A registered vertical transportation (VT) design practitioner, Brendan has been delivering VT systems including passenger and goods lifts, escalators and moving walkways for most of his career.
He’s worked on a wide range of projects within multiple sectors such as defence, education, transport, offices, residential, retail, civic and health and has nurtured a passion for complex vertical transportation designs.
Promoting a practical approach for new projects and modernisation of existing buildings alike, Brendan’s intelligent VT designs consider lift traffic analysis, system interfacing and integration to deliver value for his clients.
When asked about his career inspiration, he talks about respect, hard work and luck in a niche industry. He also reflects on the thrill of delivering VT for the world famous Sydney Opera House, designing visually appealing systems that effortlessly integrate with the building’s iconic architecture while enhancing accessibility for all.
What inspired you to become an engineer?
During my early days in the lift industry, I recognised that vertical transportation consultants were well respected, and it seemed a decent career so I made plans to gather relevant technical, sales and presentation skills for the role. Then I was just fortunate to be offered a role at NDY with Ian Hanna.
Why vertical transportation?
I like the people in the industry, and I enjoy working in a niche part of the building industry (and as a lift specialist, it’s all I really know).
What’s your career highlight project?
I have worked on many different projects at the Sydney Opera House. My highlight would be providing centralised vertical transportation consultant services across multiple projects improving accessibility to various areas within the Opera House including the Concert Hall, Dame Joan Sutherland Opera Theatre and the Southern and Northern Foyers.
What innovative new approaches are you seeing when it comes to vertical transportation?
The adoption of smartphone apps to call lifts with a mere tap is just the tip of the iceberg. These apps are revolutionising the user experience, offering personalised and efficient travel within buildings.
Technologies which allow buildings to be taller such as lightweight suspension medium. By reducing the weight and increasing the strength of these essential components, buildings can now soar higher than ever before without compromising stability.
Electromagnetic technology is developing. It’s a burgeoning field that’s paving the way for entirely new modes of vertical travel, harnessing the power of magnetism to create smooth, energy-efficient systems that may become a reality within our lifetime.
