Photo caption: Felicity Wall MIEAust CPEng, Engineers Australia Alice Spring Regional Group.
A group of engineering professionals, led by Felicity Wall in Alice Springs has teamed up to support each other and provide a network for engineers living and working in the Alice Springs region. The group aims to promote CPD events, promote the profession of engineers and encourage younger people to consider a career in engineering.
Engineers Australia interviews Felicity to find out how all this came about and what the team’s plans are for the future.
Q. So Felicity, what’s happening in Alice Springs at the moment?
A. There are lots of diverse projects happening in and around Alice Springs ranging from renewable energy, water and road construction projects. Currently I’m working at the Central Land Council; I’ve got several commercial and residential construction projects underway. Some of these are in remote locations which require me to adopt slightly different delivery models because of the various remote issues. Working as a regional engineer often requires you to adopt a more flexible style for project delivery, whilst ensuring value for money and quality of the project are not compromised.
Q. Why have you and your colleagues decided to meet every month?
A. It is important to have a representative group because we can share ideas and support each other, and network with one another - especially useful when we need engineers from different disciplines so we know who to contact.
We also hope to encourage engineers to become recognised professionals through the Engineers Australia benchmark of Chartered, and promote engineering in the community and schools.
Q. How would you describe your experience working in the Territory?
A. I moved to Alice Springs from Brisbane just over 5 years ago. I’ve found the work very variable and challenging. I think that particularly the challenges lie around a skilled workforce and remoteness. As a regional engineer you need to be confident in your decision making and problem solving but not arrogant – it’s a fine balance.
Q. What do you see being the key issues and opportunities in Alice in the future?
A. Major issues for the community include water resources and management of these resources; ongoing projects and opportunities for engineers.
Q. One last question, how can those people in the region get in touch?
A. Enquiries are most welcome to [email protected]
For more information about regional groups in the Territory, visit the Engineers Australia Northern Division page.