Quick Chat with a newly admitted Fellow Wednesday, 01 March 2017

Quick Chat with Catherine Colman FIEAust CPEng NER

Catherine Colman has 15 years’ experience in systems and software engineering in the Defence sector, ten years of which were in the tactical data link field. Catherine’s professional experience covers a variety of engineering and leadership roles, including Software Developer, Chief Engineer and Director. Catherine studied her Bachelor of Engineering at the University of Newcastle and later completed a Masters in Science through UNSW Canberra. She was part of the Women in Engineering team awarded at the Australian Engineering Excellence Awards Canberra 2007 for their work on the ‘Girl Talk’ program. Catherine was admitted as a Fellow of Engineers Australia last year.

What is your current job title and function?

I recently joined the team at Relken Engineering as a Consultant. Relken specialise in reliability engineering, but my current role is project management.

Why did you choose engineering as a profession?

I have always been artistic and enjoyed the creativity of programming when I was at high school.

What are you working on now?

I am working on a project with the Royal Australian Navy to establish a naval engineering program controls office.

What is the most challenging or interesting project you've ever worked on?

One of the most interesting experiences of my career was working on the NATO Message Text Format Working Group. The cultural exchange was fascinating.

What do you see as one of the biggest issues facing the engineering profession?

I find the rate of technological change and innovation incredible. I know a challenge for me, and I think for many of us, is keeping informed of new ideas and technology so we remain relevant and don’t miss opportunities.

What is your favourite TV show?

It’s a close call between Star Trek Voyager and Doctor Who.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you like to have with you?

Food, water and good company!

What was the last movie you went to see?

Star Wars Rogue One.

What makes you laugh?

Top Gear. I don’t watch it often, but when I do I laugh hysterically.

What is your favourite quote?

“Sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”

What is the best piece of advice your parents gave you?

Before exams, my dad would always say “read the question carefully.” I hear his voice in my head whenever I catch myself jumping to the solution before I fully understand the problem.

What inspires you?

Other people inspire me. I find my best ideas are usually formed through talking with other people.

If you could take a year off to study anything, what would it be?

I’d finish the course in astronomy that I started last year.

What are your hobbies?

Playing hockey and raising my daughter – although I guess kids are a lot more than a hobby!

How do you achieve work/life balance?

I couldn’t say that I have mastered a work/life balance. Having a young family means I leave the office on time and I try not to take work home, which are a good start. Relken also has a flexible work culture which helps a lot.

Image: Catherine Colman FIEAust CPEng NER.