Scan Smarter. Build Better.

Project Overview

As CAD Coordinator and Assistant Design Engineer for ESL UK, Jake played a key role in delivering a major ancillary civils package for the £150m Northumberland Line upgrade. This nationally significant scheme reinstated passenger services between Ashington and Newcastle, requiring rigorous design coordination and full regulatory compliance.

Jake led a dedicated CAD team, managing the integration of complex survey data into the design process and producing high-precision CAD drawings for various civil infrastructure elements. These included signal foundations, location case platforms, pedestrian walkways, PB & OC equipment cabinets, and both URX and UTX level crossing designs.

An early challenge was the rapid adoption of Bentley MicroStation—previously unfamiliar software. Drawing on his strong CAD background and team support, Jake achieved proficiency within weeks and delivered critical outputs without delay. He was also instrumental in implementing the project’s BIM Execution Plan (BEP), ensuring all modelling standards, file naming conventions, and attribute data adhered to Network Rail protocols. This structured approach enhanced team collaboration, reduced drawing errors, and ensured seamless integration with other disciplines. Jake’s coordination and technical expertise were key in keeping the project on schedule and meeting the high standards expected on a Tier 1 rail infrastructure programme.

Project Overview

At SEP Rail Services, Jake led the delivery of a complex and high-profile 3D BIM model for Stratford Station in London. This work formed part of a broader passenger flow improvement programme, supporting more efficient station layouts and enhanced accessibility at one of the UK’s busiest transport hubs.

Jake managed a multidisciplinary team of site-based surveyors and office-based CAD specialists. He planned and supervised laser scanning operations, coordinated data collection, and maintained close communication with the field team to ensure accurate and efficient capture of all required site data. Back in the office, he took the lead on processing pointcloud data and oversaw the production of the BIM-ready 3D model.

His technical responsibilities included cleaning and registering scan data, extracting key features into CAD, and generating fully coordinated 3D outputs suitable for stakeholder engagement and further design development. The resulting model became a key reference for the client’s design and planning teams.

Thanks to Jake’s proactive project management and expertise in pointcloud processing, the project was delivered well ahead of schedule. The final outputs exceeded client expectations for both accuracy and usability, directly informing critical decisions about the station’s future layout and operations. The success of the Stratford Station project reflects Jake’s ability to blend site experience, CAD expertise, and collaborative leadership in a high-pressure, delivery-focused environment.

Project Overview

Over several years, Jake has contributed to a wide range of rail and civil engineering projects across the UK, building a strong reputation for delivering precise, compliant, and efficient CAD support. His experience spans both major infrastructure upgrades and smaller-scale works, supporting clients such as Volker Rail and SEP Rail Services.

His core responsibilities have included reviewing topographical survey data, identifying design and safety hazards, and producing detailed 2D and 3D CAD drawings for various ancillary civil assets. These include new location case (LOC) platforms with screw pile and mass concrete foundations, retaining walls, access steps, and walkways. Jake has also led CAD development for Semi-Automatic Train Warning Systems (SATWS), now deployed at rail sites across the UK.

He was closely involved in all phases of the SATWS schemes—from concept design through to GRIP stages 4–8—managing stakeholder feedback, incorporating field data, and ensuring compliance with Network Rail’s technical standards. His attention to detail and deep understanding of CAD compliance contributed to a high CAT 1 Design Review Notice (DRN) approval rate.

While supporting Volker Rail, Jake also stepped into a leadership role, managing a dedicated CAD team. He coordinated incoming data, briefed staff, maintained quality control, and acted as final checker on all deliverables. He also developed a project- specific BIM Execution Plan (BEP), standardising workflows and ensuring alignment with both client and Network Rail requirements.

These experiences highlight Jake’s versatility as a CAD professional—capable of leading teams, managing technical workflows, and producing high-quality drawings that support safe, efficient, and compliant infrastructure delivery.