20 lessons in 20 years – reflections on OSL’s journey

This year, OSL Consulting Engineers celebrates 20-years of engineering excellence, innovation, and partnerships that stand the test of time. When I reflect on our journey – from our beginnings in 2005 to becoming a key player in the UK’s energy consultancy sector – I’m struck not only by how much has changed, but by the principles that have remained constant.

From a small, ambitious engineering consultancy in 2005 to the trusted partner we are today, serving clients across the energy process, and industrial sectors, we’ve seen our fair share of change. But if there’s one thing these two decades have taught me, it’s that the best lessons in business come from the people you work with, the challenges you face, and the values you refuse to compromise on.

To mark this milestone, I want to share 20 lessons I’ve learned over 20 years.

1. People make the difference

Invest in talented, curious, and committed people — they’ll achieve things you can’t imagine.

2. Listen first, advise second

Understanding a client’s real challenge is more important than rushing to a solution.

3. Agility is a superpower

In engineering consultancy, the ability to adapt quickly can be a competitive advantage.

4. The right job is not always the biggest job

Focus on where you can add the most value — not just on scale.

5. Trust is earned in the tough moments

How you act when things get challenging defines your reputation.

6. Bold thinking beats safe thinking

The best solutions often come from challenging the status quo.

7. Collaboration drives better outcomes

Complex problems rarely have a single-expert answer — they need teamwork.

8. Never stop learning

Engineering evolves, industries shift, and you must keep pace — or lead the change.

9. Celebrate the wins

Acknowledging success builds momentum and team spirit.

10. Own your mistakes

Clients and colleagues respect transparency and accountability.

11. Build long-term partnerships, not short-term wins

Relationships that span decades deliver more value than any single contract.

12. Diversity fuels innovation

Different perspectives and sharing ideas leads to smarter, more creative solutions.

13. Communication is as important as technical skill

Even the best solution fails if it’s not clearly explained and understood.

14. Sustainability matters

Every decision we make impacts the future — we have a responsibility to act wisely.

15. Look after your people

Wellbeing and performance are inseparable.

16. The small details make the big difference

Precision and quality build trust over time.

17. Technology is a tool, not a crutch

Use it to enhance expertise, not replace it.

18. Always keep the client’s goal in sight

It’s easy to get lost in the detail and complexity — but the client’s end goal is the compass.

19. Stay humble

Success today doesn’t guarantee success tomorrow.

20. Enjoy the journey

It’s the people, challenges, shared achievements and fun that make it all worthwhile.

As we look to the future, I’m excited about the opportunities ahead – from embracing new technologies to helping our clients navigate the energy transition. Our first 20 years have been defined by clever thinking, engineering excellence, and a commitment to delivering fit-for-purpose solutions. The next 20 will be no different.

Here's to our team, our partners, and our clients – and to the next chapter in the OSL story with nexos.