Kirsten Ross

Profile

About you and your professonal life​

Can you tell us about your role and what a typical day looks like for you?​

I’m a Mechanical building service consultant engineer mainly designing mechanical and sustainable solutions on projects across the RIBA stages for new builds and refurbishments. ​

Which projects are you most proud to have worked on during your career?​

I've been fortunate to work on a range of rewarding projects throughout my career, but some of the ones I'm most proud of are major healthcare developments, including New Park House Mental Health Hospital in Manchester and Hillerød Hospital in Denmark. These projects provided the opportunity to contribute to facilities that have a real impact on people's wellbeing and communities.

I also particularly enjoyed being involved in the building services design for Tain Community Campus, my former high school. Seeing a project so closely connected to my own community come to life was incredibly rewarding, especially as it was designed to Passivhaus standards, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.

Are you attached to any built environment professional organisations orlearned societies?

I am involved with the local CIBSE network mainly within their STEM outreach and NEXTGen. I also enjoy attending BCO and Women in Property events.

What do you think are the unique benefits of studying at Heriot-Watt University?​

One of the key benefits of studying at Heriot-Watt University is the broad understanding it provides of the built environment and the wider construction industry. The programme gave me valuable insight into building services engineering, the design process, and the different roles that come together within a project team. This foundation helped me understand how different disciplines collaborate to deliver successful projects.

Another significant advantage is the professional network you build during your time at university. Many of the people you study alongside go on to become colleagues, collaborators and industry contacts, making those connections invaluable throughout your career.

Any advice you would give to your younger self or students currentlystudying at Heriot-Watt University?​

Take up all the opportunities you can, from site visits to group project activities. ​

Any notable memories about your time in Edinburgh? ​

I gained a lot from completing the 4th Year design project which I am now enjoying helping with the mentoring of. ​

Can you sum up your time at Heriot-Watt University?​

5 years of hard work but it sent me up well for working in the industry and I am still good friends with people I studied on my course alongside.​