**** we are trying this new format with less edits, a little more AI (surely you've heard and seen it!), less formal but more authentic - let us know what you think in the comments **** In this conversation, Kelly Harrison, a director at Whitby Wood and a chartered structural engineer, shares her journey into the field of structural engineering, her focus on timber, and the challenges and innovations within the industry. She discusses her educational background, early career experiences, and the importance of collaboration in timber projects. Kelly emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to design, involving various stakeholders early in the process to ensure successful outcomes. She also highlights her current initiatives with Timber Development UK and her commitment to promoting sustainable building practices. In this conversation, Kelly Harrison discusses her experiences and insights related to acoustic research, her involvement with Timber Development UK, and the challenges and opportunities within the timber industry. The discussion also touches on the future of timber in tall buildings, the exploration of alternative low-carbon materials, and the unique community initiative Steel Warriors, which aims to tackle knife crime through outdoor gyms made from confiscated knives. **Chapters** 00:00 Introduction to Kelly Harrison and Her Journey 06:03 First Job and Exposure to Structural Engineering 11:55 Challenges in Timber Projects 17:47 Current Role and Industry Impact 24:06 Navigating Challenges in Timber Construction 38:00 Navigating Grant Challenges in Acoustic Research 42:54 The Role of Timber Development UK in the Industry 49:55 The Future of Timber in Tall Building Construction 55:01 Exploring Alternative Low-Carbon Materials 01:00:44 The Evolution of the UK Timber Industry 01:07:57 Steel Warriors: A Unique Community Initiative To register for the launche of Optoppen, follow this link. To connect with Kelly on Linkedin, follow this link. For more episodes of the High Point podcast, follow this link or this one for Youtube. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Following Atelier Crescendo or the High Point podcast -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To follow the High Point podcast on Instagram, follow this link. We try to share as many pictures as possible of the places we visit. To follow the Atelier Crescendo on Linkedin, follow this link. To follow the High Point podcast on Linkedin, follow this link. To follow the Atelier Crescendo and the High Point podcast on Twitter, follow this link. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- More tips and guidance on acoustic design of performing arts facilities - visit Atelier Crescendo's blog here.