Robert is nationally recognised for his expertise in structural earthquake engineering. He retired from full-time work at WSP in 2016 after 28 years of service, but still occasionally consults out of the Wellington office.
During his career at WSP, Robert led numerous seismic design, assessment and strengthening projects – training many structural engineers in earthquake engineering along the way.
A citation prepared by WSP National Technical Leader for Geotechnical Engineering Pathmanathan Brabhaharan highlights Robert’s technical contribution to the engineering profession and publishing track record over many years.
The citation notes Robert’s involvement in earthquake response and recovery in New Zealand and overseas, including after Iran’s 1990 Manjil Earthquake and Taiwan’s 1999 Chi Chi Earthquake.
Robert was heavily involved with response and recovery following the 2010-2011 Canterbury Earthquake Sequence and has assisted Engineering NZ and the Earthquake Commission with expert advice in resolving insurance claims.
“He was part of the NZSEE’s management committee during 2013-2015 and contributed to several Society initiatives to enhance the resilience of New Zealand to earthquakes,” notes the citation.
“He has led many earthquake loss assessments for insurance companies, and for local authorities. The Wellington earthquake damage and loss assessments that he led for the region and lifelines in the early 1990s formed the basis for planning by the profession and the emergency management sector for many years.”
Congratulations Robert on this well-deserved recognition - from all your colleagues at WSP.
