Issuu

CAREERS withSTEM

TERM 3, 2026

™

LE B U DOISSUE R P FO

FLIRADES T

engineering

Katherine Bennell-Pegg Astronaut

Launch your space career p10

Build tomorrow’s robots p14

Engineering the Olympics

p22

CAREERS with STEM.COM SPACE

ROBOTICS

DESIGN

CONSTRUCTION

ENERGY

GOVERNANCE

CAN BUILD WHAT THE FUTURE NEEDS Engineering is about solving problems that don’t have easy answers. At Macquarie, you won’t just learn how things work – you’ll learn how to solve the problems of the future. In our new Engineering Innovation Building you’ll bring ideas to life in purpose-built spaces, including civil engineering, geotechnical and fluid labs; a renewable energy and smart grid lab; a wi-fi/future communications lab; rapid prototyping facilities and a fully equipped mechanical engineering workshop as well as a nearby drone lab.

Beyond the classroom, you’ll join high-performing student teams pushing the boundaries of innovation on the global stage – from MQ Speed’s world-record-breaking vehicles to Macquarie Aerospace Rover Society’s (MARS) interplanetary rover projects. Because the world needs new ideas. New solutions. New engineers. Build your future in engineering with us.

FIND OUT MORE AND APPLY TODAY

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

CRICOS Provider 00002J | TEQSA Provider PRV12032 | FSE00663 | PHOTO: NASA

Engineering is as much about creativity as it is about technical skill, so you’ll learn to think differently, design boldly and turn ideas into reality. By tackling real-world challenges – from clean energy technologies to infrastructure that supports the cities of the future – you’ll build the skills you need to solve problems without a blueprint.

FOREWORD

Shoot for the stars Katherine Bennell-Pegg, the first professional astronaut to represent Australia, is on a new mission – to help open doors to space and STEM

Out-of-thisworld CV

IMAGES: KATHERINE BENNELL-PEGG - MEDIA MATERIALS

from chaos. It’s ngineering creates order It also makes the how to science’s why. And it’s taken the impossible, possible. ntures. me on extraordinary adve s more Being a space engineer wa agined. It took me incredible than I’d ever im work on some of all over the world. I got to ons and the most compelling missi ped for, like ho ve ha technologies I could the capsule that missions to other planets, the Moon as part of took people back around to help understand Artemis II, and missions re. I was able to our oceans and atmosphe st in the world. learn from some of the be t my chance to Then, five years ago, I go It’s ‘pinch-me’ stuff apply to be an astronaut. ssions to the space to now be qualified for mi ! station – even the Moon am, it’s this: that dre er If I may have anoth c ‘give-it-a-go’ we bring Australia’s classi If a 13-year-old girl attitude to STEM fields. ospace engineer, says she wants to be an aer not “Are you sure?” I want the response to be se”. but “Yeah, that makes sen

Head here to see all of Katherine’s incredible qualifications and workplaces: bit.ly/ KBP_CV Or scan here

Katherine Bennell-Pegg

t Australian Astronau e ac Sp n Australia Agency For those of you who wa nt to be astronauts, it’s said that the first perso n to walk on Mars is in a classroom somew here today. Perhaps it’s an Australian classroo m. Perhaps it’s your classroom. Perhaps it’s you. But even if it’s not you, I wish you a dream to enjoy. And when you find a dream worthy enough, pursue it without hesitation. If you don’t fit the stereotype, kn ow you add extra value. If you are underes timated, delight in proving them wrong. You can be at the forefron t of discovery, solving our grandest chall enges. You can capture opportunities. Yo u can create them. You can make what was once impossible, possible. You can write yo ur own story. Katherine Bennell-Pegg Australian Astronaut Australian Space Agency

When you find a dream worthy enough, pursue it without hesitation” 3

Follow Katherine on Instagram: @aussieastrokatherine

ENGINEERING

CONTENTS

Double issue: Flip over for careers in trades

What’s inside?

P26

Think it. Design it. Launch it. P6 P5 Youth voiceser No matter your care path, consider getting on y a board to have your sa r in decisions that matte

P6 What kind of u? engineer are yo Take this quiz to find out!

P10

P8 Major explainer

Uh, what kinds of engineering are out there? Check out 10 popular majors

= + X er STEM ne engine ing (STEM) Combi to with your passion (+X) discover a world of opportunities! Engineering + …

P24

P10 Space

P14

Imagine yourself among the stars, with an engineering + space career

P14 Robotics

P18

Love getting hands-on? Combine coding, engineering and creativity to build robots

SHUTTERSTOCK

P18 Design &kicongnswtrithuctetichon nical

Mix creative thin ur big ideas to know-how and bring yo the real world

Why engineering? A

ustralia is experiencing an eng ineering skills shortage. Our countr y relies on half a million qualifie d engineers to tackle pressin g challenges, from space to the clean energy transition. In the future, you’ll find engineering opportu nities in everything from con stru ction to quantum, plus fields we hav en’t imagined yet!

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

P24 Energy the clean energy

Passionate about of potential transition? There’s lots

Lead on

We need more ST EM mi nd s on boards ma kin g decisions that matter. If you wa nt to create rea l impa ct, ST EM + governance is a powerful combination.

UPFRONT

S N O I S I C E D E K MA LIKE A BOSS Ever wondered who actually makes the big decisions that shape our society? That’s where governance comes in. Time for you to get in on the action! , and how s are made, who gets a say ion cis de w ho ut abo is ce that shapes overnan behind-the-scenes system the It’s . ble nta ou acc ld he uses its leaders are and how your sports team es lici po l’s oo sch ur yo m that will everything fro es and climate action plans ess sin bu big to y wa the membership fees, all shape our future. rful way to create change. but governance is a powe l, ma for bit a nd sou t gh It mi er to get involved. ve to wait until you’re old ha n’t do u yo : ng thi the And here’s

WORDS: ADELE ROEDER | IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

rnance Discover gotve Governance are

Organisations like Jus of power more helping to make these spaces The Discover accessible to young people. ed to break Governance course is design ly is and show down what governance actual ng women, young people – especially you se with lived tho and gender-diverse people in these ong bel experience – that they decision-making spaces. connect you The program is designed to nce, and its with others, build your confide to step into real mentors can even help you mean joining governance roles. That could munity projects a board, contributing to com of organisations or helping shape the future you care about.

