Like its 18th Century predecessors, today’s Lunar Society provides a dynamic forum for its membership to influence change through focusing and informing debate, linking social, economic, scientific and cultural thinking, and catalysing action on issues critical to the common good.

The Lunar Interviews showcase thought leaders working in Birmingham and the wider region who shine a light on significant issues and topics relevant to our lives.     

At the 2024 Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards, 19-year-old Santina Bunting became the youngest ever Young Professional of the Year winner, also picking up the Apprentice of the Year award. Santina is a Technician with the Institute of Civil Engineers, pursuing a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship at Warwick University while working as a Geotechnics Apprentice at Birmingham-based engineering consultancy Arup.

Lunar Society Trustee David Searle sits down with Santina to find out more about her journey.

You recently became the youngest ever Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year. What did you present to the judges when you were going through the award process?

I feel incredibly honoured to have received both the Apprentice of the Year award and the distinction of being the youngest-ever overall winner in the 24-year history of Greater Birmingham. The application process was straightforward, involving an initial questionnaire followed by an in-person interview after being shortlisted.

Throughout the process, my goal was to highlight my commitment to excellence in my apprenticeship and my passion for advocacy. I strive to be the role model I wish I’d had when I first started.

Your educational background is in civil engineering and construction. Why were you drawn to this topic and what part of it interests you most?

My journey into civil engineering and construction began at age 15, when I decided to take a less traditional path by starting an apprenticeship right after finishing my GCSEs. At my grammar school, the emphasis was strongly on doing A-levels and then going to university, but I felt that diving straight into the working world was the right choice for me. I was one of only 1 out of 150 students to choose an apprenticeship, which made my path unique from the beginning.

One of the major attractions of an apprenticeship was the chance to continue my education while also working on real-life projects. This route offered me the best of both worlds—ongoing learning, practical on-the-job experience, and an income at a young age, which all felt incredibly valuable. Through work experiences and a competition with the Institution of Engineering and Technology, I had been exposed to aspects of engineering, and I found myself drawn to it. With a natural interest in STEM subjects, as well as a love of Lego, and strengths in communication and problem-solving, engineering felt like the perfect fit.

The aspect that truly inspired me, though, was the opportunity to make a positive impact on society. Engineers play such a crucial role in shaping the world around us—from designing safer infrastructure to improving environmental sustainability. Knowing that the projects I work on could improve lives and contribute to communities motivates me daily. The ability to leave a lasting, meaningful legacy through my work is what makes civil engineering and construction deeply fulfilling for me.

You’re currently a Geotechnics Apprentice at an engineering firm. Can you explain a bit more about geotechnics and why it’s important?

Ground engineering is arguably the backbone of all civil engineering. Now, I know all teams say this, but it is true. Let’s consider this: what do we build everything on? The ground. And how do we ensure the ground can safely support a structure? By studying and testing its properties. This is the essence of geotechnics – understanding the behaviour and characteristics of the ground to ensure that any structure we build on it will be stable and safe.

Every skyscraper, bridge, tunnel, and dam relies on foundational geotechnical knowledge. Without accurately assessing and understanding how soil, rock, and groundwater will interact under the weight of these structures, we cannot guarantee their safety or durability.

Geotechnics is a branch of civil engineering focused on the behaviour of earth materials, like soil and rock, and how they interact with structures. This knowledge is essential for designing safe and stable foundations, slopes, tunnels, embankments, and other earth-related structures. Geotechnical engineering responsibilities include foundation design, slope stability analysis, site investigations, ground contamination assessment and much more

Geotechnics is important for several reasons. First, geotechnical engineers play a key role in avoiding disasters like landslides, sinkholes, and structural collapses. By studying and mitigating risks within soil and rock, they help ensure public safety. Second, through careful planning, geotechnical engineers control groundwater contamination, design sustainable landfills, and manage the impact of construction on ecosystems, thus protecting the environment. Additionally, geotechnical engineers often get out in the field to assess real-world conditions. This includes gathering historical data on the site (for example, whether it was a former landfill or coal mine), which can significantly affect design choices and project planning.

There are many building projects ongoing in Birmingham, particularly the city centre, at the moment. What do you think are the biggest challenges facing a large city when it comes to engineering / construction, and equally, what are the biggest opportunities?

Birmingham’s ongoing transformation, especially in the city centre, brings both challenges and exciting opportunities for engineering and construction.

A key challenge is managing the high volume of construction in a dense urban area. With so many projects in the heart of the city, there is significant pressure to minimise disruption to daily life, especially to traffic flow, which can be affected by road closures, diversions, and construction noise. Additionally, balancing the preservation of Birmingham’s historic architecture with modern development is another challenge, as the city seeks to retain its heritage while modernising its skyline.

