In 2023, we carried out research into the instance and experience of neurodivergent engineers, and we learned so much about the broad challenges they face within the industry. However, we also heard about the unique strengths that come from thinking differently as an engineer or technician.
So, we’ve explored the big ‘stuff’, what about the smaller ‘stuff’?
Well, in recognition of Neurodiversity Celebration Week (17 - 23 March), we thought it would be a great opportunity to share some insights into daily life as a neurodivergent engineer, and to take us through that today is our man on the ground, Gavin Russell.
Gavin is an active member of our Neurodiversity Member Network and has kindly agreed to share a look into his day as a Building Performance Engineer – take it away, Gavin!
Morning
Most days start with the dog doing her best to get me to feed her as early as possible, and then a rush around if it’s an office day, or a more relaxed breakfast if it’s a home working day.
I’ve got the incredibly useful medication reminder feature setup on my iPhone for my ADHD meds. Particularly beneficial on the days I’m rushing to get out the door. I also, depending on where I’m working that day, have everything set up ready for me the evening before – be it a packed bag next to my keys, wallet and lunch if I’m out, or my desk ready, tidy and sorted for starting at home.
I’m always early – to everything. This symptom of my autism always makes sure I’m early to my desk, to the office, to site visits. I can’t deal with the anxiety of even maybe being one minute late. This always gives me plenty of time, though, on a typical workday to deal with emails, check my to-do list (Microsoft To-Do is a lifesaver), and get my plan sorted for the day.
If I have loads of time (usually the case!), I’ll get the daily puzzle games in. Squaredle, Queens, Connections, Octordle…
Getting into the groove each day can sometimes be difficult. Sometimes I’m raring to go, head down and like a machine for 8 hours. Sometimes it will take a few hours of really pushing myself to start properly. But when I get going, particularly on a task I enjoy, it’s a job I love.
I work as a Building Performance Engineer and have a huge love for numbers. So, when I can get my head into a model with lots of data, on an interesting building, it’s a genuine pleasure.
It’s especially satisfying to be able to present the data and results from my work in a clear and concise format. But I can be very self-critical at times and often fight with imposter syndrome. I’m always looking for new ways to get information to clients in a useful and straightforward format, and I can sometimes lose time here. But I think it always benefits myself and the business in the long term.
I worked as a mechanical consulting engineer prior to this role (and prior to both my ADHD and Autism diagnosis), and my current role suits me so much better. I really struggled with anxiety and preparation before big meetings and endless phone calls about issues on site. So, not having these happen as much now really helps me get into the day.
Lunch
Lunch is very similar every day. An autistic classic. I know what I like, I know what I’ll be eating. I truly love a good sandwich.
I’m a huge music fanatic, so will typically have music on all day. Noise cancelling headphones in the office, and just on the speakers at home. Podcasts quite often, also, but only if I’m working on drawings or models. I absolutely can’t listen to talking when I’m working with numbers or writing reports.
If I have been in the office, the journey home is usually an exhausted one. Prior to diagnosis, I thought I was just a bit tired. But I realise now it’s the interactions, the masking, the city noise, the office lights and everything else.
After work
If I am at home, the workday usually ends the very same way it began – the dog bothering me as if she hasn’t eaten for a week.
A big thank you to Gavin for sharing this insight into his day. Look out for Helen’s blog, which will be coming on Thursday. If you would like to learn more about our work on neurodiversity or our Neurodiversity Member Network, please email me at inclusion@theiet.org
