Meet Ben, the newest member of our team!
Even though Ben Francis has been with Topo for about 6 months now, we would like to take this opportunity to officially introduce him. We caught up with Ben to find out a bit more about him.
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Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am an Environmental Scientist and a Sunshine Coast local. I am also currently completing a PhD in natural resource economics and management with a focus on forestry.
How long have you been with Topo?
I have been with Topo for around 6 months now on a part time basis whilst completing my PhD.
What do you think you can bring to the company?
As an experienced environmental scientist I feel that I can complement Topo’s already diverse skill set and add to the company’s capabilities. In recent years, I have gained experience in the civil construction industry, and am very familiar with construction activities and the environmental requirements surrounding them.
I also have a strong background in soil science, having worked in research roles prior to moving out into industry. I have already been able to utilise this background with Topo, having carried out several detailed Acid Sulfate Soil investigations and verification works on local projects. Additionally, as an environmental scientist, I am very comfortable with environmental chemistry, more specifically water and soil chemistry, and have a detailed understanding of water and soil quality requirements surrounding construction activities and how to manage these requirements.
The current work I am undertaking as part of my PhD research also provides me with a detailed understanding of forestry practices and the regulations surrounding them. This is also relevant to construction activities in terms of the requirements surrounding clearing and working within different regional ecosystems.
How else do you think undertaking a PhD will be beneficial?
A PhD is a large project that the student needs to manage from start to finish, which develops considerable project management skills. So far for me this has included managing funding, interacting with various stakeholders, delivering milestone reports to funding providers and presenting my findings to a variety of audiences.
Also, one of the main reasons I was attracted to Topo as a company was that all of the guys are passionate about the industry and are keen to innovate to improve outcomes. I am sure that having research skills will come in useful for some of the new ideas the team are continuing to develop.
What were you doing prior to studying Environmental Science?
Before going to university, I had completely different careers. Straight out of school I completed a trade and worked as a qualified tradesman for several years. This background has allowed me to bring a practical and hands on approach to my career as an Enviro.
I also spent a couple of years helping my Dad run his transport company, which has provided a great platform for organising jobs and communicating with customers and staff.
Other than my work history, I travelled quite extensively before uni, visiting around 45 countries.
What are your interests outside of work and study?
Like many Sunshine Coast locals, I am a surfer. I have always loved music as well and play a little bit of guitar when I get a chance. More recently, I have developed an interest in photography and trying to do that as much as I can. I am definitely looking forward to finding more time for these things when I complete my study.
What are your plans for your future career?
I am looking forward to diving into my work with Topo. Again, all of the guys are passionate about the industry and are keen to be at the forefront of innovation. I am really looking forward to being involved in the company and working on some exciting projects with the team.
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Welcome to the team, Ben!
Pictured: Ben and his travels - Buderim Falls, Hooker Valley Trek and Hobbiton (NZ)