In this episode of Stirring the Pot, we’re having a kōrero with Professor Charles Clifton — legendary structural engineer, longtime HERA collaborator, and newly named Fellow of the Royal Society Te Apārangi.

From early experiments to revolutionising the way Aotearoa designs for seismic and fire resilience, Charles reflects on his incredible four-decade career in engineering. We explore the big turning points that shaped his journey, the often-overlooked capabilities of structural steel in extreme conditions, and the technical breakthroughs that changed how we build.

Charles also shares what continues to inspire him, what he hopes the next generation of engineers will take on, and the one thing he wants to be remembered for.

💡 Whether you're just starting your engineering journey or have been in the game for years, this episode offers insights on leaving a lasting legacy and designing for impact.

In this episode of Stirring the Pot we’re having a kōrero with Matt Ensor.

AI strategist and industry innovator — he unpacks what the rise of AI really means for the construction sector. From practical tools to mindset shifts, Matt shares his take on where we’re already seeing AI in action (even if we don’t realise it), the challenges we need to prepare for, and how to take the first step if your business hasn’t yet made the leap.

We also chat about the risks of being left behind, what the future of work could look like, and why getting comfortable with disruption might just be your biggest advantage.

💡 Whether you're an engineer, designer, or industry leader — this episode will give you food for thought and a few nudges to get ahead of the AI curve.

In this episode of Stirring the Pot, we’re having a kōrero with Maryam Hasanali.

Maryam is a structural research engineer at HERA and the brain behind the scenes driving our newly launched software tool, CompWebPen.

Join us as we dive into the thinking, coding, and collaboration that brought CompWebPen to life – a tool designed to simplify the analysis and design of composite steel–concrete beams with web penetrations. Maryam shares the real-world pain points this software solves for engineers, how it integrates with existing tools, and why it’s a game-changer for accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.

🎧 Whether you’re an engineer, designer, or just curious about the brains behind digital tools in construction – this kōrero offers valuable insights into building smarter with confidence.

🔗 Resources & links
– Learn more about CompWebPen: https://www.hera.org.nz/resource-compwebpen-launch/
– Explore our Composite Beam & Slab Tool: https://www.hera.org.nz/resource-composite-design-tool/
– Subscribe to our podcast: https://www.hera.org.nz/podcasts/

📬 Got questions or feedback? Reach us at info@hera.org.nz

In this episode of Stirring the Pot we’re having a kōrero with Lydia Frater.

Lydia's journey through her HERA internship has been nothing short of transformative. As a third-year engineering student at UC, she stepped into the world of structural fire engineering with minimal prior exposure—only to come out with hands-on experience, deep insights, and a newfound passion for the field. From modelling structural members to analysing fire protection methods, she shares how working on real-world projects has shaped her understanding of both fire engineering and sustainability in construction.

In this episode, Lydia reflects on the highs and challenges of her seven-week internship, including tackling complex modelling software, problem-solving independently, and collaborating with industry experts. She breaks down her work on the HERA Intumescent Optimisation Tool, concrete-filled steel tube research, and steel columns in fire-rated walls—highlighting the crucial link between cost efficiency, carbon savings, and fire safety.

If you're an engineering student or just curious about what it's like to dive into a research-based internship, this is a must-listen. Lydia’s experience shows how hands-on learning can open unexpected doors and shape the future of fire engineering in Aotearoa. 🔥

In this episode of Stirring the Pot we’re having a kōrero with Louise Jordaan.

Workplace safety is more than compliance, it’s about fostering a culture where employees feel responsible and empowered to speak up. In this episode, we discuss shifting from a “tick-box” approach to real conversations that drive change. Louise from Site Safe NZ shares insights on helping businesses see safety as an investment rather than an expense.

Open dialogue is key to addressing deeper workplace issues, from mental health to well-being. Younger workers are driving change by questioning unsafe practices and embracing technology to improve safety. Creating the right environment for these conversations is essential for lasting cultural shifts.

