Craig's PhD sees him testing and developing an innovative new technology for buildings which aims to reduce damage to floors during earthquakes. In practice, this means he has to design and build a two-thirds scale two-storey frame, working with construction contractors and academic and laboratory colleagues. He will then move on to testing and analysing the results. 'If the devices work as designed, after an earthquake people and businesses will be able to move on rapidly, largely unaffected, and they will probably be unaware of the technology that saved their lives and livelihoods – that's what I find interesting about it.'

Yet when he was finishing high school, Craig wasn't thinking about an Engineering degree – or any degree. 'I got into engineering by accident,' he explains. 'I was never really all that interested in school work... but I had always been interested in cars, motorcycles and anything vaguely mechanical. This was the influence of my Dad, with whom I have built numerous motorcycles, including my present bike.

'I found myself making a trip to Christchurch to take a tour around Air New Zealand with the intent of applying for an apprenticeship as an aeronautical mechanic. However, while in Christchurch I met up with my brother's friend who was studying Mechanical Engineering at UC and he gave me a quick tour around. So, on the back of that quick introduction, and still thinking that engineers built motorcycles, I applied.

'During my undergraduate degree I discovered what a professional engineer really does (not building motorcycles). I unearthed a passion for structural and seismic engineering and found a tenacity and intelligence I never knew I had.'

Craig credits UC's teaching for this discovery. 'This could never have occurred without the friendships forged by such an experience and the support of the talented academic staff in the Civil department.'

In the long term, Craig wants to work in a consulting firm on cutting edge projects, and eventually turn to teaching. 'I feel strongly that it is important for the advancement of this profession that experienced engineers return to academia to pass on their acquired knowledge,' he says.

Craig is enthusiastic about the wider benefits of UC's Engineering degree. 'During the course of your studies you gain not only a vast array of technical skills, but a new critical mindset.

'The most enjoyable thing for me has been meeting people from many different walks of life and perspectives, all united in a passion for engineering. The friends I have made at university I know will be friends for life.'

His advice to prospective students is to talk to as many people as possible and make an informed decision: 'I was lucky to have stumbled into this profession which I love by accident, but I understand it could've gone the other way,' he says. 'People are usually more than happy to talk about their profession, share their experiences and offer advice.'