Steve Carmody has held various roles within CIHT, on the continuing professional development (CPD), audit, member and related boards and committees. Now, he finds himself preparing for the role of vice president.

Alongside his growing relationship with CIHT, Carmody is managing director of Carmody Infrastructure Ltd, a civil engineering consultancy that delivers a wide range of infrastructure services. He has almost 30 years of experience in infrastructure, and has supported private businesses, local authorities and public sector bodies with senior-level infrastructure leadership when schemes are delayed, under pressure or require stronger direction to move forward.

What has been your history with CIHT through the years?

My relationship with CIHT has developed through a long-standing commitment to the highways and transportation profession, and a belief in the value of professional institutions in supporting standards, learning and collaboration. CIHT provides an important forum for bringing people together across the sector, sharing knowledge and influencing the future of transport infrastructure.

I have been involved with CIHT since around 2008, including serving as a regional council member for Yorkshire and Humber for more than 15 years. I was regional chair for Yorkshire and Humber in 2015, before becoming a National Council representative in 2016, a role I continue to hold.

I supported the CIHT Audit Committee for three years and currently chair the Membership and Member Services Strategy Board. Through this role, I also serve as a member of the Board of Trustees.

This long-term commitment reflects my desire to support the institution, help shape positive change across the industry, and contribute to the highways and transportation sector more widely.

What have been your greatest achievements since being involved with CIHT?

One of my greatest achievements has been to contribute consistently to CIHT over many years, and to be part of a strong professional community within both the institution and the wider industry. I value the chance to help connect people, support members, and contribute to discussions that shape the future of highways and transportation.

What are the main benefits of CIHT and why should all transport professionals be involved in the institution?

CIHT offers members a trusted professional community, access to knowledge and best practice, opportunities for development and a collective voice on the issues that matter to the sector. Transport professionals should be involved because the challenges we face, such as decarbonisation, safety, resilience, skills and funding, require collaboration across disciplines and organisations. CIHT helps foster those conversations and ensures the profession continues to evolve.

How has CIHT helped with your career progression?

Professional institutions such as CIHT play a vital role in supporting career progression by promoting standards, learning and professional recognition. CIHT provides access to networks, insight and thought leadership that help members broaden their perspective beyond their own organisation. That wider perspective is invaluable for anyone seeking to lead effectively in the highways and transportation sector.

What are your aims as vice president of CIHT?

To support CIHT’s continued influence and visibility, champion the needs of members and help ensure the institution remains relevant to the whole profession. I would particularly like to focus on professionalism in our sector, linked to early-career support, skills development, sustainability and stronger engagement across consultants, contractors, clients and educators.

Professionalism is fundamental to the credibility of highways and transportation; it is one of the foundations on which public confidence is built. My request to members is to champion professionalism in everything we do, to uphold standards, support one another, mentor those entering the profession, challenge poor practice constructively, and demonstrate every day why our work deserves public trust and respect.