At The LK Group, we encourage our engineers to share their stories, so today we’re putting the spotlight on Michaela Sheppard, our Geo-Environmental Engineer based in our Swindon office.
From investigating hazardous gases to contaminated soils, no two days are ever the same. Six months into her role, she’s already making waves, leading high-profile projects, and even getting up close with tigers.
Michaela’s job is a fascinating blend of technical expertise, problem-solving, and fieldwork. Whether she’s logging soil and rock samples, conducting geotechnical testing, or liaising with clients, her work ensures that the land is safe and suitable for development.
Her day-to-day responsibilities are a mix of hands-on site work and behind-the-scenes coordination. She tackles everything from trial pitting and gas monitoring to organising sub-contractors and preparing health and safety documents. One moment she’s coordinating window sampling and the next, she’s knee-deep in contamination assessments. There’s never a dull moment!
When asked about her proudest projects, one in particular seems to stand out.
“No site is the same, different challenges always arise which keeps the job interesting. A project I worked on recently at a famous UK theme park, I navigated complex site conditions, all while sneaking a glimpse of the theme parks famous tigers!”
Michaela emphasises that being a great Geo-Environmental Engineer isn’t just about technical knowledge—it’s about adaptability. Organisation, teamwork, leadership, and quick thinking are key to navigating the unexpected challenges that arise on-site.
Why LK Group?
With projects spanning all over the UK, Michaela is driven by exploring new places and experiencing different working environments.
The LK Group team culture is another highlight. Despite being based in the company’s southern office, Michaela feels like part of a close-knit unit.
“Even though I’m miles apart, I won’t hesitate to contact the northerners for a chat or help. It doesn’t feel like we’re that far apart,” she shares. (Although she wouldn’t mind a few more trips to Manchester!)
Looking Ahead
With just six months under her belt, Michaela’s journey at The LK Group is only just beginning. From tackling complex environmental challenges to working on high-stakes projects, she’s proving that the best engineering stories aren’t just about what’s built above ground—but about the unseen foundations.
We’re happy to have you on board Michaela, we can’t wait to see what else you can achieve in your next six months!
