Interview with Tosin Adekugbe: Growing up on the Silvertown Tunnel Project
Interview with Tosin Adekugbe: Growing up on the Silvertown Tunnel Project
Meet Tosin Adekugbe, a talented young engineer who started her career at just 16 as an apprentice on the Silvertown Tunnel, one of the UK’s most complex infrastructure projects. Now an Assistant Engineer, Tosin has played an integral role in this major project, which aims to reduce congestion in London, and improve connectivity in the east part of the city.
What has working on the Silvertown Tunnel meant to you?
Starting as an apprentice at 16, I’m now 21 and have and grown with the project for the past five years, I feel like I’ve truly grown up alongside the Silvertown Tunnel. It was my first real engineering project, and it’s been an incredible experience. Being part of something that will help improve traffic flow and reduce congestion for Londoners is incredibly rewarding. I’ve also had the chance to witness and be part of cutting-edge engineering technology, like the tunnel boring machine (TBM) we used, which weighs 1,800t – the largest of its kind ever used in the UK. Beyond the technical skills I’ve gained, I’ve also learned a lot about myself. This project has not only shaped my career but also my personal growth.
The Silvertown Tunnel has also provided opportunities for hundreds of young people to gain hands-on experience. I believe the skills and knowledge we’re gaining now will contribute to the future leaders of UK’s engineering industry.
Did you always want to become an engineer?
When I was at school, I initially wanted to be an architect, but I eventually realised engineering was a better fit for me. I wanted something more hands-on, where I could actively contribute to building things. I decided on engineering in Year 9 and stuck with it, even though I had other interests. None of my family are engineers, but I’ve always been drawn to the idea of creating something impactful. I wanted to start working and learning as quickly as possible, and the apprenticeship route was the perfect opportunity for that – it allowed me to earn while I learned.
What has been your role on the project?
I began as an apprentice engineer and worked my way up to Assistant Engineer. Over the course of the project, I’ve had a range of responsibilities, including ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, writing and checking quality documentation, tracking and reporting progress, and supervising key site activities like concrete pours. I’ve also mentored apprentice engineers and been involved in the cost coding of materials and resources.
What has been the most enjoyable part of working on this project?
There have been so many memorable moments, but one of my favourites has been having lunch with other engineers. With over 16,000 people working on the project, including locals and international teams, I’ve had the chance to learn from and build relationships with people from different backgrounds. I even picked up some Spanish from our JV partner, Ferrovial, since many of the team members are from Spain. The diverse environment has been one of the best parts of working on the project.
What have you learned from working on the project?
I’ve gained invaluable hands-on experience and developed my engineering skills significantly. Being part of the day-to-day activities has taught me a lot, and I’ve learned so much from the other engineers working on the project. Beyond the technical knowledge, I’ve learned a lot about myself – particularly how to balance work and study. It’s been challenging, but with the support of colleagues and mentors, I found a rhythm that worked for me. Understanding how to work in a way that suits your personal style is key to thriving in this field.
Why should other young people consider a career in engineering?
There’s always something new to learn, and as an engineer, you never get bored. There are endless opportunities to grow and tackle different challenges. Engineering gives you the chance to be involved in projects that have a real impact, like reducing congestion or contributing to the building of schools and hospitals. The engineering mindset is something that stays with you, and it’s an invaluable skill no matter what direction you take in life.
What are your career aspirations?
I aspire to continue growing and improving, both professionally and personally. I want to be part of more landmark projects and make a meaningful impact. Additionally, I’m passionate about mentoring and supporting apprentices, graduates, and students as they navigate their careers. I hope to help guide them through the process, just as I’ve been supported throughout my journey.
About the author
Tosin Adekugbe
Site Engineer
Tosin Adekugbe is a Site Engineer who joined BAM as an apprentice engineer and worked on Silvertown Tunnel as her first project. Due to the wealth of experience the project provided, she is well versed in resolving engineering challenges efficiently and continues to support the delivery of dynamic construction projects today.
