Welcoming Lucas Cunningham to the HWA team

In May 2025, we were delighted to welcome engineer Lucas Cunningham to the HWA team.

Lucas’ career began in September 2019 as a bridges engineer, where he gained valuable experience undertaking structural assessments. In 2021, he transitioned into structural design, further developing his technical skills. His hard work and dedication were recognised in July 2023 when he graduated from the University of Derby with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and in February 2024 when he became an Incorporated Engineer with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).

Inspired by his grandfather, an engineer at the renowned Rolls-Royce factory in Derbyshire, Lucas has long had a passion for engineering. Combined with a strong interest in buildings and a solid academic foundation in maths and physics, civil and structural engineering was a natural career path for him. Balancing full time work while studying for 4 years posed its challenges, but Lucas is proud that his determination and perseverance have paid off.

Lucas brings a strong command of structural engineering modelling and drawing software to the team, and he continues to stay ahead of industry developments through regular CPD seminars and ICE events. Keen to advance his technical knowledge, he is equally enthusiastic about developing strong client relationships and delivering successful projects.

A standout project in Lucas’ portfolio is his role as lead structural designer for 2 storey educational facility of steel framed construction. Responsible for RIBA Stage 3 design and analysis, Lucas worked closely with architects and MEP engineers to ensure the project was delivered on time and within budget. He credits the project’s success to close collaboration and a commitment to quality; values he brings to every project he undertakes.

Hard work and teamwork are at the core of Lucas’ professional ethos, and we are confident he will carry that same spirit into his role at HWA. With a clear goal of progressing his career and eventually managing his own projects, Lucas is driven by a passion for excellence.

Outside of work, Lucas values a healthy work life balance. A keen golfer and lifelong Derby County FC fan, he enjoys spending time on the course and in the stands. He also appreciates a well earned pint after a productive day.

When asked for advice for aspiring civil and structural engineers, Lucas encourages them to explore the broad range of opportunities within the field: “Don’t settle too early into your discipline to early, try different things out and see what you enjoy.”

We’re thrilled to have Lucas on board and look forward to the knowledge, energy, and enthusiasm he will bring to our team and projects.