News
| 22 June 2022

Meet Steve Adamthwaite, Deputy Chair of Young Engineers Australia National Committee

Can you tell us how you got into engineering?  

I like to say I’m a product of good community engagement. I grew up near a large gold mine, and the company who ran it did a fantastic job getting into schools in the regions and sharing the different career paths available. It was through that engagement and exposure that I realised I wanted to be a chemical engineer because of the diverse industries in which I could work. I found my way to the water industry because of my desire to do work with my local community in a positive way, and to be in an industry that aligned with my personal values. During my career I have been able to work across several industries and with a number of companies, both in Australia and overseas. This would definitely make my younger self happy I’d chosen engineering! 

Can you tell us about an exciting project you worked on?  

I have been extremely fortunate to work on projects within Australia and overseas. One of my favourite recent projects was doing an independent technical review for the Dili Water Supply Emergency Response Project in Timor Leste. In April 2021, a cyclone wiped out the main water supply pipeline to the capital, Dili, leaving roughly 220,000 people without access to clean, reliable, and safe drinking water. As part of the project, I was able to ensure there was the necessary reviews in place and funding could be released for the construction phase. 

I have also been working on a project a little closer to home in Western Sydney, where I have been preparing a strategic business case for $1.6B for the funding of the first phase of development related to a new wastewater and recycled water treatment and servicing strategy. It is amazing to be part of projects that lead to a cooler, greener and a more liveable city using integrated water management. 

What inspired you to join the committee? And what do you hope to achieve by joining?   

During my career and as student, I’ve had fantastic mentors and benefitted from the work of various committees. I wanted to make sure that support continued for people entering the industry now. The Young Engineers National Committee is an important conduit between the management of Engineers Australia and our members, being able to advocate for our member’s specific interests at the highest level. I’ve been part of the Committee for several years now and we’ve seen how we can engage change.  From embracing online channels, more digital solutions and curated content for our members, to pushing and advocating clear positions on climate change, diversity and inclusion and Engineers Australia’s digital strategy.  

What advice would you give to young engineers who may be in a similar position to yourself?  

Take chances and get involved—your networks are your greatest asset! I get a lot of enjoyment from being involved in committees, making some great friends and having an outlet to engage with other engineers, particularly those outside my immediate industry. Those networks are also really key for your future career. It might not be tomorrow or the next day, but the engineering industry is a small world and there are so many interesting things happening that you never know what opportunities will come from your networks. I have been able to get a new job, join new committees and contributed to initiatives like papers on climate change at COP26.