Western Australia Division Candidate Statements

Monday 3 September 2018 to Friday 28 September 2018

Note: Nominees are listed in the order that they appear on the Ballot Paper.

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John CHAPPELL

John CHAPPELL

MIEAust CPEng NER

I’m putting my hand up to represent engineers in Western Australia on the Divisional Committee. I have a wealth of local experience in engineering here in Western Australia and understand its unique and challenging environment. My personal beliefs revolve around safety in design, as well as diversity in engineering. My roles currently include Senior Mechanical Engineer at WSP, Chairman of Young Engineers Australia (YEAWA) and Secretary of the Mechanical Committee in WA.

Given the opportunity, I will build on the divisional committee’s previous work and encourage focus on Engineers Australia’s strategic goals for EA and its members. To that end I intend to encourage the delivery of more innovative events designed to provide insight for EA members so they can recognise and secure their engineering futures.

Methods of delivery of events as in the past will be cross collaboration with industry; partnerships; and advocacy of engineering, education, inclusion and diversity. I have previously addressed many of these issues through my involvement in YEAWA and the Mechanical Committee, organising events such as Safety in Design with the Department of Industry Regulation and Safety; Young Engineers Australia Summits on Innovation and Disruption; and Further Education in Engineering with Universities. I have also been involved in Cross industry engagement groups (Emerging Built Environment), implementing 50% diversity KPI’s in committees and volunteering at numerous engineering events to advocate engineering.

Given my familiarity with the existing systems in place, if nominated I would utilise this knowledge to continue promoting the engineering community. I want to help transition a traditional engineering profession into the future while recognising our heritage and leaving a legacy in what we create and contribute. I intend to achieve this by obtaining sponsors; promoting modern and relevant topics; engaging actively across all industries; fostering awareness of the importance of good engineering; and promotion of the EA code of ethics to existing members.

Engineering to me is more than just a job — it’s a social responsibility to achieve more, and provide new and improved ways to deliver higher standards to our society. What gives me the greatest pride is seeing individuals exceed their potential, learning something new and being part of a community of engineers and professionals striving to a common goal. Joining the WA Divisional Committee is my next step in being part of building an engineering community everyone can contribute to and be proud of.

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.

Andrei ROTARU

Andrei ROTARU

MIEAust CPEng NER

Dear colleagues and fellow Engineers Australia members, I am nominating for a position on the WA Division Committee because I would like to use my knowledge, experience and values to make a positive impact in our local engineering community.

I have a diverse engineering experience having worked in the resources sector, marine engineering, design consulting for residential and commercial structures and most recently managing complex government projects. Engineers Australia has been part of my professional journey for almost a decade and has provided many wonderful opportunities to learn, to network, to volunteer and to grow.

In this disruptive environment engineers play a crucial role in shaping the future and I believe Engineers Australia provides a great platform for our collective actions to make an impact.

I am committed to a collaborative and cooperative approach so that this Committee continues to raise the bar in serving and advocating for the engineering community in WA.

I will leverage on my previous volunteering experience with The St Vincent de Paul Society, Homeless Connect and Engineers Australia via EngQuest and if elected, it will be an honour to play an integral role for the benefit of the engineering community in WA.

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.

Robert WILLIAMSON

Robert WILLIAMSON

AFIEAust CEngA EngExec NER IntETn(Aus)

Robert Williamson is a Chartered Engineering Associate, Fellowand Engineering Executive of Engineers Australia. Robert is also a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Robert has been active on Engineers Australia boards for over 15 years, having sat of the WA Division Committee, ITEE College Board, NCEAA and NERB. Robert was part of the coordination group for the Year of the Engineering team and is currently involved with the rationalisation of EA Special Interest Groups. As such Robert will become Chair of the NCEAT from 2018.

Robert has received several engineering and ICT industry awards. Robert’s personal awards include the Engineers Australia National Presidents Prize Winner in 2003, EA Australian Engineering Associate of the Year in 2002, and EA WA Engineering Heroes Award Winner in 2001.

