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What’s your job about?
SYSTRA is an engineering consulting firm so that means that I’m helping clients understand what their needs or issues are and working with them on a day-to-day basis. I’m currently undergoing my first rotation with a senior engineer in the transport sector and I’m shadowing him through his career to get a better idea of the work he does and learn more about the company. It’s really helpful having such a good mentor because it means I can ask him anything and we talk almost everyday. He’s really good at getting me involved in “bite-sized” tasks for different areas of the business so I get to try different things and meet different people within the company. My average day usually consists of a few meetings, going through emails, lunch with colleagues, and scheduling some extra productive hours to get work done, and usually the days go by pretty quickly. As a graduate, you tend to get a lot of “odd jobs” which I don’t mind because it’s 1-2 hours of work and when you’re done you feel more accomplished rather than working on a massive project where you can’t really see the end product for a few years.
What’s your background?
I grew up in the northern suburbs of Melbourne and moved closer to the city when I was in high school which had a pretty big impact on my schooling and my friends at the time. Changing schools in Year 10 was pretty tough but it helped me become more independent and I even got my first job. While I knew working in retail wasn’t for me in the long run, my colleagues made the job worthwhile. In my final year at university, I wanted to get some industry experience so I got a job in maintenance at a chocolate mousse factory. At times, juggling full-time university and two jobs was really tough but you learn a lot about yourself and if you can prioritise your time, you can actually achieve anything. When I finally graduated, I was pretty burnt out and I quit my job and I went backpacking through Europe for 3 months. I knew it was something I really wanted to do, as my family is Italian and Maltese and I definitely want to go back soon.
Flash forward to February 2023, I got off the plane and started my new job at SYSTRA two days later. Now it’s crazy to look back on because I’ve already been working for SYSTRA for four months! The final year was stressful enough and applying for jobs made it even more stressful but I’m glad it paid off and I could focus on my exams knowing I had a position at SYSTRA.
“There are so many different projects that the management team tries really hard to put you on a project that makes sense for your background and skill set.”
Could someone with a different background do your job?
Definitely yes, all of the graduates I’ve met at SYSTRA come from different backgrounds, the only things we have in common are an engineering degree, a willingness to learn and respect for the company. There are so many different projects that the management team tries really hard to put you on a project that makes sense for your background and skill set. That being said, there are some characteristics that will help you thrive no matter what company you work for, an open mind, a good attitude and persistence go a long way.
What’s the coolest thing about your job?
My job is pretty unique because I’m working so closely with a senior engineer it’s really easy for me to know if I’m doing my job well. We have daily meetings, usually only 15-30 minutes, where we go through what I’ve done and what I’ll be doing until the next meeting. It really gives me a chance to ask any questions and get feedback. In addition, my colleagues in Melbourne make an effort to try all the different lunch spots in our area so there’s always an open invite for some good food. We also have a tennis court in our building!
What are the limitations of your job?
Engineering consulting is such a broad and overwhelming industry so sometimes it can be hard to see where you fit in. Especially as a graduate, sometimes a project lead will need someone more experienced and because it’s a client’s request, there isn’t much room to persuade them otherwise. I think the biggest limitation of my job is being underestimated, sometimes it might feel like you’re not being utilised to your full potential but I think as time goes on, people get to know you better personally and professionally and you have a better sense of belonging.
3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student…
To find out more about the SYSTRA ANZ Graduate Program click here.
SYSTRA ANZ’s mission is to be there where it matters; on the complex projects with the greatest impact, providing innovative solutions that will shape the future of our communities. As one of the world’s leading engineering and consulting groups, we are focused on building tomorrow’s mobility solutions today. Operating in more than 80 countries, we have designed 1 in 2 of the world’s metros and highspeed rail lines. The ANZ team is an integral part of part of our global network, backed by 9000+ experts, providing us the unique ability to be agile with global scale.
