Siu Fa Ng from Malaysia came to the Faculty of Technology at the University of Plymouth to study a BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering followed by an MSc in Flood Risk. She tells us how she is now helping to safeguard millions of businesses, homes and lives from flooding.
“I first became interested in managing flood risk while doing my BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering degree at the University of Plymouth. During the course I spent some time working as a placement student at the Environment Agency. My work included preparing flood risk and asset inspection reports on the Grand Union Canal and surveying low spot areas in risk of flooding around the Midlands. So, when I heard about the MSc Flood Risk I thought it was the perfect opportunity to help me pursue a career in flood risk management, especially as the course is accredited.
After graduating I began working in an Asset System Management team with the Environment Agency. My work includes improving and updating flood defence information on the Environment Agency’s National Flood and Coastal Defence Database. This information is used to decide whether it is worth building a new flood defence or investing in maintaining the current defences.
I am also currently working as a Project Manager on three different flood defence projects around North East Thames; one of the projects is to improve the condition of flood defence structures on health and safety ground in Tottenham. I feel that my degree has provided me a stepping stone in the work that I am doing.
Flood risk is a hot topic, not only in the UK, but also worldwide due to rising sea water levels and unpredictable global weather. Not many people know that six inches of rapidly moving flood water can easily knock a person down. It is very rewarding to know that I am working towards protecting millions of businesses, homes and lives.”
Siu Fa Ng, Malaysia
