IStructE North East Region Talk: Practical AI for Structural Engineers

Synopsis:
This talk shows structural engineers how to use AI to accelerate practice without sacrificing control. We will cover practical workflows: drafting and refining reports, extracting decisions and actions from meeting transcripts, generating dependable code scaffolds for VBA or Python, and asking for clause-signposted steps that you will always verify against Eurocodes and the UK National Annex. You will see a live Socratic drill for idea testing, plus a concise legal, IP, and privacy overview for UK use, and a six-step fact-checking method for numbers and references.

What this talk is not:
It is not a technical tutorial on how to design buildings with AI; it is not a substitute for professional judgement, codes, or QA; it is not a survey of Copilot or other tools. It is a clear, hands-on guide to using ChatGPT to work faster and write better, while keeping human oversight and an auditable trail.

About the Speaker:
Andrew Snowball is a Chartered Civil Engineer with the Institution of Civil Engineers and an Engineering Technician with the Institution of Structural Engineers. With over 19 years of experience across civil, structural, and rail engineering, he leads the Durham office of Align Property Partners, managing a broad portfolio of projects across residential, commercial, and public sectors.He is the Regional Chair for the IStructE North East Region, Vice Chair of its EDI Working Group, a member of the BIM Panel, and has contributed to the IPD Regulations for Technician and Incorporated membership. Recognised as the first Technician Member to hold a Regional Chair role, Andrew is passionate about mentoring, inclusion, and professional growth. He also serves as a Supervising Civil Engineer, Professional Reviewer, and End-Point Assessment Assessor for the ICE, supporting the development of engineers at every stage of their careers.Alongside his engineering leadership, Andrew is an experienced Board Advisor and Non-Executive Director, helping organisations navigate strategy, governance, and growth. He has recently been appointed as a Trustee for Changing Futures North East, supporting initiatives that improve opportunities for young people and families across the region.

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