In celebration of National Volunteer Week, we spoke to five Engineers Australia office bearers who gave us a glimpse of their experiences giving back to the profession. 

What does a typical day volunteering look like for you?  

Alice Zhao: The volunteering work for me spans across a long timeframe because it’s an ongoing commitment. The usual activities include planning and organising events and programs, regular committee meetings and progress catchups and attending events and panel sessions. Members work closely and collaboratively in the committees I’m involved with. 

Julian Zheng: A day of volunteering for me involves delivering speeches at events, attending various industry events and career expos and making sure I am bringing together a network of young engineers from diverse backgrounds. I also work on bringing young engineers’ viewpoints to the Board of Engineers Australia.  

Charlotte Thorpe: I'm in my first year on the Young Engineers Australia Queensland committee so I really love being involved in organising and attending networking events to help connect mentors and mentees in a casual environment. I have also been asked to be on a few panel discussions representing Engineers Australia. 

Jelena Coric: I am the deputy chair for the Young Engineers Australia committee in Canberra, so a typical day volunteering involves facilitating discussions, coming up with new ideas and providing support to fellow engineers. 

Sabastian Aurisano: I am a member of the Young Engineers Australia Victoria committee and I also volunteer with STEM VIC, which gives me the opportunity to talk to school children about engineering and why they should consider it as a career. 

What is the best piece of advice you can give an engineer considering volunteering? 

Alice: Before joining, think about your cause. Once you’re in, bring on your passion and focus on what you’re enthusiastic about. Also be mindful about the balance between commitments and time management and make sure you also value your own wellbeing while contributing to your cause as a volunteer. 

Julian: Individually, we can only do so much but collectively there is so much we can achieve. Volunteering for Engineers Australia enables like-minded people to gather and create positive impacts within our industry. Together we can build a stronger future. 

Charlotte: There are many avenues for volunteering, whether on a committee, mentoring or working in charity shops. Find something that is best suited to you. Many people choose to do engineering because they see it as a way to help people. It's not just about technical skills but also interpersonal skills, so even if you are young in your career volunteering is something you should consider.   

Jelena: Volunteering not only expands your professional network but also exposes you to new and enriching experiences. I say give it a shot. You won't regret the opportunities it brings. 

Sabastian: If you want to make a positive contribution to engineering outside of work, then don't delay and start volunteering today.