Robert Williamson is CEO of Red River Group and Executive Advisor China for the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) Australia. Robert has fostered AMEC’s China relationships in Government, Finance and Industry, and has led several delegations to China promoting investment in mining and technologies, and is active in assisting Chinese Customs (CIQ) with introducing the latest mineral assaying technologies. After a career of 22 years with Riotinto and then General Manager at Snowden Mining Consultants, Robert formed Red River Group in 2012 with a firm vision for trade with China in Mining.

Robert is an Executive Committee member of Australia China Business Council (ACBC) in WA and is Deputy Chair of the ACBC Resources sub-committee. Robert also sits on the Board of the China International Mining Cooperation Committee under the management of China Ministry of Commerce.

Robert has a passion to promote engineering in the community and in the international arena.

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.

Douglas BRUCE

Douglas BRUCE

FIEAust CPEng EngExec NER APEC Engineer IntPE(Aus)

I am a pragmatic engineering professional with over 28 years' experience in both the public and private sectors with a passion for doing things smarter and more efficiently.

My early career saw me based in local government for nine years in Scotland before I moved to the private sector for 12 years. I then returned to local government and have been with the City of Swan for over eight years. As the Manager - Project Management, I lead a team of professional engineers, architects, civil designers and landscape architects, delivering the City's $60M (2018/19) capital works program.

In August 2017 I achieved Engineering Executive (EngExec) status as well as becoming a Fellow. I believe I have much to offer the WA Division Committee, particularly in terms of financial management and oversight, and project delivery. I have a personal commitment to the concept of lifelong learning however my passion is local government and its promotion – it has so much to offer engineers at all stages of their career.

Local government is often like a juggernaut; once a bearing and speed are set it is very difficult to change direction. Whilst this is not the case at every local authority, there exists, broadly, a need for local authorities to become more agile and evolve as organisations so we can better support growth and capacity building within our communities.

This also extends to re-evaluating how the personal and professional development of our engineers takes place – a role that Engineers Australia, the WA Committee and its members are a critical part of, where the pace of technological change only appears to be increasing. I am particularly passionate about promoting local government as a career path for graduate engineers – local government offers a wide and hugely varied opportunity. The day to day challenges I face still require engineering problem solving skills (albeit on a smaller scale than some projects in northern WA), liaison and coordination with a multitude of stakeholders who all have competing interests and then designing solutions in a resource constrained environment.

I started my career as a graduate engineer with no computer, no mobile phone and a “googol” was a very large number (“Google” it!). Local government officers now interact with their customers using social media and the expectations of how we interact with our community continue to change rapidly. Many of our customers now expect almost instantaneous interaction over the internet, and that each employee of a local authority will provide them with a consistent high level of service – regardless of their specific role.

Where will we be in another five, ten or 20 years? How will we deal with Millennials? As a Committee Member, I want to help face that challenge head on by using my experience and strengths to drive the strategic direction of Engineers Australia in WA and the role it plays in supporting its members, to position our sector to best be able to meet these future challenges and opportunities - both as an organisation and individuals.

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.

Brian HAGGERTY

Brian HAGGERTY

FIEAust CPEng NER APEC Engineer IntPE(Aus)

After being elected to the WA Division Committee in 2016 Brian set up and leads the Committee’s Digital Working Group, is a member of the Student Practicum Working Group and is a substantial contributor to the Committee.

He graduated from the University of Western Australia in 1976 with a Bachelor of Engineering (1st Hons), subsequently Master of Engineering Science (UWA) and MBA (Deakin).

Worked in the resources industry (40 years) with BHP, Shell and Woodside with experience with development projects, operations, technology and innovation, business development and strategy both in Australia and internationally. In his position as Woodside’s VP Innovation Capability with responsibility for the sustainability of Woodside’s innovation capability.

He is currently on secondment to Faculty of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences at University of Western Australia filling the position of Associate Dean (Community and Engagement). He has responsibility for university/industry engagement, the EZONE UWA Student Hub development and sits on the Faculty Inclusion and Diversity Committee.

