BAM Experience: My first visit to the British Antarctic Survey
By Lara Lightfoot
BAM Experience: My first visit to the British Antarctic Survey
Icebergs... penguins... and contributing towards developing renewable technologies to modernise the UK's national polar research institute. These are all words I can use to describe my recent expedition, working for BAM in Antarctica.
This opportunity is one of many examples of why I think BAM is such great place to work for someone like me.
The work BAM are doing as part of the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP) will modernise the infrastructure at Rothera that supports pioneering science. Together with the commissioning of the RRS Sir David Attenborough, this modernisation programme represents the largest UK Government investment in polar science infrastructure since the 1980s.
It is a privilege to be part of the renewables project developing and implementing innovative and sustainable technology to support scientists researching the global effects of climate change, and the search for bio-renewable energy. Let me tell you about my very first visit to Antarctica:
My pre-deployment training marked the beginning of an unforgettable journey. I had to undergo physical and mental training to prepare me for life in Antarctica, before embarking on a 48-hour travel marathon from Heathrow to São Paulo, then Santiago, and finally Punta Arenas. After an overnight stay and an evening of tapas (yum) with the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) team, we boarded the 5.5-hour flight to Rothera. I even had to wear an immersion suit to prepare for landing!
The moment I stepped off the plane, I was overwhelmed with joy and burst into tears as I stepped onto the icy continent I had long dreamed of visiting. It was a bright blue sky and I could see nothing but snow-capped peaks and icebergs for miles.
The first few days were focussed on safety briefings, biosecurity and station communications, all vital to the safety and security of our staff and the work we are undertaking. There's 24-hour sunlight at this time of year so after my evening meal I decided to go on a walk around The Point, a beautiful area where we can go for walks, with a friend from the project. The nature on display here was so beautiful, we marvelled at the penguins, icebergs and stunning views.
Soon enough I had finished my induction and training and could get stuck into my work at BAS. Over the next few days I worked with the BAM logistics team surveying the containers on station to find materials for the various teams working on projects around the station. During this time I was lucky enough to see the RRS Sir David Attenborough arrive and dock in the station and I also got to do a weather balloon launch at the station, which is co-ordinated with other stations across the globe releasing at the same time to ensure accurate weather forecasts. Needless to say my work was varied whilst in Antarctica.
My time in Antarctica also included Christmas & New Year, and it was a time I don't think I'll ever forget. On Christmas morning, I woke up to homemade cookies and chocolate treats left by Santa at my door. A delicious dinner was followed by the annual Christmas football match between BAS, BAM & GAB (G&A Barnie)… GAB won.
But I think my most treasured memory is from my birthday. Whilst working on the wharf, a pod of killer whales swam right past me and I even got to take a photograph. It was incredible!
The time to return back to the UK came too soon. I was sad to say goodbye (for now) but on the plus side I did get to sit at the front of the plane for the flight home, the views were truly epic.
Back on home soil, I’m now continuing my work on the renewables project, working to design and install renewable energy infrastructure to decarbonise Rothera Station in Antarctica. I’ll be heading out there again for two full seasons at the end of next year and I cannot wait, but there’s so much important work to be done in the meantime.
Working for BAM can be so varied as my experience can attest to and I am grateful for the opportunity to work in such a challenging, but incredible environment.
Bring on the next expedition!
About the author
Lara Lightfoot
Sub Agent
Lara joined BAM in June 2022 as a Section Engineer, working on the Transpennine Route Upgrade before joining the British Antarctic Survey/Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Framework in September 2023 as a Sub Agent.
Lara is passionate about making the construction industry more sustainable, with a belief that sustainability is not just an obligation but key to the future of engineering. She's an enthusiastic participant in STEM, mentoring, and social mobility activities, encouraging the next generation, particularly girls, to explore opportunities in construction, and to make sure the industry is positively transformed by the perspectives and skills women bring to the table.
Outside of work, Lara enjoys making pottery, hiking in the Peak District with her two dogs, and travelling.
