How did you get into engineering, and what brought you to Northrop?

Engineering wasn’t the game plan when I went to university. I was interested in climate change and science at school, so I started an environmental science degree at the University of Newcastle. About 18 months in, I realised I wanted something that involved more problem solving. I spoke to two environmental engineering lecturers, and they essentially said I could still go into the climate change and environmental field if I wanted to, but engineering would open more doors at the end. That led me to change degrees and eventually into civil engineering. After graduating, I joined Northrop’s Newcastle team.

How has your career developed since joining Northrop?

I started as a graduate in Newcastle and put my hand up for everything. I was a jack of all trades, so I learned everything. Around five years later, I had the opportunity to help establish the Civil team in Coffs Harbour. It was a leap of faith. There was plenty I didn’t know, so I learned on the run and relied on the relationships I had built with the Newcastle team for support. That opportunity ended up having a big impact on my career. I’m now an Associate and Group Manager in Coffs Harbour and have been able to help grow the Civil team here.

What have you enjoyed about the path your career has taken?

When I started, I expected to specialise in flooding and stormwater, but my career took a different path. Putting my hand up for varied opportunities gave me broad experience and opened doors I hadn’t anticipated. I’ve really enjoyed that variety civil engineering can lead in many directions.

What are you most proud of from your time at Northrop?

Starting the Civil team in Coffs Harbour is one of the things I’m most proud of. We have a great bunch of people, work on cool projects and have built an enjoyable office culture. The most rewarding thing has been seeing the junior engineers under me grow and become excellent engineers.

At Northrop’s recent 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner, you received the Murray Northrop Award, Northrop’s highest individual honour. What did that recognition mean to you?

It was awesome, and a shock honestly. Coming from the smallest office in Northrop, it’s not something I thought would be possible. The 50th made it extra special. To be recognised on a night celebrating all the amazing people who have built Northrop, and to be associated with some of the company legends of the past, is quite moving.