Previously Brian has had responsibility for Woodside’s technology and data science programme (VP Technology) and LNG developments (VP LNG Development). He has had 10 years’ international experience with Royal Dutch Shell on LNG and gas to liquids developments while based in Europe and the Middle East.

Brian has been based in the Pilbara on three separate assignments in iron ore and oil and gas and has an appreciation of regional engineering practice and the needs of engineers in those locations.

Apart from Engineers Australia (Chartered since 1980), he is a member of Society of Petroleum Engineers, American Society of Civil Engineers and Graduate of Australian Institute of Company Directors, Hydrogen Society of Australia, amongst others.

Brian is passionate about the role of engineers and the engineering profession in the post resources boom innovation-driven economy in Western Australia. He is on committees and task forces supporting the development of innovation strategies.

Currently has positions on Australian Engineering Excellence Awards Judging Panel. He has a position on the Program Committee for International LNG 2019 conference to be held in Beijing in April 2019. Member of the John Monash Scholars Selection Panel and past chair of the WA Division Structures Panel.

Brian brings to the committee an active link to industry, universities and government. He will drive innovation in the profession and bring governance experience. Other interests include sailing (racing and cruising), cycling, music and theatre.

linkedin.com/in/bchaggerty.

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.

Maneesh GUPTA

Maneesh GUPTA

FIEAust CPEng NER APEC Engineer IntPE(Aus)

If you think that someone with the following attributes is worthy of your vote, please vote for me:

  • Committed to the profession of engineering and its nurture, promotion and advancement for the benefit of the communities
  • An advocate of engineers and engineering profession in a wide variety of forums- professional, political, social and government
  • Have demonstrated track record of leading voluntary activities within and outside of Engineers Australia at local, state and national level
  • Someone who is a combination of experience and energy, confidence and humility, big picture and detail and global experience and local knowledge.
  • Someone who is truly passionate about helping the engineering fraternity in true sense.

Hello dear fellow EA members. My name is Maneesh Gupta and I am seeking to serve the WA Divisional Committee of Engineers Australia.

Here is a bit of my story. I migrated to Australia in November 2007, after working for 16 years on different in the rail and civil engineering industry in India and SE Asia. I became member of Engineers Australia in 2008, achieved Chartered status in 2009 and was awarded Fellow Membership status (FIEAust) in 2016.

My current role is Technical Director, at AECOM Perth. Throughout my career, I have been involved in a wide variety of civil infrastructure projects ranging from business cases, feasibility studies, design and engineering, construction, operation and maintenance as well as consulting and advice to independent institutions and government regulators.

I have been an active committee member of the WA Chapter of Railway Technical Society of Australasia since 2008. I took over as the WA Chapter Secretary in 2011 and continuously served in this role till being elevated as the WA Chapter Chair in 2015, the position I hold at present. In addition, I was elected as the Australasian Deputy Chair of the Society in March 2018.

I have served on the WA Divisional Committee as an elected member during 2016-18. During my tenure, I contributed to the ongoing agenda relating to member engagement, CPD, student practicum and building relationship across various technical societies.

Here are some of the highlights of some of my voluntary my professional

  • Delivered technical presentations on a wide variety of engineering topics including formal training courses in Symposia/Conferences/events.
  • Provided ‘on the job training’ and mentored colleagues
  • Led university recruitment events in all major universities of WA.
  • Organized technical presentations as Chair of WA RTSA.
  • Delivered lectures in various universities in Perth to raise awareness about careers in engineering.
  • Organised annual dinner, including securing a distinguished guest speaker (such as industry leader or Government Minister).

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.

Graeme ROOKE

Graeme ROOKE

FIEAust CPEng

AFFILIATIONS:

Fellow Member Institution of Engineers Australia - FIE (Aust.) Charted Professional Engineer - CP Eng.
Registered Professional Engineer Queensland – RPEQ

Past positions:

IEAust.: Leadership & Management College Qld.
Non Executive Director - American Chamber of Commerce Aust. (AMCHam) National Board
Chairman and Director of AMCham Governors WA

EXPERIENCE:

Graeme Rooke is a professional engineer and business leader with postgraduate business management qualifications and 30+ years broad industry experience ranging from oil and gas, mining and minerals, power generation, to defence and rail. He has a track record of successful delivery of major resource, industrial and infrastructure projects in conjunction with business, community and government stakeholders in Australia and internationally.

