Hi I’m David Shodeke and I was born in London. At the age of 10 I moved to Liverpool, 9 years later I decided Manchester is the place where I will pursue my dream of becoming an Engineer. I studied Civil Engineering at The University of Salford and graduated in 2015, joining Civic Engineers in August of the same year. Early on in my career I have been involved in a range of projects from the renovation and extension of an iconic Manchester building, to the design and construction of three blocks of student accommodation in Chester. The variety and vibrancy of the work at Civic is fuelled by the passion and expertise of the staff and is the defining reason that I joined the Practice. I wanted to be a part of the exciting growth within Civic.

I have always been keen to help others, which is part of the reason why I became an Engineer – I can positively influence people’s lives through my design. As well as the work I do at Civic Engineers, I am also a member of the IStructE Young Members Committee, a member of Engineers for Overseas Development (EfOD) and take part in regular charity events. All of this helps me to achieve my ultimate personal goal of positively influencing many people’s lives.

When I’m not working I enjoy playing football, cycling and travelling the world. Regardless of what I’m doing I will always be listening to music. My big black headphones are a signature item for me and I use them in the studio when I need to focus. I listen to all types of music, from rock and indie to jazz and the blues and also hip hop and r’n’b.

‘Everything in the universe has a rhythm, everything dances.’ – Maya Angelou