Quick Chat with Damien Balachandran MIEAust
Damien Balachandran MIEAust is a Hardware Engineer at Seeing Machines. He played a key role in the development of ‘Guardian’, which addresses operator fatigue in transport environments, reducing fatigue events by up to 80%, and leading to him being recognised as one of 'Australia’s Most Innovative Engineers'.
What is your current job title and function?
My current job title is Hardware Engineer. My role is primarily to develop the hardware aspects of seeing machines.
Why are you an engineer?
I am an engineer because I want to help other people to use the world around them in a sustainable way to build a better way of life.
What are you working on now?
I am working on a product that manages the fatigue of drivers. It is called the Guardian and it uses sophisticated computer vision algorithms to detect facial features and determine if the driver is able to operate a vehicle based on his/her level of attention.
Any advice for young engineers just starting their career?
I would encourage them to ask as many questions as they can because there will be a lot to learn. Don't be discouraged by being unsure or about needing to obtain extra clarification and guidance, as this is what will teach you how to handle yourself in more complex projects and situations.
If you weren’t an engineer, what do you think you would be doing?
I would have tried to be a doctor if I was not so afraid of blood. If that failed, then I would be pursuing my rock star career. It’s not too late to give that a go, right?
What do you see as one of the biggest issues facing the engineering profession?
One of the biggest issues is the perception that engineers lack the ‘soft skills’ that are more sought after in other professions.
What is your favourite TV show?
It’s a bit of a cliché, but I really enjoy watching MythBusters! I don't always agree with their assessments, but they do a great job given the resources that they have.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I really enjoy playing my bass or reading about new technology, both of which I do not do enough of!
What is the best piece of advice your parents gave you?
Never give up and always plan ahead! Sometimes life will be tough on you and it will seem unfair, but push through.
Why are you an Engineers Australia member?
I choose to be a member because I value the need for advocacy of engineers. There is a lot of good work that is being done by Engineers Australia that is of value to engineers of all ages and stages. Being professionally recognised by this body not only gives recognition to my qualifications as an engineer, but also gives me the opportunity to leverage the various services that are offered to members.
If you could take a year off to study anything, what would it be?
If I could learn anything, it would be to study art and music in more depth. I've always been intrigued by the ability of artists to express themselves through a painting or a musical piece.
What is your motto?
Don't stop trying because sometimes good things just take a bit of time. Sometimes you need to take a walk before you realise the answers you were looking for were right in front of you.
For more information and to nominate for 2017, visit: innovativeengineers.com.au.
Image:Damien Balachandran MIEAust. Courtesy of create magazine.