Meet your 2017 Sydney President – a ‘hybrid engineer’ Thursday, 19 January 2017

Quick Chat with 2017 Engineers Australia, Sydney President

Julie Mikhail FIEAust describes herself as a ‘hybrid engineer’, with a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering and a Masters in Electrical Engineering. Having spent most of her career at the Department of Defence, excelling in a variety of roles, she was awarded the CEO Commendation for outstanding performance and an Australia Day Achievement Medallion. More recently, she started her own company, Engineering Business Pty Ltd.

With over a decade of volunteering experience with Engineers Australia, Julie has held numerous Office Bearer positions, ranging from Chair of the Women in Engineering group for four years, to being part of the Sydney Division Committee in various roles and as a member of Congress.

What are your goals as President?

My goals as President are across three main areas:

  1. Reviving the Regional Groups.
  2. Continuing the momentum with industry and government engagement.
  3. Ensuring adequate support for our Office Bearer community.

What is your current job title and function?

I am the Managing Director of Engineering Business Pty Ltd, a consultancy company I started 12 months ago. I work with industry to develop government tenders and establish processes and procedures to improve a company’s bidding process and competitiveness. My focus is on SME companies.

Why are you an engineer?

I initially chose engineering as a career option because I liked science and maths and wanted a career that involved working with people as opposed to a lab-based research career. I’ve always loved the process that begins with a concept and eventuates into reality, and that’s what engineering does.

What are you working on now?

I am working with my first international client to develop a tender response for an aerial surveillance capability for the Pacific region, as well as assisting another company prepare for contract negotiations with the Department of Defence.

What is the most challenging or interesting project you’ve ever worked on?

My biggest challenge so far would have to be leaving an employer after 17 years to start my own company. However, while working for the Department of Defence, I managed the replacement of HMAS Manoora’s (Navy Amphibious ship) electrical switchboard and power system. I remember clearly standing on the side of the dock watching the new switchboards being craned into a hole cut out of the side of the ship. It was high pressure with many external issues to deal with and a tight deadline, but very fulfilling to see it all come together.

What do you see as one of the biggest issues facing the engineering profession?

I think providing opportunities for young engineers to grow and develop long-term in the engineering sector remains an issue. I also think the closing down and/or selling off of so much manufacturing and utility infrastructure in Australia will one day be looked back upon as short sighted.

What is the most recent book you read?

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. I’m usually reading an old classic.

What was the last movie you went to see?

Spectre

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Logical, optimistic, calm.

What is your deal holiday destination?

Italian Riviera.

What is the greatest piece of technology released in the last decade?

Probably Smartphones, Wi-Fi and flash storage.

What inspires you?

Positive thinking in the midst of adversity and genuine humility in the midst of great achievement.

 

Please feel free to email Julie if you have any queries throughout the year.

Image: Julie Mikhail FIEAust speaking in her role as Chair of Women in Engineering.