- Who are you and what is your role, and what is the project you are currently working on?
My name is Courtney and I am a Project Engineer working on Sydney Metro project at Waterloo Station. My role is to manage the coordination of subcontractors installing systems such as Radio, Signalling, Communications, Central Control Systems and Passenger Screen Doors.
- Could you tell us a bit about your career journey, how did you get into transport?
I started at John Holland 5 years ago as a Graduate after finishing my degree. I worked in the rail sector on a range of diverse roles in precontracts, delivery, testing and commissioning including roles as a Design Engineer, Site Engineer and Requirements Engineer. Currently as a Systems Engineer, I have specialised in project development and Verification & Validation activities and have spent time working in Operations Control Centre to manage rail operations. In 2021, I moved to working for MTR Australia on the Sydney Metro project managing the installation and testing and commissioning of rail systems at Waterloo Station.
- What does a typical day as a Project Engineer look like for you?
Lots of meetings 😊. My day is full of interface meetings with the Station contractor, Line wide contractor who are installing rail throughout the tunnel, designers for each discipline and client meetings with Sydney Metro. The aim of these meetings is to coordinate between all parties to ensure a coordinated design and coordinated schedule of site work activities. I also attend site for inspections and to coordinate site activities when required.
- In 2050, what do you think Australian transportation will look like?
In 2050, I believe Australian transportation would look like:
- A efficient integrated rail network across Australia in all major cities.
- A rail network that is inclusive and accessible to everyone.
- Integrated wayfinding at all stations to make it easy for customers
- New technologies for transport such as automated car and electrical buses
- How have you seen young people uniquely contribute to the projects you have worked on?
The team I work with currently consists of hard-working, enthusiastic young people who contribute positively to the industry. I’ve seen graduate engineers and site engineers that work on the project and work through construction related issues on site with a thorough understanding and practical thinking.
- Looking back, what advice do you have for graduates or early career professionals getting started in their careers?
- Be confident in yourself
- Learn from others
- Try different roles within the company from design to testing and commissioning for example
- Try different projects
- Meet lots of people in the company and within the industry through industry events
- Finally, what do you do outside of work to relax and have fun?
I enjoy the beach, playing indoor soccer, yoga classes, travelling and socialising with friends and family 😊!