"I love what I do. In addition to the wonderful people that I work with and engage with each day, teamwork is an important part of how we solve problems."
For me, it was the diversity of what a career in engineering could look like and lead to. Even within each type of engineering, there are multiple technical disciplines, which could then lead to many different career pathways from technical specialties, design management and coordination, project management, and business management for diverse employers, including both private and public entities. Engineers solve problems and "make it happen." They have the opportunity to have a significant impact on our society and improve the quality of life in our communities.
I love what I do. In addition to the wonderful people that I work with and engage with each day, teamwork is an important part of how we solve problems. It is probably the fantastic projects that we design and build. Just look at how Sydney has developed in the last twenty years, it is astounding. Also, working for a global consultancy is rewarding and exciting, as I can bring and share best practices from around the world.
It’s hard to choose one, as I believe that each experience is worth having, good or bad, big or small, as it allows us to grow and develop as a person. As a culmination of these experiences though, I was so humbled to receive the UNSW's Judy Raper Award for Leadership earlier year; it was such a privilege. My very recent appointment as Managing Director, Arcadis Australia after working for Arcadis for over 23 years, also makes me enormously proud to lead such a talented and inspiring team of people who deliver such impactful projects for our community.
I think there are a few, one is the ability to adapt our skills to suit the digital evolution and advent of AI, and how we evolve these skills without losing the ability to consider the many stakeholders and perspectives that shape our great projects. Another is the ongoing pressure to deliver more for less in a quicker period to the same high standard whilst ensuring that with the hard work, we do, we continue to achieve a work-life balance and a sustainable career. Another is how do we attract more females to study a career in engineering to ensure we have a truly diverse cohort which represents our society.
Go for it, you won't look back. I guarantee it will open many doors for you in the future, leading to multiple pathways and the ability to continue professional development throughout your career. Be brave, open, and flexible when dealing with opportunities. I assure you that with this mindset you will go further faster.
Read more about all our 2024 Women in Engineering Award winners here: Trio of women engineers honoured by UNSW as prestigious Ada Lovelace Medal is awarded
As Australia’s best engineering faculty turns 75, there are just as many reasons why we’ve earned that title. Discover new stories weekly, celebrating the successes that have enabled progress for all.