Speak up

Whether it’s joining a youth committee, becoming a student executive or even landing a director position on a board, stepping into leadership role s when you’re young means you get to help shape decisions that affect you. It can also help you develop skills that emplo yers look for, such as speaking up, thinkin g critically and understanding different per spectives.

vernance.org Find out more: justgo 5

ENGINEERING

UPFRONT

f o d n i k t a h W ? u o y e r a r enginee ch , renewable energy te ts bo ro s, ite ll te sa on t! Should you be working ke this quiz to find ou Ta s? ing ild bu w ne or amazing

There’s a surprise test at school. You hope it will be in... A Physics b Digital technologies c Maths d Industrial technolog y

If you could travel , absolutely anywhere ? go u where would yo

A The Moon b The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation in Tokyo c Solar Square in Seoul d The Burj Khalifa in Dubai

What would be the be st birthday present ev er? A Having a star named after you b An Arduino starter kit c A solar-powered keyboard or watch d Computer par ts so you cou ld build your own PC

What do you like doing s? in the school holiday atory A Visiting your nearest observ rd kya bac or stargazing in the C b oding or robotics camps c Being outdoors as much as possible d Playing team sports

WORDS: LOUISE MEERS | IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

The three things you’d take to a deserted island would be... A Freeze-dried ice-cream, a laptop and a telescope b ChatGPT, a programmable robodog and a huge LEGO set c A solar backpack to charge the phone and tablet you’d also be taking d A toolkit, a first-aid kit and a tent

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

The results are in...

In primary school, you’d always borrow books from the library about... A Planets and planes b Sci-fi worlds and robots c Animals and Ear th d World records

Mostly A’s

aerospace engineer page

Turn to Space is the place for you! ards an 10 to take your first steps tow engineering + space career. Aerospace You should also dive into our ospaceJK Engineer Job Kit: bit.ly/aer

Mostly B’s

Favourite video game? A No Man’s Sky b A stro Bot c T he Sims 4: Eco Lifestyle dM inecraft

robotics engineer

e AI amazes you, and you lov over to Flip . robotics and/or coding ible page 14 to see what incred a. things you can do in this are Ex tra points for reading our gineer Robotics + Automation En Job Kit: bit.ly/roboticsJK

Mostly C’s

Choose a documentary or movie to watch! A Project Hail Mary b T he Electric State c Our Planet II dM egastructures

energy engineer Make a difference with renew able sources of energy like wind and solar. Learn more about clean energy pathways on page 24. Find out even more in our Renewable Energ y Engineer Job Kit: bit.ly/renewableJK

Mostly D’s rk You’re at a theme pa do e er Wh or carnival. u yo head first? er-coaster A An indoor, high-speed roll reality ride b The virtual or augmented c Go-karts you have D To find the site manager – some questions

construction engineer part of

and be You love to lead and organise, page 18 – design exciting projects. Check out at for you! and construction could be gre Future Cities Get more career inspo in our JK Shaper Job Kit: bit.ly/future

ENGINEERING

UPFRONT

MAJOR EXPLAINER Want to be an engineer but not sure what type? Here are 10 popular engineering majors and what they’re all about

Aerospace

develop Aerospace engineers design and s, flight vehicles (like aeroplane and raft cec spa s, ket helicopters, roc s. tem sys ir satellites) and the

Defence Job insight: Working for the Harrison up, Gro y log Science and Techno a point d che rea e is always learning. “I’v ully to ngf ani me where I can contribute arding to be part rew It’s groundbreaking projects. self.” of something bigger than my

Biomedical harrison

Chemical

Chemical engineers design the processes that turn raw materi als, like plants, oil or even waste materials, into useful products like medicines, clean energy and food.

WORDS: LOUISE MEERS | IMAGES: SUPPLIED / SHUTTERSTOCK

Civi

Electrical

service and Civil engineers design, build, we ture ruc adapt the public infrast s way depend on. Think: roads, rail and waste networks.

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

sayura kairbekova

Job insight: Michel Hannoun, a chemical engineering studen t at UNSW Sydney, says: “It’s rewarding to build solutions that are technically sound and environmentally responsible.”

#4 l

Job insight: Civil engineer Genevieve De Michele loves rk in seeing the product of her wo the t pas e driv “I the real world. so Legacy Way tunnel and I get it.” ng usi are ple excited when peo

Biomedical engineers mix physics, biology and tech to design and build the devices and equipment used in healthcare and medicine. Job insight: Biomedical engineer Justin d’Ettorre works at Stryker, one of the world’s leading medical tech companies. He helps pioneer medical tech development that shapes patient outcomes and experience.

michel hannoun

justin d’ettorre

Electrical engineers use maths and physics to power our homes, classrooms, cities and satellites – designing and managing both large- and small-scale systems that transmit energy and process information. Job insight: Electrical engineer Sayura Kairbekova says: “There are so many career paths available with an electrical engineering degree, such as project engineer, communications engineer or test engineer.”

genevieve de michele 8

erica deegan

Environmental

ructure, ign and build sustainable infrast Environmental engineers des happens. n eve it mental impact before helping prevent negative environ engineer an environmental and water Job insight: Erica Deegan is pressing st field tackle some of the mo who believes careers in this de e. “We help, move and gui problems our communities fac the way.” ges, solving problems along communities through challen

Discover your future career We have 20 (and counting) engineering job kits to help you on your study and career path. Check them out at bit.ly/eng_jobkits or scan the QR code below.

CAREERS

withSTEM JOB KIT

sanduni gamage

™

Aerospace

Engineer Design, build and test aircraft and spacecraft to push the boundaries of flight

kosala gunawardane

Renewable energy build and

design, Renewable energy engineers hnologies, like solar tec rgy ene maintain renewable wind and biomass. photovoltaics, solar thermal, ane, Associate Job insight: Kosala Gunaward Engineering at rgy Ene Professor of Renewable AC power grid to the UTS, says: “As we transition are so many re DC and renewable energy, the tribute.” con things to build and develop and

CAREERS

withSTEM JOB KIT ™

Mechanical

• x + • •

Mechanical engineers design , analyse, manufacture and maintain ma chines, like renewable energy, power gen eration and transport systems. Job insight: Mechanical eng ineer Sanduni Gamage likes playin g a part in looking after precious resour ces. “With things such as climate change and population growth, it becom es ever more important to adapt, improve and innovate in how water is sourced and supplied.”

