The Ground Investigation Podcast - E18: Geohazards Unveiled: A Conversation with Andy Wyllie

E18: Geohazards Unveiled: A Conversation with Andy Wyllie

09/21/23 • 56 min

Andy Wyllie, our esteemed guest on today's Ground Investigation Podcast, is a geotechnical expert with a truly global perspective. With a career spanning continents and a passion for tackling some of the most challenging geohazards on Earth, Andy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the world of ground engineering.

Introduction and Background

Meet Andy Wyllie, a geotechnical expert with global experience.
Learn how his work in Australia, the USA, and the UK has shaped his career.

Educational Background

Andy's research focused on earthquake-induced landslides and geohazards.
Discover why he chose to specialise in geohazards.

Work Experience

Andy's successful projects demonstrate innovative geohazard solutions.
Explore his role as a GIS technician and its impact on ground engineering.

Skills and Expertise

Learn about crucial software tools and technologies in his work.
Stay updated with the latest geotechnical trends for professional growth.

Career and Personal Development

His writing background aids in communicating complex technical info.

Geotechnical and Geohazards Expertise

Discover challenging projects he's tackled.
Surface instability assessments' importance in construction.
Unique challenges in mining cavity assessments.

Industry Challenges

Pressing geotechnical challenges and solutions.

Professional Memberships

The role of professional affiliations in career growth.

Mental Health in the Industry

Evolving attitudes towards mental health in the field.
Fostering empathy and understanding in the workplace.
Proactive measures for addressing work-related stress.

Modernisation of the Industry

Traditional mindsets hindering innovation.
Embracing technological advancements and convincing stakeholders.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Recommendations for geotechnical resources.

Closing Thoughts

Predictions for the future of geotechnical engineering.
Advice for aspiring professionals.
Exciting projects in the geotechnical sector.

New Feature Quickfire Questions

Tune in for rapid insights from Andy!

For more information on what was shared in this episode and to connect with Michael head to https://girec.co.uk/

Make sure you subscribe to the show to join host Michael Taylor as he discusses the ups and downs of running a business in the GI industry, getting geological experts to share their learnings and lessons as well as their plans for the future, highlighting what they think will improve the ground investigation industry moving forward.

Introduction and Background

Meet Andy Wyllie, a geotechnical expert with global experience.
Learn how his work in Australia, the USA, and the UK has shaped his career.

Educational Background

Andy's research focused on earthquake-induced landslides and geohazards.
Discover why he chose to specialise in geohazards.

Work Experience

Andy's successful projects demonstrate innovative geohazard solutions.
Explore his role as a GIS technician and its impact on ground engineering.

Skills and Expertise

Learn about crucial software tools and technologies in his work.
Stay updated with the latest geotechnical trends for professional growth.

Career and Personal Development

His writing background aids in communicating complex technical info.

Geotechnical and Geohazards Expertise

Discover challenging projects he's tackled.
Surface instability assessments' importance in construction.
Unique challenges in mining cavity assessments.

Industry Challenges

Pressing geotechnical challenges and solutions.

Professional Memberships

The role of professional affiliations in career growth.

Mental Health in the Industry

Evolving attitudes towards mental health in the field.
Fostering empathy and understanding in the workplace.
Proactive measures for addressing work-related stress.

Modernisation of the Industry

Traditional mindsets hindering innovation.
Embracing technological advancements and convincing stakeholders.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Recommendations for geotechnical resources.

Closing Thoughts

Predictions for the future of geotechnical engineering.
Advice for aspiring professionals.
Exciting projects in the geotechnical sector.

New Feature Quickfire Questions

Tune in for rapid insights from Andy!

For more information on what was shared in this episode and to connect with Michael head to https://girec.co.uk/

Previous Episode

E17: Geothermal Loops and Ground Investigations with Josh Joyce

In this episode of the Ground Investigation Podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of ground investigation and geothermal drilling with our guest, Josh Joyce. Josh shares his insights and experiences from his career journey, offering valuable information on the drilling industry and geothermal drilling.

