Simon Couling CEng MIMechE

Simon Couling CEng MIMechE is a Senior Design Coordinator at Murphy.

What do you do?

I currently work within the Natural Resources Department at Murphy, where I'm responsible for delivering the design management of a gas compressor replacement project at a critical UK infrastructure site. I oversee multidisciplinary engineering teams, ensuring compliance with client requirements and industry standards. During the day-to-day, I am responsible for managing design progress, client engagement and engineering coordination.

What inspired you to be an engineer?

From as far as I can remember, I’ve always had an interest in how things were made, inspired by TV shows like How it’s Made, MythBusters and many more. Alongside this, I’ve always been curious and very hands on. This led to me quickly learn how to take “things” apart (which was the easy bit!) before moving into designing and building my own projects. Eventually this curiosity would then go onto influence my hobbies, which I still hold onto today. The move to then go on to pursue an engineering career felt natural.

Why did you become a Chartered Engineer with IMechE?

I completed a MEng in Mechanical Engineering at university and have been an active member of IMechE since those university days.

I’ve competed in various IMechE challenges, such as the Design Challenge, attended various site tours and technical talks, and volunteered with the local IMechE Greater Manchester Young Members Panel, holding various roles over the years, such as Events Coordinator and Vice-Chair to name a few.

Becoming Chartered with IMechE made sense given the expanse of engineering disciplines and sub-disciplines supported by the Institution. There's always more to learn, both within my own field and in adjacent ones, so I wanted to contribute to this community while continuing to benefit from the support and resources available to its members.

How has being a Chartered Engineer helped your career?

Becoming Chartered has been a significant career milestone, and in my current field this has enabled me to demonstrate competence and a commitment to the profession, qualities that are well regarded by employers.

I've recently become a mentor to graduate engineers in my company, supporting them through the MPDS scheme. I also continue to support the local IMechE Young Members Panel, and earlier this year was a guest speaker on the "Pathways to Chartership" webinar.

What are your top member benefits?

Access to local events within your region is a great way to meet like-minded engineers, network and support your CPD, all at the same time!

In my current role, I use the Library when looking for resources and have started using the Career Developer tool, which has helped me to make the tracking of my CPD activities easier.

What are your career aspirations?

I have a strong interest in the energy sector and sustainable engineering and aspire to become an industry leader in these areas, contributing meaningfully to the energy transition.

There is always more to learn, and I am keen to continue learning as the industry develops. I do find the mentorship side rewarding and intend to continue supporting the next generation of engineers.