• • x + • •

Robotics & Automation

Engineer Insights and information on careers in robotics and artificial intelligence transformative technologies

CAREERS

withSTEM JOB KIT ™

Electrical

Engineer

katrina lo surdo

james schifferle

Power up your future with a career full of security and opportunity

CAREERS

withSTEM JOB KIT ™

Robotics and mechatronics Robotics and mechatronic engineers develop smart machines and self-operating robots. Job insight: Katrina Lo Surdo works in circuit board design and hardware development. “These are the embedded systems that ensure all the robot’s electrical elements are connected correctly.”

Software #10

Software engineers mix comput er science with engineering and use their knowledge to design, develop, test and maintain software programs and apps.

Biomedical

Engineer Invent solutions to real-world challenges in medicine and healthcare

Job insight: James Schifferle is a software engineer and enjoys that his work is hands-on and tha t he gets to write code every day.

ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING+SPACE

TO THE MOON D N O Y E B D N A

Here’s why engineering in Australia is one of the most ex citing launchpads for a space caree r

ntages. Giant stralia has unusual adva Au , ace sp to es com it n he d robotics ridors. Strong mining an cor h nc lau ng azi Am es. ski bo makes us omy capability. This com ron ast io rad ep De se. rti expe thern hemisphere. mission control for the sou ustry spans defence, s for astronauts. The ind That means it’s not just job s, robotics, AI and more! riculture, communication ag g, nin mi h, tec te ma cli

WORDS: JASMINE FELLOWS AND CRISTY BURNE | IMAGES: JOSH VALCARCEL, NASA, JOHNSON SPACE CENTER / SHUTTERSTOCK

THE ARTEMIS GENERATION Earlier this year, Artemis II sent astronauts around the Moon. Still feeling the space hype? Get ready for what’s next! Artemis III, late 2027

Study this

Do this

This mission is all about testing lunar landers to make sure they’re safe before sending people down in them.

Aerospace

Build rockets, spacecraft, flig ht

Artemis IV, early 2028

systems

The first crewed lunar landing since 1972! The astronauts are heading to the Moon’s south pole to conduct science experiments.

Mechanical

Develop off-planet bases, airl ocks, thermal control systems, manufacturing in spa ce

Electrical

Wire up satellites, power sys tems

Artemis V, late 2028

Mechatronics

A second lunar landing. The astronauts will get started on building a permanent Moon base!

Construct robots and autono mous sys

Systems

Then, a Moon mission every year. Could you be part of the action?

Run complex space missions

Cyber security

Protect satellites and digital infr

Telecommunications

Work on ground stations or spa ce

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

tems

astructure communications

Read more about e Divya in our Aerospac ! Kit b Engineer Jo

START YOUR CAREER HERE

A day in the life ... Di

ENGINEERING + SPACE + STUDY

vya Jinda

10am:

ional By 2030, Australia’s nat for: ing aim is gy ate str space

e $12 billion annual spac lue va industry 20,000 additional jobs in the sector

10.30am:

Plan or check manoeuvres.

11.30am:

Globally, the spac e economy is projecte d to reach as much as

$2.2 trillion by 20 40! Th at growth is spill ing directly into engineering demand.

Meet with the Satellite Operation s team to discuss any recent satellite or ground issues.

12.30pm:

Lunch outside if the day is sunny, with a nice view of the satellite antenna dishes!

1.30pm: Head to the Satellite Control Room to execute any required satellite operations.

3pm: Project work for upcoming satellites and reading documentation.

4pm: Coding and testing of satellite procedures on the satellite simulator.

5.30pm: Plan or check more manoeuvres, analyse satellite telemetry data.

6pm: Home time!

Bachelor of Science (Space Technology), University of Southern Queensland Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), Macquarie University Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Telecommunications), UNSW Sydney Master of Engineering (Systems), Adelaide University

ENGINEERING + SPACE + JOBS Aerospace engineer $63K–$151K

Satellite systems engineer $65K–$191K AI specialist $51K–$261K Telecommunications engineer $51K– $129K *Salaries according to payscale.com

Bachelor of Commerc e (Business Economics), UNSW Sydney

Space stats

Arrive at work, check emails and read the satellite log. Check if I need to plan any manoeuvres, schedule any satellite operations or investigate any satellite telemetry.

Diploma of Engineering, UTS

Cyber security engineer $60K–$152K Bachelor of Aeros Engineering, UNSW Sypace dney

ivya is a technical specialist in Optus’ satellite division, getting the excitement of the space industry, from the comfort of Earth. One day she’s analysing data 36,000km away, the next she’s coding satellite procedures or planning manoeuvres to keep them sky high.

Engineer, Optus

Senior spacecraft sy and orbits engineer, stems Optus

Senior spacecraft syl stem and orbits engineer s

ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING+SPACE

Project complete Macquarie University’s brand-new Engineering Innovation Building is now open and YOU can study there!

Fast facts Who: Macquarie University What: The Engineering

Innovation Building. It’s the new home for the School of Engineering and the Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) – they design instrumentation and software for the world’s largest telescopes. Engineers, scientists and students work side-by-side here to spark new ideas and bring them to life. Professor Richard McDermid, Director of AAO says, “I think that it’s great for students to get exposure to how professional work happens.”

Cool features lding has: The Engineering Innovation Bui

WORDS: LOUISE MEERS | IMAGES: MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY / JOHN SARKISSIAN / SHUTTERSTOCK

When: Right now. The

building is officially open, and students are innovating as you read this!

Where: 9 Wally’s Walk, at the heart of the campus.

Why: The building is

designed to deliver a new, innovative curriculum, built around project-based learning within purposeful and impactful courses.

