Why did you study engineering? 

To be honest, Civil Engineering was not my first choice when I entered college. However, due to financial challenges my family faced at that time, I opted for Civil Engineering instead. 

I realized that with determination and a positive attitude, it is possible to succeed in any field you choose. Embracing this mindset allowed me to persevere, complete my degree, and ultimately find fulfilment in my chosen career path.

How has your graduate experience at Aurecon been so far? 

My graduate program at Aurecon has been an incredible journey, filled with opportunities for growth and learning. I was part of the Roads Team within Global Delivery Centre Group, where my role as a Graduate Engineer primarily focused on road design and related engineering tasks. 

From the start, I was actively trained by my manager on how to use different tools for designing roads such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and OpenRoads Design. Our team provided a supportive environment where collaboration and knowledge-sharing were highly encouraged. I had the opportunity to work closely with experienced engineers and mentors who guided me through complex engineering problems and solutions. These trainings and collaborations will help me in the future projects that I will be in. 

One of the most rewarding aspects was the inclusive and dynamic culture at Aurecon. The organisation’s emphasis on innovation and diversity resonated with me and fostered an environment where I felt encouraged to share my ideas and perspectives. 

What were the highlights of your graduate experience?

The supportive culture of Aurecon has been evident in every interaction and event I’ve participated in. The Summer Fest and Limelight Manila have not only introduced me to the company’s dynamic culture but also allowed me to connect with my colleagues on a personal level. 
The GDC Town Hall and Pride Month events were pivotal in honing my skills and discovering my voice within the company. Whether it was performing in front of my peers or facilitating discussions on crucial topics like Pride Month, each moment has been a learning opportunity that has enriched my professional and personal growth.

The Roundtable Discussion with our CEO and Chief Client and Growth Officer was particularly inspiring, providing valuable insights into the qualities that drive success and the path to becoming a proficient engineer. The guidance and encouragement received from seasoned leaders have been instrumental in shaping my approach to my career and reinforcing my commitment to continuous improvement.
As I move forward, I am particularly grateful for the chance to share my knowledge with interns and colleagues, which has further deepened my understanding of road design and engineering principles. 

What’s the lesson you learned from your graduate program that you didn’t learn in uni?

One of the most significant lessons I learned from my graduate program at Aurecon, which wasn't covered in university, was the importance of real-world collaboration and communication within multidisciplinary teams.

What advice can you give to students and future graduate engineers?

The world of Engineering is a constantly evolving field. You need to equip yourself with various skills to be able to engage with new technologies, industry trends, and ongoing professional development. Staying curious, continuously asking questions, and committed to continuous learning is crucial. You also need to enhance your communication skills clearly and effectively, as you need to communicate your ideas to the clients and make them understand clearly what you are trying to say. Communication skills can significantly impact your project’s success. 

While academic knowledge is important, gaining hands-on experience is invaluable. Internships and project collaborations can provide real-world exposure and help you understand how theoretical concepts apply practically. If you are planning to work in a design and engineering consultancy, you need to be adaptive and open to feedback. Be willing to learn from both the success and setbacks as constructive criticism is a tool for growth, so understand that feedback as opportunity to improve and refine your skills.