For more information, please contact: Victoria Black, Director of Clients, Markets and Engagement, SYSTRA at vblack1@systra.com.
SYSTRA ANZ Appoints Sandi Robertson as Director – New ZealandSYSTRA ANZ goes from strength to strength with the appointment of Sandi Robertson as Director – New Zealand.
Sandi is a highly skilled major projects manager and leader within the engineering industry. She has 17 years’ experience in project management and has worked on major rail and mass transit projects across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia for over a decade.
“Sandi is a key appointment for our business as we continue to expand our presence in New Zealand.” says Alana Newbrook, Chief Executive Officer SYSTRA ANZ.
“Sandi will be instrumental in providing leadership to the local team and driving the delivery of projects that enable the diverse communities of Aotearoa to thrive.”
Sandi has a deep understanding of the client and stakeholder landscape in the context of large-scale, complex transport infrastructure projects. She brings a collaborative approach to SYSTRA ANZ, with a focus on technical excellence and delivery.
She says, “I look forward to strengthening our deep connection to the region by supporting new and existing clients and partners. With significant growth expected over the coming decades, I am excited about the future of transport infrastructure in Aotearoa and how SYSTRA ANZ can contribute to the success and longevity of new projects that deliver sustainable transport solutions and support the communities they serve.”
Sandi is based in our Auckland office. To find out more about Sandi’s role or to get in contact with her, please click here.
SYSTRA ANZ’s mission is to be there where it matters; on the complex projects with the greatest impact, providing innovative solutions that will shape the future of our communities. As one of the world’s leading engineering and consulting groups, we are focused on building tomorrow’s mobility solutions today. Operating in more than 80 countries, we have designed 1 in 2 of the world’s metros and highspeed rail lines. The ANZ team is an integral part of part of our global network, backed by 9000+ experts, providing us the unique ability to be agile with global scale.
For more information, please contact: Victoria Black, Director of Clients, Markets and Engagement, SYSTRA at vblack1@systra.com.
8:30am: After catching the train or riding my bike, I usually get into the office just after 8:30am.
8:35am: I will usually greet everyone in the office and set myself up at the desk before grabbing a hot cup of tea to start the day
9:00am: When starting on my work for the day, it is often good to review what meetings are coming up and if there are any urgent emails that require attention.
11:00am: Being in the office is always great to catchup with colleagues.
12:00pm: Team lunch in China Town is always a good day. Having an office in the city ensures I have plenty of good lunch options around me.
1:00pm: After lunch it is back to work. A team meeting to understand what the next priorities are for a current project. I especially like collaborating and bouncing ideas with my colleagues in person.
5:00pm: After a good afternoon of working, collaborating with colleagues and meeting deadlines, I pack up for the day and head home.
To find out more about our signature team, please click here.
SYSTRA ANZ Appoints Rob Scarbro as Director – Systems IntegrationSYSTRA ANZ is pleased to welcome Rob Scarbro as Director – Systems Integration in the Major Projects team.
Rob brings over 30 years’ experience in the development and delivery of major projects across the transport, defence, and energy industries. He is a leader in the fields of systems integration, safety and systems assurance, governance, and broader rail engineering.
“Rob is a key appointment for the business as we bolster our systems team to become a systems integrator of choice for our clients. Rob will be an integral player in our global systems group and help leverage international expertise into Australia and New Zealand. We are thrilled to have Rob on our team and expanding our practice in the Victorian market.”
Alana Newbrook, Chief Executive Officer SYSTRA ANZ
Rob is an established transport executive engineering and systems leader, previously holding key roles at Metro Trains Sydney, Department of Transport Victoria, and Rail Projects Victoria.
He says, “It’s a great time to be joining SYSTRA as the business expands its footprint and expertise in ANZ, and I’m excited to be a part of a global leader in transport engineering and consulting. I am looking forward to delivering world-class critical infrastructure solutions on behalf of our clients.”
Rob is based in our Melbourne office. To find out more about Rob or to get in contact, please click here.