Introduction and Career Journey:

Josh Joyce introduces himself, sharing his background and career trajectory.
He explains why he chose to enter the drilling industry and outlines the key objectives and challenges of geothermal drilling.

Drilling Industry Insights:

Josh provides insights into the geothermal drilling industry for listeners unfamiliar with it.
He highlights specific projects and drilling challenges he's encountered and discusses how he overcame them.
The differences between drilling in settings like railways and highways compared to farmer's fields are explored, along with the unique challenges each presents.

Drilling Techniques and Skills:

Josh discusses his journey from window sample drilling to operating a rotary drilling rig.
He delves into the perception among drillers regarding the skills required for different drilling techniques (WS, CP, and Rotary drilling).

Geothermal Loop Installation:

Josh describes the geothermal loop installation process in detail.
He outlines the key steps involved in drilling to desired depths and installing the loops.

Rig Maintenance:

The importance of rig maintenance is emphasised, and Josh shares tips for ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of drilling rigs.

Geological Challenges:

Josh shares anecdotes about unique geological challenges he has encountered during his career.
He provides examples and discusses how he dealt with these challenges.

Advice for Aspiring Drillers:

Josh imparts valuable advice to those considering a career in drilling, drawing from his own experiences.
He reflects on what he wishes he had known before entering the drilling industry and what changes he would make if possible.

Industry Insights and Future Plans:

Josh reveals what he would miss the most about the industry if he stopped drilling today.
He discusses his future plans in drilling and what he hopes to achieve.

Information Overload and LinkedIn Articles:

Josh discusses the challenges of managing information overload in the drilling industry.
He touches on his experiences writing articles on LinkedIn to share industry knowledge.

Future Goals and Aspirations:

Josh provides details about a book he's working on and his plans for its publication.

Tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of the drilling industry, geothermal drilling, and the career journey of Josh Joyce. Whether you're an industry professional or simply curious about the world beneath our feet, this episode has something to offer.

For more information on what was shared in this episode and to connect with Michael head to https://girec.co.uk/

Next Episode

E19: Mistakes to Mastery: 30 Years of Ground Investigations with Natalie Bews (Part 1)

Welcome to a one-of-a-kind journey through the depths of the Earth on The Ground Investigation podcast! In this episode, we delve into the hidden realms of geotechnical ground investigation with a luminary of the industry, Natalie Bews, who has spent over three decades shaping the ground beneath our feet.

But what sets this podcast apart? Here's why you should tune in:

1. A Rare Glimpse into an Unsung World:

Our guest, Natalie Bews, isn't just an industry veteran; she's a storyteller who unveils the captivating narratives buried beneath the surface. Join us as we unearth the fascinating stories of rocks, soil, and the secrets they hold.

2. Evolution of an Entire Industry:

Explore how the geotechnical ground investigation industry has transformed over the years, guided by key drivers that Natalie Bews has experienced firsthand. Gain unique insights into the forces shaping our infrastructure and landscapes.

3. Leadership Secrets Revealed:

Discover the art of leadership and teamwork in the most challenging underground environments. Natalie shares her experiences, offering a rare glimpse into what it takes to lead and inspire in the geotechnical field.

4. Industry Insider Knowledge:

Natalie's active involvement in industry associations like the British Drilling Association has given her unparalleled insights into the industry's workings. Learn how these associations influence the profession and enhance your understanding of the field.

5. Safety, Skills, and Career Growth:

Dive deep into the crucial aspect of safety in ground investigations and learn how certifications can take your career to new depths. Natalie's advice is invaluable for professionals seeking to advance in this exciting field.

6. Remarkable Career Milestones:

Follow Natalie's journey from the ground up, from her academic beginnings in Applied Geology to managing multi-million-pound projects, including the iconic HS2. Explore the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that shaped her path.

7. Strategies for Success:

If you're curious about how to drive growth and achieve significant margin improvements in any industry, Natalie Bews has some exclusive strategies to share from her impressive career.

For more information on what was shared in this episode and to connect with Michael head to https://girec.co.uk/