On the opportunity side, developments drive economic growth and job creation, aligning with Birmingham’s Big City Plan aims. Projects like Paradise, with its focus on high-quality office space, retail, and hospitality, not only stimulate local employment but also attract businesses. For instance, my own company, Arup, recently moved back into the city centre, positioning Birmingham as a competitive destination for investment, both national and international. The transformation of Perry Barr, catalysed by the 2022 Commonwealth Games, will also create a new hub for residents, with improved transport links, new housing, and community spaces. Personally, I notice that when I drive through the area, it feels more vibrant, increasing its appeal, particularly for younger residents and families.

Another challenge to engineering and construction is that Birmingham’s infrastructure is dated, making it challenging to integrate new developments with old systems. Existing water, gas, and electrical networks often require substantial upgrades or rerouting to accommodate modern requirements, which can add financial challenges to a project.

Birmingham’s wave of construction also allows for improvements in infrastructure and public spaces. Projects are increasingly designed with “smart city” technology, integrating energy-efficient systems and IoT-enabled infrastructure that will support better urban management and connectivity. As a result, Birmingham can offer a more accessible and liveable environment, with easier navigation, smarter transport options, and seamless digital connectivity. For example, the extension of the tram into Digbeth and the council’s desire to create industry hubs across Birmingham are both steps in this direction.

Lastly, another challenge—not just in Birmingham but highlighted frequently in the news—is the skilled labour shortage. The high demand for construction skills, especially with multiple projects like HS2, Paradise, and Perry Barr redevelopment happening simultaneously, has led to a shortage of qualified workers. Engineering firms must invest in training programmes and apprenticeships or recruit skilled labour from outside the region, which can increase project costs and timelines.

In terms of opportunities, there is strong potential for these new developments and engineering innovations to create spaces that foster community engagement and enrich Birmingham’s cultural scene. Public art installations, pedestrian plazas, and green areas within projects like Paradise are designed to enhance the social fabric of the city, providing spaces for events, gatherings, and arts programming. I often see festivals and other events happening in the city centre, which helps make Birmingham a more attractive place to live, work, and visit, strengthening its identity as a modern, dynamic city.

So overall I think Birmingham really does represent a lot of excitement for the construction and engineering industry however there will always be challenges to overcome.

What has been your experience as an apprentice and how do you think apprenticeships can help young people to develop professionally?

One of the main attractions of an apprenticeship was the chance to continue my theoretical education—a passion of mine—while gaining practical, on-the-job skills. In my role as an apprentice, I’ve worked on major national infrastructure projects, assisting with drawing production, database management, and engineering analysis. Surrounded by experienced colleagues, including a line manager with over 30 years in the industry, I’m constantly exposed to invaluable knowledge. I’ve had the chance to ask questions and learn directly from experts in the field.

I’ve also been fortunate enough to work on international projects, including those based in India, Saudi Arabia, and Africa. These experiences have taught me how engineering principles are applied in complex, real-world scenarios and have helped me develop essential skills in project management, communication, and problem-solving in dynamic environments.

Upon completing my Level 3 apprenticeship, in 2 rather than 3 years, I am now a qualified technician member of the Institute of Apprenticeships and Technical Education and continued on to do a Level 6 Civil Engineering Degree apprenticeship at Warwick University.

I believe apprenticeships offer young people unparalleled opportunities for professional development, given the sheer variety of skills we gain. I’ve acquired a host of technical skills specific to my role, as well as digital skills that are essential in today’s workplace. Equally important are the soft skills I’ve developed, like communication, organization, and teamwork.

Beyond the skills, apprenticeships allow young professionals to start building a network in their industry from an early stage, connecting with mentors and developing a strong sense of professional discipline. Apprenticeships also allow an individual to gain a deeper understanding of our field and the confidence to take on responsibilities—qualities that are hugely valuable to any company.

Finally, what’s your career goal and what would be a dream engineering / construction project you’d like to work on?     

Over the next five years, a key goal for me is to complete my degree apprenticeship and earn a degree in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering. Alongside my degree, I aim to achieve Incorporated Engineer status with the Institution of Civil Engineers, building on the EngTech recognition I gained through my initial apprenticeship.

While engineering is technical, I think the people side of it is just as essential. I’ve always been an extroverted, people-oriented person, which I hope will allow me to make a positive impact in engineering through roles involving client and stakeholder engagement.

Having already had some experience with international projects, I’m also excited by the idea of working abroad. The opportunity to make an impact in different parts of the world is incredibly appealing to me, and I’m especially drawn to projects that prioritize social value. A project like the Bosco Verticale in Milan, Italy, would be a dream for me.

Bosco Verticale is an inspiring civil engineering project that combines sustainability with high-rise residential design. These twin towers are covered in over 900 trees and 20,000 plants, providing natural insulation, absorbing CO₂, and improving air quality. Its groundbreaking design even won the International Highrise Award. Working on a project like that, which seamlessly blends technical challenges with environmental and social impact, would be an ideal experience for me as an engineer.

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