We also explore the representation of women in construction, tackling self-imposed limitations and tokenism in leadership. Our guest shares experiences with mentorship, confidence, and how allies can support real inclusion. Tune in for insights on building safer, stronger, and more inclusive workplaces.

Connect with Louise - Visit her LinkedIn

Connect to Site Safe NZ - https://www.sitesafe.org.nz/

Connect to NAWIC - https://www.nawic.org.nz/

Online webinar series - Health & safety in welding

This three part webinar series is perfect for safety team members, staff involved in implementing a safe work environment and anyone exposed to the welding and fabrication industry. It will show the major risks found in most welding and fabrication workplaces and the control measures needed to reduce their potential for harm.

Register here

International Women's Day series!

We’d love for you to follow our International Women's Day series throughout the week and share your views and comments as we celebrate achievements and address the ongoing challenges for women in construction.

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In this episode of Stirring the Pot we’re having a kōrero with Patrick Fenemor.

Ensuring safety in welding is crucial for protecting workers, minimising long-term health risks, and keeping industries running smoothly. In this episode, we explore the hidden dangers welders face, from toxic fumes and radiation to electrocution hazards and hearing damage.

Advancements in technology, such as voltage reduction devices (VRD) and improved ventilation systems, are helping to reduce these risks. However, with evolving regulations under the Health and Safety at Work Act, companies must stay proactive in implementing effective safety measures.

Digital tools are also transforming risk management, offering real-time hazard alerts and streamlined compliance tracking. By leveraging these innovations, businesses can create safer environments while maintaining productivity.

HERA continues to support the industry with research, training, and resources to navigate these challenges. Tune in to learn how the latest developments in technology and regulation are shaping the future of welding safety.

Connect with Patrick

Visit profile

Online webinar series - Health & safety in welding

This three part webinar series is perfect for safety team members, staff involved in implementing a safe work environment and anyone exposed to the welding and fabrication industry. It will show the major risks found in most welding and fabrication workplaces and the control measures needed to reduce their potential for harm.

Register here

In this episode of Stirring the Pot we’re having a kōrero with Mayank Shrivastava.

Fire protection is about more than just buildings—it is about saving lives, ensuring resilience, and keeping businesses running. In this episode, we explore the challenges of modern fire safety in steel and hybrid construction. With new materials and building techniques emerging, engineers must find ways to balance cost, sustainability, and safety while moving beyond basic compliance.

Sustainability is key in fire safety, with a growing focus on reducing material use and carbon footprints. Hybrid construction, particularly steel-timber systems, presents unique fire challenges, requiring tailored solutions. Intumescent coatings offer lightweight and visually appealing protection, but environmental factors must be considered when choosing the right strategy.

To simplify fire protection design, HERA has created HIT software, a digital tool that optimises fire safety solutions. By offering cost-effective and sustainable alternatives, HIT helps designers make informed decisions. Tune in to learn how technology is shaping the future of fireproofing!

Connect with Mayank - https://hera.org.nz/people/mayank-shrivastava/

Register for his Live webinar on Optimising fire protection in steel structures - https://learn.hera.org.nz/course/optimising-fire-protection-in-steel-structures

In this episode of Stirring the Pot we’re having a kōrero with Jeremy Sole.

Jeremy, Executive Officer of the Sustainable Steel Council (SSC), shares the council’s key initiatives for 2025. SSC is launching a Green Star-related audit scheme to help the steel industry meet sustainability standards and has finalized its roadmap to carbon zero by 2050. These efforts aim to support industry members in adapting to evolving regulations and expectations.

Jeremy discusses how the Green Star initiative is reshaping the sector, with initial concerns easing as businesses receive guidance and tools to comply. The program provides a structured path to certification, encouraging long-term sustainability improvements. The SSC also ensures the system is relevant to New Zealand’s needs.

The Decarbonisation Roadmap is another major focus, addressing global pressures to reduce emissions. Jeremy highlights the importance of balancing sustainability across materials rather than favoring one over another. Reflecting on his first year at SSC, he remains optimistic about the industry’s future.