Professor dermid richard mAucst ralian Director of Astronomical Optics

How: Architect Woods

Bagot brought the building to life with help from ERA-co, a global place consultancy.

electrical • T wo mega labs – one fors, and one for engineering and robotic engineering mechanical and materials isolate irectional speaker tech tocan be held •D sound so multiple classes in the labs art grid lab renewable energy and sm •A ns lab wi-fi/future communicatio •A n auditorium •A apid prototyping facilities •R aces edicated virtual reality sp •D resentation zones •P fully equipped mechan •A engineering workshop

ical

n outdoor area for large •A experiments CAREERSwithSTEM.com

, messy

This article was produced in partnership with Macquarie University

grace rosier Macquarie University student

STUDENT INSIGHT

in the final year of a Bachelor Grace Rosier, who is currently trophysics) / Bachelor of of Science (Astronomy and As ills on why the Engineering Engineering (Mechatronics), sp for STEM students. Innovation Building is so great a sense of belonging among engineering students and immerses them in discipline -specific environments. I bel ieve this will assist students in com pleting impactful projects that thoroughly prepare the m for their chosen industry after graduation.

CwS: Hey Grace! What’s so special about the Engineering Innovation Building? G: My first impression was how the openness of the space promotes an engineering community! On any given day, I see the familiar faces of fellow engineers working in the labs surrounding me. The different lab spaces suited to each discipline allow students to immerse themselves in meaningful projects relevant to their passion.

CwS: And what’s it like hav ing AAO on campus? G: Exciting! Their collaboration with Macquarie University will open doors for students like me to gain industry experience while studying. Ha ving AAO in the Engineering Innovation Building also inspire s me because there is a clear progression from students stu dying a degree at Macquarie University, to having the opp ortunity to intern with the AA O, to then working in the indust ry. CwS: What do you love mo st about studying engineeri ng and science at Macquarie University? G: I love how the projects tha t we do can be applied directly to the real world. In my astron omy major we are taught how to analyse data using data set s taken by telescopes across the globe, and in engineerin g there is a clear connection between the circuits I build and bigger-scale systems we use in everyday life.

CwS: How do you think this will benefit learning? G: From the concrete mixing lab for civil engineers to the CAD labs for mechanical engineers, the building fosters

Virtual tour scan here

ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING+ROBOTICS

g n i m o o b e r Bots a

g and futuristic tech, If you’re into coding, engineerin pathways to explore robotics is one of the hottest

Kung fu robots

The one th in g we did n’t have on ou r 2026 bin go card? Hu manoid robots perform in g ku ng fu live on Ch inese nationa l TV, complete wi th swords, poles an d nu nchucks. The clip from th is year’s Sprin g Festiva l Ga la in Beijin g went vira l worldwide – even mak in g head lines in Austral ia!

ing in obotics is absolutely boom g, defence, Australia right now. Minin , healthcare agriculture, warehouses all hiring robotics and even space tech are engineers fast. you might have If you’ve seen the news, stralia’s national got the message about Au It’s a problem. productivity slowdown. er ways to get Basically, we need smart ere robotics and more done, and that’s wh automation come in. nt is focusing The Australian governme ots, AI and on new tech because rob add an extra uld automated systems co alia’s economy str $170–$600 billion to Au ion? Huge lat every year by 2030. Trans can build, program demand for people who and run this tech.

What’s hot in Aussie robotics Field robots

Built for tough environments, these robots can be found around mines, bushfires, the deep sea, even on the Moon.

Wearable robots

A University of Queensland team is trialling a robotic exoskeleton for people living with motor neuron disease – a world-first MND trial.

WORDS: JASMINE FELLOWS, SMRITI DANIELS | IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

Conservation robots

These bots are monitoring the Great Barrier Reef and helping grow new corals to replace bleached ones.

Get started now! • Join your school’s robotics club, or start one • Enter RoboCup Junior Australia or FIRST Robotics •B uild something with a Raspberry Pi, Arduino or micro:bit

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

START YOUR CAREER HERE

The Ds of robotics

LL – DISASTERS – DISCOV DIRT Y – DANGEROUS – DU

ENGINEERING + ROBOTICS + STUDY

ERY – DANCING

Advanced Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical), TAFE NSW

or dull for s that are too dir ty, dangerous job ut abo talk to like ts icis Robot of nuclear ic waste, checking the inside humans. Think: cleaning tox rk we’d wo is s side of skyscrapers. Thi reactors or scrubbing the out rather hand to robots! ors in collapsed buildings) and Add disasters (finding sur viv ), deep ocean floor or volcanoes discovery (exploring Mars, the what robots are for. and you’ve covered most of , half dancing. Half showmanship And of course, let’s not forget , and as useful as it is fun. stress test for the hardware

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Robotics and Mechatronics), Monash University Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical and Mechatronic), UTS Master of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, QUT

ENGINEERING + ROBOTICS + JOBS

OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD ENGINEERING

anson Lauren Hen gineer Mechanical

sometimes you learn more from failure than success” Bachelor of Science, Monash University Mechanical engineer, Gilmour Space Technologies

auren Hanson designs robots for space – and her workshop reaches all the wa y to the International Space Station. As a kid, Lauren loved LEGO and pulling things apart to see how they worke d. Now she’s a senior mechanical engineer at CSIRO , Australia’s national science agency, and her late st collaborator orbits 400km above Ear th. Astrobee is a trio of cube-shap ed robots that float through the International Spa ce Station on fans, helping astronauts with resear ch and routine tasks. Next up: robots to mind NASA’ s planned Lunar Gateway when no humans are on board. Designing for space means dodging flammable materials, brutal temperatu re swings and zero gravity. It also means failing – a lot. “If you’re not failing, you’re not learning. Sometimes you learn more fro m failure than you do from success,” Lauren says.

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours), Monash University Robotic design team lead, CSIRO’s Data61

Robotics engineer $50K–$101K Automation engineer $62K–$133K Mechatronics engineer $62K–$126K Software engineer $65K–$131K *Salaries according to payscale.com

Project lead, Nova Rover

Senior mechanical engineer, CSIRO’s Data61

ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING+ROBOTICS

Robotics in the regions It’s time to flip the script on what jobs in regional Australia really look like, and you can be part of the action!

