At Soundmask, we regularly spend time with acoustic consultants. They’re an interesting and talented bunch of engineers who often get taken for granted. So we’re starting an interview series to dig a little deeper into their world.

Today, we’re interviewing Luke Zoontjens who works at SLR Consulting in Perth. Luke has provided engineering consulting services over the past 22 years in architectural, industrial and environmental acoustics in a diverse range of industries.  Luke’s professional experience includes full design, documentation and commissioning associated with a variety of projects ranging from local government and infrastructure assets to major projects across multiple States and jurisdictions.

Luke is a state committee member of the Australian Acoustical Society (AAS) WA Division, having served as Chair for 9 years, and is a Federal Council Board member. He has authored fifteen peer-reviewed journal and conference papers on a variety of topics including environmental noise, transportation, sustainable technologies, ESD rating tools, and health facilities.

What’s the best part of being an acoustic consultant?

It’s an interesting blend of science, art and engineering, which spans all forms of biological life.  A career in acoustics can just as easily lead to underground measurements of structural vibration , the acoustic design of performance spaces, large scale environmental health studies or autonomous tracking of threatened marine species.  You never know where the next project will take you!

What’s the craziest situation you’ve faced onsite?

I can’t talk specifics, but it is impressive when you encounter something unusually loud and realise the simple reason why that is.  In my experience, it is almost always because someone has unknowingly constructed a bigger, industrial version of a simple musical instrument.  These days, there are powerful techniques now available to not only find and quantify the risks, but to hear the difference from any improvements before they built.

Which job are you most proud of and why?

The acoustic design brief for Perth Stadium and its surrounding infrastructure. The designer executed it well and the public seem to like it.

What advice would you give to aspiring acoustic consultants?

Engage with the professional community, via acoustics.org.au and aaac.org.au, and use that experience to find your niche.

If you could take anyone (not family) living or deceased on a yearlong road trip, who would it be and why?

Ted Simon, couldn’t ask for a better guide!