What inspired you to become a civil and structural engineer?
Looking through my father's 9/11 photos and videos as a child, which he took with his first digital camera while he was studying in the US, made me curious about engineering failures. Those images left me wondering about how the buildings collapsed, why the emergency stairs failed, and why there was no concrete core. In the same way, my curiosity led me to investigate how mega projects are constructed such as the Hoover Dam, Snowy Mountain Dam, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Burj Khalifa building, world trade centre buildings and the Freedom Tower. I’ve always found it interesting to learn how these structures are designed, and this is what led me to a career as an engineer.
What exciting projects are coming up for you?
I am currently employed by SMEC's Darwin office as a graduate civil engineer within the road and highways team. The main project I am working on is the Weddell Freeway project with the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics. The Weddell freeway project is currently in its early stages, which provides me with a unique opportunity to gain experience across a broad spectrum of civil engineering aspects. Additionally, SMEC has provided me with the unique opportunity to be involved in their projects in both South Australia and Queensland. The Rex Minerals hillside road in Adelaide and the Mount Spec Road in Townsville are two interstate projects that I am working on. It is truly rewarding for me to be exposed to such exciting projects in other states in Australia as a graduate.
Can you tell us more about your experience volunteering with Engineers Australia? And the value it adds to your career?
In my final year at university, I was selected to represent Charles Darwin University as a student ambassador for Engineers Australia. The student ambassador program enabled me to participate in several industrial events and spend more time with inspiring young engineers. I gained insightful advice on how to identify and develop my strengths to make an impact on my personal and professional life. By taking advantage of these opportunities, I found undergraduate work and a graduate position before I finished my studies. Additionally, EA has been a constant source of support for me during stressful times and pivotal turning points during my short professional career.
Can you tell us more about your inspiration for joining the Grad Give Back program?
At university I was an introverted back-bencher who went to lectures and home without talking to anyone. My university didn't have an engineering association, so there was no chance for me to network with other engineering students and industrial professionals. I’m grateful to Engineers Australia for providing me with an abundance of opportunities to refine and shape my hidden talents in order to overcome introvert qualities by providing the right mentoring and support. In my capacity as a graduate, I don't want anyone to face the same challenges I’ve experienced which is why I’m interested in helping current university students get out of their comfort zone, face challenges and overcome them rather than avoid them.
What advice would you give other graduate engineers?
Taking advantage of the opportunity to learn as much as you can, asking as many questions as possible, remaining positive regardless of obstacles, and most importantly, enjoying the challenges that come your way. I really encourage graduates to explore more opportunities outside of their comfort zones to gain a positive impact on their professional and personal lives.
Our pilot program, Grads Give Back, is an opportunity for graduate members based in the Northern Territory to apply to become mentors and mock interviewers for EA student members. Learn more about mentoring, leadership, and interviewing skills, while ‘giving back’ to the engineering community. Apply now.