Where STEM jobs live Australia’s regional areas are an exciting place to build a robotics career.

WORDS: JASMINE FELLOWS | IMAGES: ARM HUB

an n far north Queensland, is coming automation collaboration more than to fruition – and it’s doing planting the just boosting bananas. It’s s all across seeds for future tech career regional Australia. nding has For decades, banana de-ha process of resisted automation. It’s the a stalk m fro cutting banana clusters a heavy It’s . that can weigh up to 100kg mans – the and dangerous job for hu ots. kind of job best left to rob mselves to the d len n’t “Bananas do er crops do,” automation like some oth from the explains Dr Rosie Godwin ’ Council. ers ow Australian Banana Gr lled it off. pu s But a massive team ha QUT and Experts from ARM Hub, owers’ the Australian Banana Gr ed by Council joined forces, back od Fo e tur Fu , on Hort Innovati rm Fa an ali str Systems and Au e Robotics. Together, they’v to e yp built a working protot de-hand bananas using s computer-guided water jet instead of knives. “Water has always been g,” a part of banana processin ical lead hn tec e, rdi says Dr Troy Co executes d tho me is at ARM Hub. “Th

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

clean cuts while saving us the planning involved in using a knife’s fixed edge.” The system has plenty of advantages. It’s safer than using knives and also delivers consistent cuts, which helps stop the spread of banana diseases. The result? More efficiency for banana producers and a better product for consumers!

“Bringing technology enhancements into regional Australia will also have benefits for our young regional Aussies,” says Wayne Austin from B&L Industrial Solutions. “[It enables] an opportunity in robotics, in programming, in automation that is usually reserved for our major cities. So we’re not just future-proofing an industry, we’re also futureproofing the region.”

You could be a... ✖ Robotics and automation engineer ✖ Electrical engineer ✖ Software engineer ✖ Data scientist ✖ Agricultural scientist

mechatronic

five minutes with UTS mechatronics engineering student, Chloe Radoll WORDS: LOUISE MEERS AND JASMINE FELLOWS | IMAGE: UTS

At UTS, you can study Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering to develop machines, robotics and automation systems. Here’s what Chloe has to say about her experience.

ENGINEERING+ROBOTICS

Wired for success

doll chloe rsaen gineer

CwS: Why study at UTS? C: They do a lot of hands-on subjects. I’m a person that learns best like this. Being there I have made so many friends and met so many amazing people.

INTERN ABROAD h the From UTS to the UK! Throug ce National Indigenous Spa Academy, Chloe scored a placement at RAL Space, collaborating with engineers from around the world on cutting-edge laser systems. e you? Where will your degree tak

learn more about chloe

CwS: You have been president of the Robotics Society for three years. What is that like? C: As a leader, it gives me great joy to see students grow their skills. I also really enjoy seeing the number of women in robotics grow. CwS: What would you say to students considering engineering? C: There is no certain stereotype for engineers. In the world of engineering, all types of people are needed.

This article was produced in partnership with UTS

If you can imagine it, Get ahead ofit.the curve with you can create

WORDS: ELLEN PHIDDIAN | IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK

are next-generation leaders with innovation and entrepreneurship skillstoinunearth new anda emerging fields. Want future in engineering? Build a career that will Learn specialist knowledge improve communities with the university where 100 per cent of and gain hands-on industry engineering grads get jobs – and earn a starting salary 35 per experience in cutting-edge cent higher than engineeringfacilities. grads from any other university.* • Get paid while you study with industry cadetships. • Experience real-world, project-based learning. • Connect with industry and be taught by practising engineers. • Choose from our range of engineering courses to find your perfect fit.

Best of all, you could score a Transgrid engineering scholarship worth $20,000 See where a degree in Engineering or Engineering – therecan aretake 25you. on offer each year. Information Technology *Quality Indicators from Learning and Teaching

Information Technology Learn more csu.edu.au/engineering

Charles Sturt Engineering UTS Engineering and IT graduates

ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING+DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

n o i t i b m a e t e Concr

future-proof the skyline to e tim ter ar sm a en be r ve ne s up for grabs, there’s With 130,000 construction job

ool hink beyond the old sch ng housing stereotypes. From tackli ofing shortages to climate-pro ers call nn pla gen xtinfrastructure, ne olding as for as much solution-scaff hard hats , no d physical building. An aren’t always required. ed of Equipped with a new bre ve become digital tools, engineers ha balancing the ultimate city-shapers, sign and community needs with de future-proof safety considerations to fessional our public spaces. As pro d 9-to-5 en sp problem-solvers, they n-dollar lio bil turning blueprints into e lik zerobuilds, delivering things s, sustainable carbon transport network retail precincts. housing hubs and smart gineering grads, And in good news for en up. opportunities are levelling

Headcount Urban planners

Big-picture thinkers who design the layout of our cities to ensure they stay liveable, connected and easy to navigate.

Civil engineers

Infrastructure backbones who design and oversee the construction of essential structures like roads, bridges and tunnels.

Sustainability engineers Experts who ensure projects use eco-friendly materials and energyefficient designs to leave a zerowaste legacy.

Ahead of schedule

Site stats

Don’t wait until you’ve finished study ing to brea k grou nd. Most construction companies open graduate prog ram applications a year in adva nce.

Protectors of the local ecosystem who manage air quality, water runoff and soil health during a build.

Building information modelling (BIM) managers Digital wizards who create 3D virtual models of projects to spot problems before construction even begins.

130,000

The number of additional construction workers Australia needs to meet its goal of building 1.2 million new homes by 2029.

Project leads

High-level coordinators who manage timelines, people and bringing blueprints to life.

$64 billion

WORDS: CASSIE STEEL | IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

The approximate value of wasted construction materials over the next five years unless Australia adopts better building practices.

