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Has your degree at La Trobe prepared you well for the workplace?

I found it great that the Electronics Engineering degree gave us the opportunity to specialise in various areas such as communications, electronic systems engineering and biomedical engineering.

The practical classes gave me the knowledge I required to work in Biomedical Engineering at the Royal Children’s Hospital and continues to help me in my current role at the Defence Material Organisation (Department of Defence).

At any point I was able to ask lecturers for advice on CV writing and interview techniques; this assisted me in getting my foot in the door.

Tell us a little about your work history

After graduating in April 2006 I worked in Biomedical Engineering in the Royal Children's Hospital where I provided a comprehensive range of technical and administrative services relating to the ongoing support of medical and laboratory equipment. On a regular basis I would repair equipment, carry out routine maintenance, safety and performance testing and acceptance testing. I also managed equipment recalls, investigated equipment related incidents and carried out electrical area testing and provided staff with acquisition and replacement advice. It was great to see the equipment that was tested or repaired being used to help treat patients. I was happy to be able to give something back to the community.

I am currently employed as a Project Systems Engineer at the Defence Materiel Organisation. The project I am currently working on procures medical, dental and laboratory equipment. My role is to write technical specifications, conduct technical evaluations and write risk assessments to ensure that the equipment is safe and fit for purpose. Sometimes issues may arise with the equipment once it is put into service; as the Project Systems Engineer it is my role to investigate the issue and determine a suitable solution. I always find myself transferring previous knowledge gained.

What advice can you offer to current students?

Talk to people, build up a network, apply for an industry cadetship. The more people in the industry you know, the more you learn, the further you will go in your career. There are plenty of opportunities out there, you just need to get your hands on them.

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