75th Anniversary | SMEC celebrates 75 years
Karen Atkinson tells IWP&DC the remarkable story of SMEC, tracing its origins from the monumental Snowy Mountains Scheme to pioneering sustainable solutions worldwide, as it too celebrates 75 years of shaping the future of infrastructure and engineering
Above: Karen Atkinson is the global Executive Director, Dams and Hydropower for the Infrastructure + Energy Business of SJ Group, SMEC’s parent company. Karen is a Board Member of the International Hydropower Association and is passionate about promoting the critical role of hydropower in the energy transition as well as marine conservation and economic empowerment
Can you share the story of SMEC’s origins and its connection to the Snowy Hydro project? SMEC’s story began in 1949 when a group of visionary engineers established the Snowy Mountains Hydroelectric Authority to undertake one of the world’s most ambitious engineering projects – the Snowy Mountains Scheme, with 4,100 MW power generation, 16 dams and 7 power stations. SMEC, originally known as Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation, was born as the consulting arm of this iconic project. Its role was pivotal in providing engineering expertise and innovative solutions that powered the development of Australia’s largest renewable energy project. This foundational connection to such a monumental project laid the groundwork for SMEC’s future growth and success on the global stage. SMEC is delighted that we continue the journey as Owners Engineer advising on the Snowy 2.0 scheme creating 2,200 MW of pumped storage capacity for on-demand energy and large-scale storage for many generations to come.
Now a member of the Surbana Jurong (SJ) Group since 2016, SMEC continues to build upon this rich legacy, combining its engineering excellence with SJ Group’s global network and expertise to deliver even more impactful solutions for sustainable development worldwide.
Over the past 75 years, what have been some of the most significant milestones or projects that SMEC has been involved in? Throughout its history, SMEC has been involved in numerous landmark projects spanning continents. Aside from the Snowy Mountains Hydroelectric Scheme and Snowy 2.0, other notable milestones include the Kameng Hydropower Station Project in India, the Ulu Jelai Hydropower Project in Malaysia, the Karot Hydropower Project in Pakistan, the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, the Thwake Multi-purpose Water Development Program in Kenya and New Khanki Barrage Project in Pakistan. Notable projects in other sectors include the Sydney Metro Northwest Project, the Atal Tunnel Project in India and the Nairobi Expressway Project in Kenya. Each of these projects has not only contributed to economic development but also showcased SMEC’s commitment to sustainable engineering solutions.
How has SMEC evolved and adapted to changes in the engineering industry over the decades? SMEC’s ability to evolve and adapt to changes in the engineering industry has been integral to its enduring success. Embracing technological advancements, fostering a culture of innovation and nurturing a diverse talent pool have been key strategies in navigating evolving industry landscapes. By leveraging cutting- edge technologies such as digital engineering, artificial
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intelligence and sustainable design practices, SMEC continues to stay at the forefront of industry trends and deliver value-added solutions to its clients worldwide.
In what ways has SMEC contributed to innovation and sustainability in engineering practices? SMEC is committed to driving innovation and sustainability in engineering practices. Through its multidisciplinary approach, SMEC incorporates sustainable design principles, renewable energy solutions and environmental management strategies into its projects. Additionally, SMEC fosters collaboration with stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that address the challenges of climate change and promote sustainable development. As an active member of the International Hydropower Association (IHA), SMEC is dedicated to sustainable hydropower practices and is proud to have Hydropower Sustainability Standard Assessors on our team.
What role has SMEC played in fostering talent and expertise within the engineering field? SMEC recognises the importance of nurturing talent and expertise within the engineering field. Through mentorship programs, professional development initiatives and knowledge-sharing platforms, SMEC provides its employees with opportunities to grow and excel in their careers. This includes structured programs like Career Pathways, Global Leadership Development and Management Development, along with leadership masterclasses and Chartership Support. Graduate development programs and a Learning and Development Portal further support skill enhancement. The company also invests in education and skills development initiatives in the communities where it operates, helping to build a pipeline of future engineering leaders.
How does SMEC prioritize diversity and inclusion within its workforce?
Diversity and inclusion, alongside equality and belonging or DIEB, are foundational principles at SMEC. The company understands the significance of embracing a wide array of perspectives and experiences to enhance innovation and nurture creativity. As part of the SJ Group, with a global workforce of more than 16,000 people spread across over 40 countries, SMEC actively promotes these values through a range of policies and programs designed to provide equal opportunities for every employee, irrespective of their background or identity. Furthermore, SMEC fosters an environment where every individual feels a sense of belonging, ensuring that all team members, regardless of their differences, are valued and respected. This commitment extends into project teams, where diverse
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