An interview with Kenyan Engineer Andrew Kago
Andrew Kago is an engineer at Stands Engineers in Kenya and new member to ISCS. He tends to be introverted, but passionate about each project as well as the sum of his contributions to the built environment. He received his education in civil engineering at the University of Nairobi and has worked in both the public and private sectors focusing on water, transport and structures. He is currently researching transportation of Heavy Crude Oil via Kenya’s export pipeline. Thanks to modern technology we were able to “sit down” with our long-distance friend and have a candid conversation about life and work in Kenya.
ISCS: Why build?
Andrew: Not only is there the creative problem solving exercise associated with each project, but the finished structure stands as a monument representing the effort to assemble it. That brings its own joy and confidence, secretly inscribed inside each facility.
ISCS: Can you describe what has changed in your work from day one down to today?
Andrew: Adapting BIM into my practice helped in my evolution from estimation engineer to management and consulting in construction. It has made a difference of three fold in my career. With that being said I would caution younger engineers to embrace technology cautiously and adopt a technology only after being able to achieve the results by hand to ensure full mastery. For example, do not rush to learn how to produce a Bending Moment Diagram (BMD) using design software if you cannot draw a BMD by hand.
ISCS: Do you still draw often?
Andrew: Yes. I carry out steel detailing from structural 2D drawings. This is important for costing, preparing workshop fabrication drawings and communicating site instructions. If you can draw it you understand it. However, the importance of BIM proficiency in tendering and construction, the impact of 3D models in communicating clearly cannot be understated. It certainly helps minimize misunderstandings, delays, and material waste.
ISCS: What considerations do you make for material, technology and product selection?
Andrew: For materials, two main factors to consider are the lifespan of the structure and the specific exposure a facility will have to agents of weathering and corrosion. Technology selection can be difficult when there is not an available skilled labor or technological infrastructure to support ideal choices and cost is always a factor, of course.
ISCS : when you were a child did you always want to become an engineer?
Andrew: Yes, I was always creative in building my own toys and excelled in sciences comfortably. It was unfortunate that in the early 90s, as I grew up, Kenya lacked the right environment to inspire the engineering profession in children. This was attributed to lack of internet connection and the rising number of white elephants to name a few.
So by passing my exams, I was called to the engineering school and discovered myself.
ISCS: Where would you like to see organizations like ISCS focus their efforts?
Andrew: Innovations. I love exploring and learning about new technologies; plant & machinery operations, gadgets, etc. Showcasing technologies that increase sustainability and lower costs are always worthwhile.
ISCS: How is the effect of globalization manifesting in the construction industry in Kenya?
Andrew: The presence of large international firms like AECOM, China Roads and Bridge Co, and Bechtel have raised best practices in Kenya. These ideas trickle down to Kenyan engineers. These efforts, supported by our government, help meet the growing demand for sophisticated engineering and construction professionals.
ISCS: In what ways does Kenya affect world architecture?
Andrew: Kenya’s diverse cultures and scenic landscapes offer a rich source of inspiration to the creative mind. I would highly encourage designers and engineers to come and see it in person. Kenya is beautiful and will leave an impression.
ISCS: Where do you believe you make the most impact?
Andrew: I write proposals and supporting documentation from inception to construction. I would like to I believe I have helped raise the bar to achieve higher standards along the way for the entirety of each project. With each project my experience and knowledge grows which then make me even more capable for meeting the challenges of the next project.
ISCS: Which construction professionals working today do you admire the most?
Andrew: Bjarke Ingels tops the list on the global stage. I think he is a genius at his work. In Africa I believe Boni Chileshe at AECOM is able to balance culture, design and construction on a very large scale. I am humbled by his accomplishments.
ISCS: What music are you currently listening to?
Andrew: At the moment, I have classical music, Best of Tchaikovsky, playing low on the background.
ISCS: Thank you for your time Andrew. We look forward to hearing more news from you and Kenya.
Andrew: Thank you too. It has been a pleasure. I am really looking forward to networking in and outside of Kenya, increasing my experience and making new friendships through international organizations.