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

Environmental engineers

New builds Sydney Metro, NSW

eet Hayley Bell, co-founder and director of Belnic Constructions. The groundwork: The QUT gra d found her calling early on. “I started working in a commercial fitout during my first year of uni.” The foundation: Hayley studie d a Bachelor of Urban Development (Construc tion Management) to get the right mix of skills. “I did practical subjects that were directly rele vant to the work I was doing – estimating, con tract administration and programming.” The build: Every day is about high-stakes coordination. “My focus is on running live projects – coordinating trades consul tants and clients – and preparing cost plans for new projects.” The handover: Her advice ? Be bold. “Don’t be modest about achievements or what you want in terms of career progression… there are so many opportunities out there.” Stalk Hayley’s CV in the Construction Project Management Job Kit

Australia’s biggest public transport project recently finished 128km of tunnelling across its network, using driverless trains to connect Greater Parramatta to the CBD in just 18 minutes. Employing: systems engineers, geotechnical engineers and electrical engineers

Skill stack STEM smarts

Advanced engineering, physics and coding knowledge

West Gate Tunnel, Vic

Design drafting

Completed late last year, this trafficbuster was designed to move 9,000 trucks off neighbourhood streets and onto an epic new highway. Employing: civil engineers, acoustic engineers and environmental engineers

Bachelor of Design (Civil Engineering Systems), The University of Melbourne Bachelor of Architectural Design, The University of Queensland Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), Charles Sturt University Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) (Honours), Edith Cowan University Certificate IV in Residential Drafting, TAFE NSW

ENGINEERING + DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION + JOBS Civil engineer $64K–$118K Structural designer $58K–$136K

Director, Belnic Constructions

BIM manager $75K–$152K

Virtual modelling

Construction supervisor $65K–$144K

Green engineering

Sustainable and energyefficient design capabilities

Aiming for a zero-waste legacy, venues are designed to maximize existing infrastructure and include permanent upgrades that benefit the community long term. Employing: sustainability engineers, structural engineers and urban planners

ENGINEERING + DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION + STUDY

Technical drawing, 3D layout and site plan proficiency

3D software and digital twin fluency

Brisbane 2032 Olympics, Qld

Project Coordinator, Built Queensland

Project Manager, FDC Construction & Fitout

Super structures

Bachelor of Urban Development (honours) (Construction Management), QUT

Urban Deve

Bachelor of Business (Psychology), Griffith University

ll hayley be loper

START YOUR CAREER HERE

*Salaries according to payscale.com

leadership

Project coordination and communication skills

Smart planning Budgeting and scheduling expertise

ENGINEERING

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

engineering teaches you how to think critically”

Engineering program, Tokyo City University x ECU

“Back in high school, ECU off ered STEM summer programs for aspirin g students,” he explains. “That gave me con fidence that the university genuinely invested in practical experiences and opportunities outside the classroom. It turned out to be true throughout my degree.” Drew recommends getting as much hands-on experience as possible by get ting involved in projects like building a PC or working on a car. Plus, stay curious! “Engineering teaches you how to think critically and solve problems , but that mindset starts long before university . The people who grow the most are usually the ones who continue asking questions, exploring ideas and learning outside of what’s required.”

Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) (Honours), ECU

WORDS: LOUISE MEERS | IMAGE: SUPPLIED

mechanical rew is a product manager and a company engineer at Siemens Mobility, rently he’s focused on rail transport. Cur where he tem sys managing a visual inspection earch and res m fro le oversees the product lifecyc tion ova inn gy, development through to strate s. ement and customer-focused improv role allows me to the t tha is st mo “What I enjoy g knowledge with combine technical engineerin and collaboration creativity, problem-solving two days are ever “No s. across teams,” Drew say ry itself is evolving the same, and the rail indust and innovation.” quickly with new technologies w’s bingo card, Working in rail wasn’t on Dre ce he saw just how but once he entered the spa mechanical many opportunities exist for engineers and beyond. areas such as “There’s growing demand in learning, sof tware electronics, AI and machine ering, systems engineering, electrical engine omation,” he says. engineering and advanced aut there? Edith And the degree that took him of Engineering Cowan University’s Bachelor w chose ECU for its (Mechanical) (Honours). Dre hands-on learning approach.

ENGINEERING+DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

Product manager/delivery lead, Siemens Mobility

Engagement assistant, Engineers Australia

mechanical

Graduate mechanical/project/ product manager, Siemens Mobility

ia drew gaenrc gineer

Mechanical engineering intern, Siemens Mobility

lanced creativity, Wanting a job that baphysically building things, problem-solving and mechanical engineering Drew Garcia landed on

Undergraduate mechanical engineer, Primero Group

CAREER ON TRACK

This article was produced in partnership with Edith Cowan University 21

ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING+DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

LEGACY LEADER

ane’s multi-billion-dollar isb Br re su en to ion ss mi a on is Expert engineer Felicity Furey s community – not just the Game Olympic build is made for the

y-sized o stranger to tackling cit has ity lic Fe projects, this year ressu pre : a very specific focus e’s 2032 an isb Br testing the masterplan for ing inn ard-w Olympic Games. The aw industry the g gin en all engineer is ch n framework, with her Legacy by Desig ok The Future a concept from her new bo of Engineering. nt thing is “I think the most importa ,” she says of ers connecting with future us ora orp te people, the project. “We must inc ment and legacy community, the environ d consistently.” into our designs early an

Furey Felicitygin eer Civil en

Winning plans

While the spotlight often stays on the stadiums, Felicity believes the real legacy is found in how we move around our city, which includes improving road infrastructure and public transport for the long term. “It’s an exciting opportunity to connect Brisbane and south-east Queensland,” she says. “We need to consider the uses of transport corridors and design from there.” Improving traffic not just for two weeks, but for 50 years? That’s already a win.

WORDS: CASSIE STEEL | IMAGE: PIC CREDIT / SHUTTERSTOCK

Built to last

Felicity is pushing for the Brisbane masterplan to prioritise community benefits like parks and pedest rian access. Drawing inspiration from the London 2012 Games, where bike lanes were routed through construction sites to keep loc als connected to the build, Felicity’s focus is centre d on usability, longevity and genuine human connection. And her biggest priority? Cha llenging the industry to think bigger about what an Olympic build could become for Austra lia – not just during the Games, but for generation s afterwards. “What if infrastructure could actively improve wellbeing, connection and eve ryday quality of life for people long after the Olymp ics are over? That’s the opportunity in front of us, ” she says.

