Champion of the Week
Laura Holland, Owner and Managing Director – Ecotech Engineers
Hi, I’m Laura and I own Ecotech Engineers, a structural engineering consultancy based in Chesterfield. We support small to large housing developers with substructure-to-superstructure issues on any scale.
What has been the greatest achievement for your business over the last year?
We have been nominated for multiple business awards in recent months and won the Enterprising Women’s Special Recognition Award from East Midlands Chamber. We’ve also been able to grow the team, which has enabled us to expand our services and take on new clients.
What are the three words you would use to describe Chesterfield?
Welcoming, Collaborative, Beautiful.
Why do you love working in Chesterfield?
The reason I love owning a business in Chesterfield is that the nature of business here is very collaborative. All businesses support each other, and we’re located centrally within England, so we’re able to offer services to multiple housing developers across the UK.
How are you supporting young people in your business?
We’re starting a new initiative which supports schools, hoping to promote careers in our industry. By doing this, we’re also trying to remove some of the myths and stigma around women working in engineering.
What are your favourite places to visit in Chesterfield?
I love going into the heart of Chesterfield and visiting some of the great restaurants, such as Sorbo Lounge and Bottle & Thyme. There’s also The Savvy Baker, which has recently opened. Otherwise, I’m outside at Holmebrook Valley Park or Queens Park, spending time with my children and dog.
What support or advice has your business received recently and how has it benefited your business?
We are part of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group, which is part of Chesterfield Champions. We meet up regularly throughout the year, and this has become a brilliant place to collaborate, share knowledge and give updates on the sector
Which upcoming development in Chesterfield do you believe will have the greatest impact on the town?
The developments which I believe will have the most impact on Chesterfield are the upcoming works at the train station and the marketplace. I believe this is going to frame the town and provide a warm welcome to anyone visiting or already living within the centre. I think the work will help to bring more money into the town centre and drive the continued upgrades in our retail areas.
What is your vision for Chesterfield and North Derbyshire by 2030, and how can this be achieved?
By 2030, I would love to see Chesterfield living its best life. I think we’re on the right track with the investments and developments that are currently being proposed and undertaken. Hopefully, this will be a place where retail units are full, and everyone’s in the bars eating and drinking. However, I’d still like to see us keeping a link to the historical background that we have.
