Habitat co-founder receives top engineering title

Habitat co-founder receives top engineering title

The civil engineer who helped found the charitable organisation Habitat for Humanity in New Zealand has been recognised as a Distinguished Fellow of the Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ). Dr Tony Lanigan was recognised for his eminent contribution to the application of engineering and technology in the community along with his substantial contribution to advancing technological education. Just 68 people have ever received such an honour in New Zealand.

As co-founder of Habitat in New Zealand in 1992, Tony put his practical engineering knowledge to use by helping fulfil the housing needs of disadvantaged people. His other major contribution has been in education. In 2000, he played a significant part in the then Auckland Institute of Technology gaining university status to become the Auckland University of Technology. Tony was the institute’s inaugural Chancellor.

Tony is a former General Manager of Fletcher Construction. His interest in applying technology to meet business needs saw him carry out important research into the prediction of thermal stress conditions in box girder bridges. This was in response to major post-construction problems with Auckland’s Newmarket viaduct and resulted in a design approach for accommodating solar-induced thermal loads on structures.

“The Fellows’ and Achievers’ Dinner is a very special occasion for IPENZ as we honour and celebrate the outstanding individuals who have made a significant contribution to the advancement of the engineering profession. It is an opportunity to highlight the great work our engineers do and the positive benefits brought to New Zealand,” said IPENZ Chief Executive, Susan Freeman-Greene.

Tony was presented with his Distinguished Fellowship at the IPENZ Awards Dinner held at The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington, on Friday 13 March 2015.

ENDS

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