Hawkins - Forensic Investigators

BEng (Hons)

Materials Science and Engineering - University of Surrey

PhD

Intralaminar Cracking of Fibre Reinforced Composites University of Surrey

As part of his first degree Andrew worked for Alusuisse, Switzerland analysing production methods of lithographic alloys and for the Defence Evaluation And Research Agency on new materials for aerospace applications. His career in failure investigation began while carrying out his PhD, which was an investigation to determine the failure characteristics of fibre reinforced composite materials using fracture mechanics and surface analytical techniques, which was sponsored by BAE Systems.

After completing his PhD Andrew carried out a post-graduate research project for Thames Water on the failure modes of cast iron trunk mains systems.

In 2001 Andrew joined Hawkins specialising in the investigation of materials failures, escapes of water, fires and explosions. He has investigated a wide range of failures in plastic, ceramic, metal and composite materials. He also uses his engineering knowledge and experience of the processes required for a forensic investigation to determine the causes of fires in residential, commercial and industrial premises.

In 2006 Andrew opened Hawkins' seventh office in Reigate, which has been set-up specifically to assist clients based in the south-east of England.

Andrew is experienced in the legal process and has given evidence in the capacity of an expert witness.