Engineers to the Contract (EtC) are a crucial element in the successful delivery of many key infrastructure projects, especially those in the construction sector. They ensure contracts between clients and suppliers are managed fairly, impartially and efficiently. Finding the right person to fill this role, however, can be a source of frustration, particularly with ongoing skills shortages and the increasing demand and complexity of New Zealand’s construction sector infrastructure industry.

Recently, the Construction Sector Accord supported Engineering New Zealand to develop an independent EtC Panel for NZS 3910 (the standard form used for the majority of contracts in the construction and infrastructure sector).

Only 40 engineers from across New Zealand were chosen to sit on the panel. Three of them  – Steve Griffith, Martin Leak and Peter Bailey, are from Resolve Group.

Members of the new panel are qualified and trusted EtCs, with the expertise and independence needed for decision-making across a range of different projects. The new panel identifies industry professionals that have the requisite skills and experience. The panel’s work will help raise the bar for others in the sector through developing resources and guidance for new EtCs, procurers of EtCs and the wider construction industry.

Panel members were evaluated by a cross-industry Steering Group via a comprehensive review process, including a written application, interview and referee check. The steering group also developed a Code of Ethics to clarify and set expectations for the professional attitude and behaviours of panel members. All parties –contractors, principals, EtCs and others – will benefit from knowing who has been recognised as capable of fulfilling the duties of the role. Panel members have been appointed for a three-year term.

“We are very pleased to have three members of our staff selected; this will provide some internal resilience and training opportunities for us and for the panel,” says Steve Griffith (Service Line Leader – Delivery).

The panel’s work will help ‘raise the bar’ for others in the sector through developing resources and guidance for new EtCs, procurers of EtCs and the wider construction industry.