SYSTRA ANZ’s mission is to be there where it matters; on the complex projects with the greatest impact, providing innovative solutions that will shape the future of our communities. As one of the world’s leading engineering and consulting groups, we are focused on building tomorrow’s mobility solutions today. Operating in more than 80 countries, we have designed 1 in 2 of the world’s metros and highspeed rail lines. The ANZ team is an integral part of part of our global network, backed by 9000+ experts, providing us the unique ability to be agile with global scale.
For more information, please contact: Victoria Black, Director of Clients, Markets and Engagement, SYSTRA at vblack1@systra.com.
SYSTRA ANZ Appoints James Fuary as Director – Capability Systems EngineeringSYSTRA ANZ’s Security and Technology Solutions team continues to grow, with the appointment of James Fuary as Director – Capability Systems Engineering.
“James is a key appointment for our business as we look to grow and establish our capability” says Andrew Waye, Executive General Manager – Security & Technology Solutions. “James will provide leadership ensuring that our people deliver excellence and achieve customer satisfaction.”
James is an innovative engineering leader bringing 25 years’ experience and diversity across the fields of defence, transport, and government. In previous roles James has steered engineering functions and led multi-national teams in delivering large-scale programs.
James says, “I am looking forward to helping SYSTRA ANZ grow and reach its potential while retaining the organisation’s great culture and values. We have an opportunity to make a substantial difference in the Security and Technology Solutions domain and I am excited to be on that journey.”
James is based in our Sydney office and will be responsible for leading and advancing capability systems engineering services and solutions in the Security and Technology Solutions team. To find out more about James or to get in contact, please click here.
SYSTRA ANZ’s mission is to be there where it matters; on the complex projects with the greatest impact, providing innovative solutions that will shape the future of our communities. As one of the world’s leading engineering and consulting groups, we are focused on building tomorrow’s mobility solutions today. Operating in more than 80 countries, we have designed 1 in 2 of the world’s metros and highspeed rail lines. The ANZ team is an integral part of part of our global network, backed by 9000+ experts, providing us the unique ability to be agile with global scale.
For more information, please contact: Victoria Black, Director of Clients, Markets and Engagement, SYSTRA at vblack1@systra.com.
SYSTRA ANZ Appoints Michelle Bedson as Director Program Service Delivery – FederalSYSTRA ANZ is pleased to welcome Michelle Bedson as Director Program Service Delivery – Federal, in the growing Security and Technology Solutions team.
Michelle brings over 15 years’ experience in delivering key Federal government initiatives focused on major Information and Communications Technology reform, complex program and project delivery, stakeholder leadership and cyber security resilience.
“Michelle is a key appointment for our business as we look to expand our expertise across Federal and nationally-based clients” says Andrew Waye, Executive General Manager – Security & Technology Solutions. “Michelle will provide leadership in critical asset and digital solutions to support resilience and respond to cyber threats.”
With strong leadership abilities, Michelle has directed and managed large teams involving project managers, business users, programmers, and analysts.
She says, “I am looking forward to the challenge of business leadership while providing delivery excellence and value to our clients in the Federal domain. I want to produce excellent delivery outcomes for our clients that showcase our teams’ capabilities and skills.”
Michelle will be based in our Canberra office. To find out more about Michelle’s role or to get in contact with her, please click here.
SYSTRA ANZ’s mission is to be there where it matters; on the complex projects with the greatest impact, providing innovative solutions that will shape the future of our communities. As one of the world’s leading engineering and consulting groups, we are focused on building tomorrow’s mobility solutions today. Operating in more than 80 countries, we have designed 1 in 2 of the world’s metros and highspeed rail lines. The ANZ team is an integral part of part of our global network, backed by 9000+ experts, providing us the unique ability to be agile with global scale.
For more information, please contact: Victoria Black, Director of Clients, Markets and Engagement, SYSTRA at vblack1@systra.com.
