Aman Khandelwal

We asked Aman…

Complete this phrase: I’m a civil engineer, but I’m also...

A chef! Cooking is my favourite stress buster.

I'm also a mentor, helping others find their path in engineering.

I also see myself as a communicator, someone who believes in making complex ideas simple and accessible for everyone.

Name one civil or infrastructure engineering myth you’d like to bust.

Civil engineering isn’t just about concrete and bridges. It’s about people, communities, and shaping a better future.

How does your role contribute to addressing climate change?

By designing flood resilience and sustainable drainage solutions, I help communities adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as heavier rainfall and rising flood risk.

How does your role contribute to making the industry more diverse and inclusive?

I volunteer with the ICE and take part in mentoring programmes to help young people from different backgrounds feel welcomed into engineering.

I'm also developing dashboards and frameworks that measure the socio-economic impact of flooding. 

My goal is to ensure we shape a future where global flood risk management evolves without inequalities. Where communities, regardless of background or location, are equally protected and supported.

What role does digital technology play in your job?

I use hydraulic modelling software and digital tools every day to test designs, predict risks, and make faster, better decisions for sustainable water management.

What is motivating you to become professionally qualified? 

I want to become a Chartered Engineer because it represents the highest standard of professionalism in our industry.

For me, it’s not just a title, it’s proof that I can take responsibility for solutions that protect people, communities, and the environment.

What does being professionally qualified with the ICE mean for your career?

Becoming professionally qualified will give me the chance to lead bigger projects, influence decisions at a higher level, and show clients and communities that they can trust the solutions I help deliver.

It will also open doors for me to mentor and inspire more young engineers.

How is the ICE and your employer supporting you to become professionally qualified? 

The ICE has provided me with a clear framework through IPD (initial professional development), and regular guidance from reviewers and mentors.

My employer, Tetra Tech, supports me with training, technical experience, and time to focus on professional development.

Together, they have made the path toward chartership structured and achievable.

How has being a member helped your career? 

Being a member of the ICE has given me access to mentoring, networks, and opportunities that I would never have found on my own.

Through the ICE, I’ve developed as a leader, joined programmes like the President’s Future Leaders, and contributed to discussions about the future of civil engineering.

It’s helped me grow in confidence, sharpen my skills, and feel part of a global community working to make a positive difference.

What’s the biggest difference you’ve noticed from studying to working in engineering?

The biggest difference is responsibility.

At university, most of my work was about learning theories and solving set problems.

In my job, the solutions I help design directly affect people’s lives, homes, and the environment.

That makes the work exciting but also means I have to think carefully about the long-term impact.

Another big change is teamwork. In industry, you work with clients, communities, and colleagues from many different backgrounds, which makes every project a shared journey.

Anything else? i.e. personal causes, hobbies

Outside of engineering, I love cooking. Being a chef in my own kitchen is my favourite way to relax. I've been a professional chef as well.

I also enjoy exploring new places and cultures through food and travel.