Juliette Parisi

What made you want to pursue a career in engineering? 

I’ve always been attracted by the sea ever since I was very young. I grew up on the west coast of France and spent all my holidays in the ocean. I enjoyed the applied nature of physics at school, so a career in marine engineering was perfect. I did the equivalent of a Masters in Marine Engineering in France, before joining HR Wallingford in 2012 as a Graduate Engineer.

What’s your day to day like?

As a Principal Engineer my job involves reviewing hydrodynamic numerical modelling and managing complex marine projects, including marine renewables, ports and coastal developments. The work ranges from the technical, including numerical modelling, to client liaison and project management. I work across all the specialities we offer at HR Wallingford. It’s rare that any two projects are the same, so it never gets boring. The diversity of the projects at HR Wallingford is one of the things that makes this place so special.

Any specific projects you are really excited by?

The Morlais Demonstration Zone, which we worked on in in 2020 and 2021, is a tidal energy project off the coast of Anglesey. We were brought in to model quite a large scheme with more than 200 turbines, some of them on the seabed and some of them just under the surface on floating devices. There were several advanced aspects to the project, so it’s been really interesting and challenging.

What do clients need to know about us?

Our team of experts can answer any water related challenge our clients bring, including things they may not have considered. Everyone is very passionate and we want to help.

What’s it like working here?

The cosmopolitan vibe is one of the things I like – when I arrived I never felt as though I was different because there were so many other nationalities. I made friends very quickly. There is lots to do, for example, we have a summer volleyball tournament. The job is always interesting: you can walk over to the Froude Modelling Hall, or the Ship Simulator, there’s always something fascinating happening. I’m also part of HR Wallingford’s Women’s Network, and our Staff Council. I’m really passionate about promoting the role of women in engineering, and raising awareness of the career opportunities there are. It’s amazing to be able to have that impact, and see change happening.  I’m really looking forward to being back at Howbery Park once the pandemic is over. It’s such a great place to work, and I’ve missed being able to come in, catch up with colleagues, have lunch on the Manor House terrace, play volleyball and basketball together and go to the pub after work of course!

Out of work, what do you enjoy doing?

During lockdown I often baked: I make a very good triple chocolate cheesecake and triple chocolate brownie (I love chocolate!).  I also enjoy yoga, I play piano and I mostly play a lot of volleyball, I am the captain of the Oxford Eagles Volleyball team.