Andrea Wilson was an exemplary Atkins employee, she joined Atkins on the 3rd November 2003 and had a hardworking ethos demonstrating real drive and commitment in everything she did. Her tenacious attitude was rewarded in 2015 when she successfully achieved Chartered Status of CIWEM. Andrea was embedded with Severn Trent Water's (STW) R&D team, as part of the Strategic Partnership within STW, Atkins and Cranfield.
Andrea was sadly diagnosed with a brain tumour over Christmas 2015 and, having endured her illness with great courage and continued concern for others, Andrea passed away on 2nd September 2016 at the age of 35.
Andrea was an inspiration for a lot of us, both within and outside of working hours. At work she was enthusiastic and an example of discipline and commitment to delivery. She project managed the Packington Pilot trial for STW, looking at options for achieving low phosphorous consents. Andrea was the first to volunteer for anything needed, and became the STW innovation drone pilot working on using drones for asset inspections. Andrea also made a priority of supporting others and found the time to act as a mentor for research students.
Outside of work, Andrea seized every day, enjoying quality time with her beloved husband, family and friends. Her positive outlook on life and warmth was infectious to all around her, bringing joy even at difficult times. Her emotional strength and positivity remain inspirational to those who knew her, as she continues to be a role model to many of us.
It is as a memory of the great inspiration that Andrea was for us, that this MSc memorial bursary is created in collaboration between Atkins and Cranfield University, with Severn Trent Water and Scottish Water sponsoring the individual thesis component.