Bachelor of Engineering (Civil), QUT Director industry partnerships, Swinburne University of Technology

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

rt of The most important pa ing clear collaborating is gett ion and on the outcome, intent gn for” value we want to desi

Diploma of Project Management, AIPM Founding director and CMO, Machinam

Founder and CEO, WeAspire Senior project manager, Arup

Associate, Ontoiy

At Charles Sturt, Kevin Win found a degree that fast-tracked his curiosity and set him up for a career in structural engineering

WORDS: CSU | IMAGE: CSU

hen Kevin was thinking about what he want ed to study, there was really only one answer. “I already knew from high school that I want ed to become an engineer. I’ve always liked the idea that problems can have more than one solution, and engineer ing is all about finding the best one.” By studying engineering at Charles Sturt, Kevi n knew he’d get industry experience – because Charles Sturt offers more paid cadetships than any other university. “The Charles Sturt cadetship is like a fast-track way to become a working engineer. It helps you gain real experience early, so you’re ready to start straight after graduating.” Not a maths whiz? Don’t stress – if you’re a problem-solver, Kevin says studying engineering is for you. “It’s about understanding real-world problems and how things work in practice.”

ENGINEERING+DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

Solve problems from any angle

Want a degree with real potential? Study a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours). study.csu.edu.au/engineering-honours

kevin win gineer

structural en

This article was produced in partnership with Charles Sturt University

Graduate ahead of the pack with our industry paid cadetships as part of our Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) • 2+2 format where you’ll study 2 years on campus, then 2 years of paid industry cadetships

Once you complete a common first year, you’ll have your choice of our three majors. Choose from:

• Work on real world projects with real industry partners

• Civil engineering • Electrical engineering • Mechanical engineering

• Graduate with more hands-on experience than any other engineering degree in Australia

Build your potential with engineering

• Be job-ready from day one: 100% of our students are employed within 4 months of graduating (QILT 2024) TEQSA PRV12018 (Australian University) CRICOS 00005F. Course CRICOS 117609F.

study.csu.edu.au/engineering-honours 23

ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING+ENERGY

e p a h s e r d n a e Energis ! a i l a r t s u A f o the future sing more cracks in our po ex sis cri l fue the th Wi er. ev nd now more than career! Renewable energy is in dema to choose a renewable energy e tim ing cit ex an it’s , ms ste sy traditional and ageing energy

lmost every person, house and business in Australia relies on energy systems for a good quality of life. That means combining engineering and energy is the ultimate chance to have a high-impact career. With Australia reaching for Net Zero emissions, the biggest growth area in energy right now truly is the renewable sector. Between AI, data centres and emerging technologies, our demand for energy is still growing. With this growth comes challenges to consistently gather, store and transport energy in a stable and reliable way. Luckily, engineers are professional problem-solvers. Engineering can harness the power of the sun, wind, water, heat and even waste to power our world. For example, bioenergy is where energy is harnessed from biomass (organic material) – how’s that for recycling?! Renewable energy careers span the whole energy system from grid connection, to battery storage, electric vehicles, hydropower and lots more! Time to power our way to a more hopeful future.

Isaac Martin

WORDS: ELLA MCCARTHY | IMAGES: SUPPLIED / SHUTTERSTOCK

Wind energy engineer

powering progress school when a wind energy saac found his niche in high ssroom and inspired him to engineer visited his Year 8 cla er, motivated by the consider being an engineer. Lat vement, Isaac decided his School Strike for Climate mo a renewable energy focus. engineering path would have . Engineering is the most “I wanted to take direct action he says. direct application of science,” tralia’s technical From solar-powered cars to Aus “kn time ee deep in heritage, Isaac spent his uni projects to support my interesting cross-disciplinary specialisation,” gaining Renewable Energy Systems s. a diverse skill set in the proces raising the bar on b, dla Win at Now, Isaac works g fossil fuel obsolete. renewable energy and makin rating Australia’s “I’m passionate about accele issions,” he says. “No em transition to true zero-carbon everyone should benefit.” one should be left behind and

Bachelor of Engineering (Research & Development), Renewable Energy Systems, Australian National University

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

Undergraduate engineer, Windlab

Project engineer, Windlab

START YOUR CAREER HERE ENGINEERING+ ENERGY + STUDY

What’s in a name?

Non-renewables are sources of energy that are limited, so we are runn ing out of them. Renewables, on the other hand, are sources of energy that replenish quicker than we can use them. These are energy sources we’re certa in we can use for generations to come.

Bachelor of Engineering (Photovoltaics and Solar Energy) (Honours), UNSW Sydney Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering) (Honours), The University of Sydney Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) / Bachelor of Computer Science, The University of Queensland

Powerful jobs Renewable energy engineer: Support projects

Master of Engineering (Sustainable Energy), RMIT

across decarbonisation, power generation and energy storage.

ENGINEERING+ ENERGY + JOBS

Grid connection engineer: Integrate renewable

Renewable energy engineer $55K–$95K

energy with the grid to distribute clean power around Australia.

Mechanical engineer: Forces, materials

and structures come together to bring your renewable energy designs to life.

Electrical engineer:

Design, build and test the electrical systems that are behind our renewable energy sources.

Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) engineer:

Grid connection engineer $90K–$110K Mechanical engineer $65K–$125K Electrical engineer $65K–$130K SCADA engineer $70K–$125K *Salaries according to payscale.com, seek.com.au and glassdoor.com.au

Design and monitor critical computer systems to keep renewable infrastructure running at peak efficiency.

ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING+ENERGY

CRITICAL ENERGY are minerals. Lots Behind the clean energy boom

of them. Let’s check ’em out!

den ingredients ritical minerals are the hid h. They’re rare, powering tomorrow’s tec extract, but tricky to find and hard to s like smartphones, they’re essential for thing electric vehicles and batteries, wind turbines, solar panels. energy and advanced As our demand for clean mine, process and tech grows, we’ll need to se minerals – and that recycle stacks more of the for engineers, scientists, means big opportunities d problem-solvers. geologists, data experts an nt has a list of 31 The Australian governme a, with its ancient critical minerals. Australi of many of them. So geology, has big reserves you’re in the right place! st crucial Here are some of our mo nerals needed to technologies, and the mi make them work.

