Patrick has been a part of the YEA Sydney Committee for five years and is passionate about providing diverse learning and development opportunities for young engineers and students. 

Tell us about yourself? 

I am a chemical engineer who works in the project management of waste processing and water treatment solutions. Using my skills and experiences to make a positive impact to our environment by working on solutions to remediate some of the most contaminated development sites in Australia has been extremely rewarding. 

I grew up and studied in regional Queensland and after graduating moved to Sydney for work opportunities. Volunteering with the YEA Sydney committee soon followed. I have been volunteering for five years now and this role has provided me with a platform to contribute to our profession and mentor many students and young engineers who attend our events. Outside of work I play football for my local club and love watching all things sport. 

Can you tell us how you got into engineering?   

I was fortunate to have great teaching influences during my early schooling years. I displayed a passion for science and maths, and I was encouraged to pursue engineering. Coupled with an intrinsic motivation for solving problems and wanting to make the world a better place, engineering felt like the ideal career path for me.  

Due to the influences encouraging me into engineering, I understand the role that we can play as volunteers when we are attending the many secondary and tertiary education engagement events and the important role we can play in shaping the future of the profession. 

What inspires you to keep volunteering with the committee? And what do you hope to achieve in your role as Chair this year?     

The people I meet and connections I make at our continuing professional development, networking and engagement events is what inspires and motivates me to continue to give back to our profession. The thought-provoking discussions and passion for engineering that young engineers and students have gives me great hope for the future and the positive impacts that we can have as a collective. 

We have a passionate and diverse committee this year and big plans for 2024. We are planning several large events focused on the energy transition, mentoring and AI just to name a few. As chair, my aim is for our committee to create an inclusive and collaborative environment where engineers from all disciplines and experiences can meet, listen and learn from each other. I also want to encourage young engineers to play a more active role in policy and advocacy for our profession, which is often overlooked by young engineers. 

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

Embrace networking, say yes to new opportunities, and prioritise continuous learning. By expanding your connections and network, saying yes to new challenges and learning opportunities and staying curious, you are destined to continue to be the best version of yourself. 

I would encourage everyone to get involved in volunteering with any organisation and enjoy the breadth of experiences and the amazing people you are guaranteed to encounter.  It is never too late to get involved.