MRP Team Spotlight – Kathleen Baird, Lead Information Manager – WSP

Posted: November 12, 2025

Q. What excites you most about your role in building this new hospital?

A. “Being involved in the creation of a building that will play such a vital role in the community I live in is incredibly meaningful. I’m proud to contribute to something that will positively influence outcomes for NHS Lanarkshire and its patients. It’s a privilege to be part of the area’s history, supporting a healthy, thriving community for generations to come.”

Q. Could you please share a bit about your professional background and how your skills or experience are helping shape this new hospital?

A. I’ve worked in construction for 15 years, with the last 10 focused on Building Information Modelling (BIM) – a process that uses digital 3D models of the physical and functional characteristics of buildings, from concept to operation and maintenance. I began my career with a main contractor, then moved into an MEP (mechanical, electrical and public health) consultancy before joining WSP eight years ago as part of the digital services team. My experience spans healthcare, aviation, commercial and leisure sectors, with a particular emphasis on data analysis and verification – skills that are vital to delivering a future-ready digital hospital like the new Monklands. As a member of the local community, this project holds personal significance for me. I’m deeply invested in ensuring that the hospital is not only technically robust but also serves the people of Lanarkshire with excellence and care. My practical understanding of construction processes, combined with a strategic view of digital delivery, helps bridge the gap between design, technology and stakeholder needs, contributing to a hospital that the community can be proud of.”

Q. What values or principles guide you in your work, and how have they influenced your approach to this project?

A. “Empathy is central to my approach, especially on a project that will directly impact the health and wellbeing of the community. It reminds me that every decision we make contributes to a space where people will receive care and support. Collaboration is also key; I thrive in multidisciplinary environments where open communication leads to better outcomes. My eye for detail ensures that the information we manage is accurate and reliable, which is essential for a digitally enabled hospital. Adaptability allows me to respond to evolving project needs and technologies, while pride in my work drives me to maintain high standards and deliver meaningful results.”

Q. Can you please describe a personal highlight of the project so far?

A. “A standout moment for me was leading the transformation of the stakeholder review process for NHS Lanarkshire using BIM360. Originally a tool for internal quality assurance, we reimagined its functionality to support a fully digital, auditable stakeholder review process, without disrupting existing workflows. This involved close collaboration with the client, project management, and architectural teams to design a system that improved communication, tracked actions and upheld NHS governance standards. One of the biggest challenges was ensuring inclusivity for non-digital stakeholders, such as clinical staff without access to personal devices. We developed a hybrid approach that allowed paper-based input to be captured digitally, using BIM360’s Issues feature to log actions and decisions. This solution not only enhanced collaboration and accountability but also reduced waste and improved efficiency. It’s been incredibly rewarding to help pioneer a process that balances innovation with inclusivity, ensuring every voice is heard in shaping the future of University Hospital Monklands.”

Q. In what ways do you think the project will leave a lasting legacy for the Lanarkshire community?

A. “The Monklands Replacement Project will significantly improve access to healthcare through digital inclusion, ensuring that services are more connected and responsive to patient needs. It will also create a positive working environment for NHS staff, supporting their wellbeing and professional development. The project brings ongoing employment opportunities to the local community, both during construction and beyond.

The new hospital will be a source of pride for NHS Lanarkshire, designed with lower maintenance needs and greater sustainability than the building it replaces. Through STEM engagement events, we’re inspiring students in the area to explore careers in construction and healthcare, helping them feel a genuine connection to the sector from within their own community. This project is not just about building a hospital—it’s about building a healthier, more empowered Lanarkshire.”

You may also like…