Solar panels

Silicon is a key par t of all com mercial solar panels, as it conver ts ligh t into electricity. Light, waterproof aluminium is a handy material for the pan el frames.

Batteries

WORDS: ELLEN PHIDDIAN | IMAGES: SUPPLIED / SHUTTERSTOCK

Computers + data centres

Lithium, as the lightest metal, is usually the best choice for a portable battery. Lithium-ion batteries also typically need cobalt, while other battery styles rely on vanadium and rare-earth elements.

Every electrical circuit uses capacitors, which contain tantalum. Computer chips also need nonreactive metals like platinum and palladium to work, and fluorine is used to make the chips. Gallium is used to make the LED lights

Could we reclaim minerals from waste? E-waste is going to be an increasingly important source of critical minerals like lithium. If you enjoy making treasure from trash, you might want to investigate circular economy research. And in the meantime, if you have an old phone or laptop to get rid of, look up e-waste drop-offs in your local council.

in screens.

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

Power up

nd eddy raem s

Eddy Rand is using his en support the renewabl gineering skills to e energy transition

power syst engineer

s a power systems engineer for TasNetworks, Eddy is in the team working on the Ma rinus Link, which connects renewable energy networks between Tasmania and Victoria. His role involves loo king into faults and outages, as well as protecting the sys tem against large faults and disturbances. “All these thin gs help suppor t more renewable energy in the Tas manian grid,” he says. To land this gig, Eddy studie d electrical power engineering. Mid-way throug h his first year of study, the Australian Power Institute (AP I) gave a presentation on their scholarship and some of the challenges in the renewable energy transition . “The concept of working in renewable energy seemed exc iting since it’s hugely important to Tasmania, where I’m from.” With his mind made up to pur sue a career in the power industry, he successfully app lied for an API scholarship. “The API scholarship guaran teed me work experience while at university,” he says. “This set me up for work aft er university, where I was offere d a job with TasNetworks 12 months before graduating.”

WORDS: LOUISE MEERS | IMAGE: SUPPLIED

Check out the API Power up Program

Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Power), University of Tasmania

Engineering internship, TasNetworks

Graduate electrical engineer, TasNetworks

Your Future in Power Starts Here. For undergraduate students:

ENGINEERING+ENERGY

This article was produced in partnership with THE Australian Power Institute

Engineering internship, Hydro Tasmania

Power systems engineer, TasNetworks

For high school students: We created Careers in Power to empower power-passionate students and individuals in taking their first step towards their dream career in the power sector.

CONNECT WITH US

The Power Up Program is designed for undergraduate students wanting to CONNECT with industry professionals, CREATE innovative solutions, and take CHARGE of their future with exciting industry and scholarship opportunities along the way.

The Australian Power Institute @australianpowerinstitute The Australian Power Institute @australianpowerinstitute www.api.edu.au info@api.edu.au

Exclusive invites to career-related events

Scholarship information and more

Motivating stories from university students

Profiles of inspiring people in power

ENGINEERING

NEXT STEPS

Find your engineering edge Learn how to design your future career Careers with STEM: Engineering 2026 is a publication and trademark of Refraction Media. Copyright © 2026 Refraction Media, all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner or form without written permission. If you would like to reproduce anything from this magazine, email: info@refractionmedia.com.au.

Everything socials

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

@emily.the.engineer (TikTok, Youtube & Instagram)

Become the real-life Iron Man and learn how to make things from your favourite mo vies and TV shows. Just remember : Emily is a professional. Leave the hig h-voltage and heavy-duty inventions to the experts!

@Stuff Made Here (YouTube)

Watch American engineer and programmer Shane Wighton as he builds unique machines at his home workshop.

@cluely (Instagram & TikTo k)

A tech startup that uses com edy to nail the reality of office life. While you won’t see any direct engineering, the vid eos do show nuances and challen ges that systems engineers face when working with co-worke rs from different professional backgrounds.

This issue went to press on 13 July 2026. Printed in Australia by IVE.

Electives checklist

✔ Applied computin g ✔ Systems engineerin g ✔ Physics ✔ Mathematical me thods (CAS) or special ist mathematics ✔ English

Watch Disasters Engineered (Apple TV & Prime Video)

ws experts Ongoing TV show that intervie ering on some of the greatest engine rld. disasters in the wo

) Oppenheimer (Prime Video

tionary While this is ultimately a cau and its b bom mic ato tale about the penheimer, Op ert Rob J. father, physicist uably the the Manhattan Project was arg llenge cha g erin ine greatest systems eng in history.

Cover image: Courtesy of the Australian Space Agency Produced and published by: Refraction Media Co-founder, CEO & Publisher: Karen Taylor-Brown Partnerships Manager: Rachel Jones Managing Editor: Jasmine Fellows Deputy Editors: Louise Meers and Ellen Phiddian Sub Editor: Amelia Caddy Art Director: Katherine Power Writers: Cristy Burne, Smriti Daniel, Jasmine Fellows, Ella McCarthy, Louise Meers, Ellen Phiddian, Adele Roeder, Cassie Steel, Samantha Wheeler Student advisors: Verity Beech, Rachel Hoang, Vivian Lowe, Andrew Quah, Molly Taylor, Mia Yong

SUBSCRIBE AND ORDER COPIES: CareerswithSTEM.com/subscribe EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: Email: info@refractionmedia.com.au POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 154, Oyster Bay, NSW 2225, Australia ISSN 2209-1076 PEFC Certified

l) Westworld (Binge and Foxte

med Centres around a western-the androids by ted ula amusement park pop ological chn ‘te e hav (robots) that start to difficulties’.

Paper from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources PEFC/21-31-119

pefcaustralia.org.au

SHUTTERSTOCK

r/engineering memes

A whole Reddit thread dedicated to every engineering meme you can think of!

CAREERSwithSTEM.com

Take our quiz area of engin:eeWhich ring should you study ? 28

Flip over for careers with trades!