The University of Waikato is strengthening its expertise in sustainable wood engineering and low-carbon construction, bringing together education, research and industry to help shape the future of New Zealand's construction sector.
The appointment of Dr Gary Raftery as WIDE Trust Associate Professor in the School of Engineering, with funding from the Wood Industry Development and Education (WIDE) Trust, marks a significant step in building this capability.
Dr Gary Raftery
Dr Raftery brings extensive experience in civil engineering teaching and research leadership. He will lead the University’s work in advanced wood engineering and low-carbon construction, strengthening opportunities for students, research and industry collaboration.
In his new role, Dr Raftery will drive initiatives that harness the potential of wood and engineered timber for renewable, high-performance construction that addresses the needs of the construction sector.
Engineered timber features in The Pā, which is the multi-award-winning facility at the heart of the University's Hamilton campus, bringing together a wharenui, student hub and spaces for teaching, events and community connection.
Dr Raftery says the position is an opportunity to help shape the future of wood engineering through education, partnerships and research.
"This role brings together the things that matter most to me, preparing the next generation of engineers, exploring what wood can achieve as a building material and working with industry to put research into practice.
"With support from the WIDE Trust, we have an opportunity to build the expertise New Zealand needs to make greater use of timber in sustainable, high-performance buildings."
The University's partnership with the WIDE Trust will help develop specialist expertise and equip graduates with the skills needed to contribute to an evolving construction sector. A key priority is to prepare students with the knowledge to work confidently with sustainable wood materials, use emerging technologies, and apply modern construction methods.
Research partnerships will also connect this expertise with real-world industry challenges, creating opportunities to advance the design, engineering and use of timber throughout the life of a building.
Dr Raftery will lead work in advanced wood engineering and low-carbon construction
The University's location in the central North Island, with its strong forestry, manufacturing, engineering and construction sectors, provides a valuable foundation for collaboration and innovation.
Dr Raftery’s appointment also reinforces the University's commitment to research-led education that responds to New Zealand's economic, environmental and social priorities.
Dean of Engineering Mike Duke (opens in a new tab) says the appointment will help the University build specialist capability in an area of increasing importance to New Zealand's construction sector.
"Gary's appointment is an important step in developing our expertise in sustainable wood engineering and low-carbon construction. It will help us connect teaching and research with industry needs, preparing graduates who can contribute to the sector's future.
"The support of the WIDE Trust enables us to build this capability and deepen collaboration across forestry, manufacturing and construction."
The WIDE Trust is a charitable organisation dedicated to supporting education and development in New Zealand’s forestry and wood industries. Through grants and scholarships to students and institutions, the Trust helps build the skills, knowledge and expertise needed to support the sectors’ future.
