The Federation of Piling Specialists (FPS) is pleased to welcome Matthew Hurst as the new Vice Chair of the FPS Early Career Group (ECG). Matthew, a Senior Piling Contracts Engineer at VolkerGround Engineering (VGE), has been a committed member of the ECG since 2021, and is passionate about advancing the geotechnical engineering profession.

Matthew’s career began in 2017 at VGE, as an undergraduate pre-contract coordinator, and he has since risen through the ranks to manage a diverse portfolio of steel and concrete piling projects across the UK. Inspired by a LinkedIn post in 2021, Matthew joined the FPS ECG and has actively participated in events and site visits, including those at HS2 and Everton Football Stadium — an especially memorable experience for a lifelong Liverpool fan!

Reflecting on his FPS ECG journey, Matthew said: “The FPS ECG provides me with the opportunity to attend events and network with professionals who share a passion for geotechnical engineering. Thanks to the group, I’ve had exposure to alternative methodologies, new technologies, and key projects.”

Matthew encourages early-career professionals to get involved with the FPS ECG, as it offers valuable networking and CPD opportunities.