Free for student and graduate members, the Engineers Australia’s Elevation 2024 Careers Expo will bring together Australia’s top graduate employers. It’s an opportunity for young engineers to network with companies keen to develop and grow new talent.   

Student member Sulfiya Parveen from Western Australia attended the event last year, which gave her the opportunity to meet with various engineering companies.   

Sulfiya is currently studying a master’s in engineering after earning her undergraduate degree in India and she is always looking for opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills. 

“As an international student and new to Australia, I wanted to gain insight into the Australian market and meet professionals,” Sulfiya says. “The Elevation Career Expo was a great way for me to network.” 

The event kicks off with a networking masterclass, giving the attendees an opportunity to learn more about enquiring for roles, how to network effectively and follow up on applications.   

“When I got there, I received excellent networking and professional communication advice, and then my friends and I proceeded to the networking area.” Sulfiya recalls there were approximately 20–24 employers she could meet. “I met the graduate and student placement lead at Synergy,” she says.  

“I approached him with curiosity, and he requested our information. Then, after several follow-ups and interviews, I was placed as a vacation control and instrumentation engineer at Synergy with a great starting package.”  

Sulfiya found that as an international student attending the careers expo was a great way to meet employers and understand the local market. Now in her role at Synergy she has been able to make a significant contribution to the company.  

“Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work on several projects, where I was able to apply my talents and expertise,” she says.  

As one of last year’s success stories, Sulfiya provides her top tips for making the best out of this year's careers expo: 

• Do some investigation on the companies attending and identify the most interested ones, so you are making the best out of the time you have. 

• Actively engage with recruiters and representatives from companies you’re interested in.  

• Ask careful questions about corporate culture, available employment and prospects for professional progression.  

• Follow up with a thank you email or application and express gratitude for their time and insights.

If you’re a student or recent graduate, join us at Elevation 2024 Careers Expo in various locations across the country.