Employee Spotlight: Andrew Williamson, P.Eng.

22 Apr Employee Spotlight: Andrew Williamson, P.Eng.

At BKL, we believe great acoustics begin with great people. That’s why we’re thrilled to spotlight one of our senior team members, Andrew Williamson. With over 20 years of experience in acoustical consulting, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge, a passion for mentorship, and a collaborative spirit that aligns perfectly with BKL’s commitment to delivering clear, client-focused solutions.

We sat down with Andrew to learn more about his background, his day-to-day at BKL, and his perspective on the future of acoustics.

Q: What is your role within BKL?

As a Senior Acoustical Engineer at BKL, I take on a diverse range of responsibilities. I lead building acoustics projects, mentor junior staff, and support our marketing team. A key aspect of my role is maintaining strong relationships with our clients, ensuring we fully understand their needs so we can deliver tailored, high-quality acoustical solutions.

Q: What inspired you to become an acoustical engineer?

After earning my degree in mechanical engineering, I explored several career paths – including the possibility of returning to school to study architecture. When I discovered acoustical engineering, I realized it was the perfect intersection of my passions for engineering and architecture. It’s a field that continually challenges me, offering opportunities to work across different industries and collaborate with professionals from diverse disciplines. Fun fact: Mark Bliss, BKL’s President, and I started our careers together working out of the basement of a small firm’s home office – proof that humble beginnings can lead to great things!

Q: What skills do you use daily?

My daily work draws on a blend of technical expertise and soft skills. On the technical side, I rely heavily on acoustical modelling, data analysis, and my years of professional experience. Equally important are project management, client communication, and close collaboration with colleagues and design teams. At its core, my role is all about problem-solving – each project brings unique challenges that require creative and practical solutions.

Q: What has been the most exciting project you’ve worked on?

One of the most rewarding projects I’ve worked on was the Patient Care Centre at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria. Healthcare facility projects are incredibly complex, requiring meticulous attention to detail and close coordination with other disciplines throughout design and construction. Seeing the completed facility – and knowing we achieved such a high level of acoustical performance – was incredibly fulfilling. It’s especially rewarding to know the space will serve the community for years to come.

Q: How do you stay current with advancements in acoustical engineering?

Continuous learning is essential in acoustics. At BKL, we stay current through in-house technical presentations, industry conferences, and knowledge-sharing sessions. I also make a point of reading industry publications, attending conferences, and collaborating with colleagues to ensure we stay ahead of evolving standards, research, and technology. Just recently, I attended BUILDEX in Vancouver and sat in on some fascinating presentations on Cross Laminated Timber construction.

Q: How do you ensure that your designs meet engineering standards and regulations?

We follow a rigorous quality management process that aligns with – and often exceeds – the standards set by Engineers and Geoscientists BC. Our team actively monitors evolving regulations and best practices, ensuring compliance on every project. Regular peer reviews, collaborative problem-solving, and ongoing professional development all contribute to maintaining high-quality, regulation-compliant designs.

Q: Is there such a thing as a “typical” day in your job?

One of the things I love about acoustical consulting is that no two days are ever the same. Some days I’m in the office analyzing data, running acoustical models, or collaborating with colleagues. Other days, I’m on-site conducting measurements, meeting with clients, or reviewing construction progress. The variety keeps the work exciting and rewarding.

Q: Where do you see the future of acoustics heading?

The importance of acoustics in both natural and built environments is steadily gaining recognition, and I see this trend continuing. I expect to see more legislation mandating acoustical standards across sectors, from residential construction to urban planning. Advances in materials, digital modelling, and AI-driven analysis will also drive innovation, allowing for more efficient, creative, and cost-effective solutions. Ultimately, I believe acoustics will play an increasingly important role in creating healthier, more comfortable, and more sustainable environments. The future of acoustics is bright!

More About Andrew

Andrew holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from the University of Victoria and is a registered Professional Engineer with Engineers and Geoscientists BC. Before joining BKL in 2023, he spent two decades working as an acoustical consultant across sectors including healthcare, education, industrial, commercial, and residential.

His project portfolio spans notable BC infrastructure and community spaces such as Royal Columbian Hospital Redevelopment, Roberts Bank Terminal 2, UBC Student Recreation Centre, Sechelt Sand and Gravel Mine, and many more.

In addition to consulting, Andrew has presented at public meetings and government-sponsored working groups, and has acted as an expert witness in BC Supreme Court and environmental hearings – communicating complex technical data in ways that resonate with both experts and the general public.

We’re proud to have Andrew on the team and excited to see the impact he’ll continue to make. His dedication to client service, technical excellence, and mentoring the next generation of acoustical engineers embodies what we are all about.