Dardenella combines structural and environmental engineering. She chats to us about the intersection of these two engineering fields and the importance of designing sustainable and resilient infrastructure.
What inspired you to study engineering?
I originally studied interior design and while I then considered architecture, engineering felt like the perfect blend of creativity and practical application. Civil engineering appealed to me because it's about building the infrastructure that shapes our communities, which will leave a lasting impact. There’s really something special about seeing a project come to life.
Why was it important for you to become an Engineers Australia volunteer and what did you get out of it?
Volunteering is a fantastic opportunity to develop my communication and leadership skills. I learned how to present information effectively, answer tough questions, network and engage with diverse audiences. It was rewarding to see the impact of my efforts and knowing I played a small role in helping others was very satisfying.
Can you tell us about what excited you about structural and environmental engineering?
Structural engineering excites me because it's about designing and analysing buildings and infrastructure. It's the challenge of ensuring structures are safe, efficient, high quality and resilient, especially in the face of an ever-changing environment. I love the problem-solving aspect and the physical results of seeing a project come to life.
Environmental engineering, on the other hand, is about sustainability and future proofing by design. It's about finding innovative solutions to environmental challenges such as water pollution, air pollution and waste management. The intersection of these two engineering fields is particularly exciting. Designing sustainable and resilient infrastructure is crucial for the future and I'm thrilled to be a part of that.
Since joining an engineering company my passion for construction engineering is undeniable and it is a driving force that has propelled me through challenging projects.
Balancing my engineering career with a new family can be particularly challenging but when working for a company that values work–life balance you can find the support you need.
What has been some of the best advice you have received as a young engineer and what advice do you have for others?
One of the best pieces of advice I received was to ‘keep an open mind’. Engineering is a constantly evolving field and you'll never stop learning. Be open to opportunities that arise even if they don’t fall in your idealistic field of engineering. Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, and admit when you don't know something. It's all part of the process.
My top five tips for other young engineers:
- Be proactive: don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Seek out projects that interest you, attend industry events and network with professionals.
- Develop your soft skills: technical skills are essential but building relationships, communication, teamwork and leadership are also important.
- Find a mentor: having someone to guide you and offer advice can make a huge difference in your career.
- Don't be afraid to fail: mistakes are inevitable but they're also valuable learning experiences.
- Stay passionate and remember why you chose engineering: it's a challenging but incredibly rewarding field. Keep your passion alive, and you'll go far.