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“I would like to nominate David Millar CEng MICE for Rail Engineer of the Year for his innovative solutions to solving complex engineering problems. David’s engineering skills have been the brains and driving force behind many successful railway civils engineering bridge schemes over the last 25 years. Whether it be the new Luton Airport Parkway DART footbridge, which was slid into place over the live Midland Mainline, whilst the station remained fully open below, to the more recently highly commended bridge installations on the HS2 project at Fulfen Wood and Streethay.
The bridge in the photo behind David is the 6200-ton reinforced concrete box structure called Fulfen Wood, which was installed during the 9-day WCML blockade in July 2023 and is the largest and heaviest bridge structure to be installed in the UK using Self Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMT’s). David strongly believed that using SPMT’s instead of a bridge slide solution would be far more cost effective, substantially reduce the construction risks and would be much quicker to install during the blockade. It also led to a substantial reduction in reinforced concrete, which reduced the carbon footprint and made the scheme overall much more sustainable.
David even created scale models in his own time, to further demonstrate the methodology and benefits of changing to SPMTs.
Because of David’s knowledge and drive, the scheme was eventually changed to the one you can see in the photo and was successfully installed under the WCML. The WCML was handed back the Network Rail at the end of the 9-day blockade 4 hours early.
It should also be noted that David also had a second bridge being installed at the same time as Fulfen Wood, called Streethay and this too was successfully installed during a 72-day blockade of the South Staffordshire Line and handed back to Network Rail 24 hours early. David’s engineering input and detailed 72-day programming meant any risk of a possession over run was fully mitigated.
David is the Civils Responsible Engineer (CRE) and temporary works coordinator for both schemes, which enabled him to have a strong influence in both the permanent and temporary work designs.
Over the years that I have been fortunate to work in David’s team, his innovative solutions to temporary works has amazed everyone. Whether it be cantilevering scaffolding platforms from the ends of a footbridge to underslung concrete cill beams installed on bridge decks prior being transported into position; we have seen some great ideas being conceived on paper and then developed into formal temporary works designs and then being delivered on site with precision engineering accuracy. Once again you only need to look in the photo above to see some of these ideas being turned into reality on site.
David is also a great Project Manager and a great team leader who quickly gains the respect of his team, Network Rail, HS2 and all the Sub Contractors who will all say it’s a pleasure working for him.
One of his main attributes is that David plans everything meticulously months in advance and to the finest detail and is then calm and confident on site when major milestones are occurring. This then has a major positive effect for the rest of the team who develop the same positive attitude and eliminates any kind of stress or anxiety on the rest of the team.
He is always available and never afraid to get his hands dirty on site or do the day-to-day paperwork. He is also an exceptional speaker and is very enthusiastic and patient at getting his point across to the Client and Senior Management when changes need to occur. This then builds up a strong level of confidence and trust with the Integrated Project Team and beyond.
As a final note it is worth saying that David lives and breathes civil engineering, even during his time away from work he enjoys nothing more than developing schemes whether it be the scale models of concept bridge installations, story boards for the Client’s, eliminating construction problems further down the programme or developing his DBM2 bridges website. It’s worth saying that David’s website (www.dbmbridges2.com) has been developed to help junior engineers and designers as a free rail/civil engineering resource.
David is always enthusiastic about passing on his skills and knowledge to other people, he is a Stem Ambassador, mentor for ICE Charterships, has given ICE talks, encouraged apprenticeships and always has the time to give well respected advice to anyone who needs it.
This is why David Millar should be nominated and recognised as one of the most talented Rail Engineers in the country.“
“David Millar was in charge of managing the design and the works for the West Coast Mainline Bridge and South Staffordshire Line Bridge which took place in summer. He created two great teams and he enhanced the teamwork. Very challenging projects both of them with tight deadlines, however both were delivered on time, with the best of quality and high standards on H&S. David was responsible also for changing the methodology from Auto-rippage slide to SPMT which reduced the cost, time, and risks associated with the activities. All the members of the teams were grateful for working with David and we learned a lot during both blockades. Not only how construction and engineering works but also how to support and respect each other. Very well-deserved nomination!“
“David is an excellent manager, communicator, and planner. His years of rail work have made him excellent at quickly responding to any variability that inevitably arises during the construction phase. But what makes David great to work with is his pragmatic but affable approach to his team (including sub-contractors!). David listens and more importantly hears everyone's queries and reacts appropriately. Thank you, David!“
“Dave has a wealth of knowledge and practical experience which he not only draws on to deliver schemes but also uses to ensures every member of his team learns not only what is happening but why.
Dave often goes above and beyond to ensure that the best engineering solution is selected for the task at hand.“
“Dave stands as an exemplary role model for young engineers, inspiring them to pursue careers in the rail and engineering sectors and nurturing their professional growth. His passion for the industry is infectious, and his leadership has left a mark on the engineers who have had the privilege of working alongside him... including myself! With his extensive experience and expertise, Dave has a deep understanding of the workings of the rail industry, providing invaluable guidance and mentorship to the next generation of engineers.
Recently Dave was the leading figure in the delivery of the West Coast Mainline and Streethay blockades on the HS2 Area North Project. His meticulous planning and composed delivery style resulted in a successful outcome for the team. To note, the WCML was the largest SPMT drive ever seen in the UK!
What truly sets David Millar apart is his unrelenting passion for the industry and his desire to make a real change. By awarding Dave the accolade, you would not only honour an outstanding individual but also inspire others to follow in his footsteps, making invaluable contributions to the industry's continued growth and success.“
“Well done to you and everyone else who was involved for the Awards event last weekend, it went really well didn't it. Eve and I had a great time thanks, and it was really good to see everyone.”
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