opinions are heard from our stakeholders.

There are a few challenges in my role, including managing stakeholder expectations whilst ensuring we comply with all relevant regulatory requirements. Successfully implementing the right engineering solutions, in a very demanding environment, on time and to budget. That’s all part of the job though, and what I love most – finding solutions that will benefit all involved.