His experience in corporate leadership and strategic management over the last 20 years has seen him report either directly to the chairman or managing director in most roles. These positions have considerable responsibility and accountability for the business performance and P&L position of the companies. In each case the positions are results focused and KPI based.

Work History:

Current Business Growth & Development Manager - CPC Engineering
Previous Director IntegratedS ervices - Ausgroup-AGC
General Manager - Matrix Offshore Engineering & Services
Executive General Manager - Downer EDI
Director Energy Business Sector; Associate & Shareholder; Director Project & Construction Management, - HATCH

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.

Amanda PEARCE

Amanda PEARCE

MIEAust CPEng NER

Amanda is a Chartered Professional Engineer, with over 10 years’ experience in Australian and New Zealand.

Amanda graduated from the University of Western Australia with a Bachelor of Engineering – Civil, with Honours and started work with Aurecon as a structural engineer.

She was a key member of the structural design team for the iconic Perth Arena and has spent time in Christchurch working on the rebuilding works following the devastating Canterbury earthquakes. Since returning to Perth she has taken on the role of Portfolio Lead for Aurecon for the Department of Defence Program Delivery Services.

Amanda was awarded the Young Professional Engineer of the Year (Western Australia) by Engineers Australia in 2016. Amanda was also an award winner at the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Crystal Vision Awards for Excellence, WA Chapter, in 2013. Amanda is a current member of the Engineers Australia Division Committee WA, and the Property Council Future Directions Committee.

Amanda’s passion within the engineering industry is helping to encourage and develop the next generation of engineers; especially females, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. She notes that she would not be here today if it weren’t for industry professionals making the time to visit her school, and hopes she can give someone else that same opportunity. She does so by volunteering to visit schools to educate and excite students about engineering, and also volunteering at numerous events aimed at encouraging students to have an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects.

Amanda is a current member of the Engineers Australia Division Committee for Western Australia, and is hoping to extend her place on the committee for another 2 years. She is a strong believer that diversity of thought brings better and more innovative solutions, and hopes to continue to bring different point of view to the committee.

She is a well-practiced public speaker who is happy to speak up on behalf of EA when needed. Her involvement in various programs and events with Engineers Australia and other societies, allows her to understand a wide range of points of views, and to try to understand the issues that face engineers across our industries.

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.

David WILKINS

David WILKINS

TMIEAust

David Wilkins has over 35 years of practical experience in traffic engineering, road safety and transport planning in both the UK and Australia and is an RTA NSW Certified Level 3 Lead Auditor (RSA-08-0178) and Main Roads Western Australia (MRWA) accredited Senior Road Safety Auditor (SRSA 0101).

In addition to this, David is an MRWA accredited Crash Investigation Team Leader and Roadworks Traffic Manager (MRWA- RTM-10-RTM20). David has undertaken 99 road safety audits in the last five years and 228 road safety audits since 2001 across the full range of stages from feasibility through to pre-opening, including roadworks, existing roads, schools and mine sites.

David's specialist skills are in the management and development of transport infrastructure and planning, particularly with respect to road safety engineering, roadworks traffic management, traffic engineering, crash investigation, road safety audits, alternative transport systems (TravelSmart, shared paths, cycle facilities), transport statements, transport assessments, parking demand management, local area traffic management, speed management, accessible environments and innovation.

David specialises in undertaking and preparing traffic impact assessments in accordance with either the WAPC document ‘Transport Impact Assessment Guidelines’ or Austroads ‘Guide to Traffic Management Part 12: Traffic Impacts of Developments’.

In the last 7 years, David has personally prepared over 165 traffic and transport impact reports in accordance with these guidelines.

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.

Pratik SHRESTHA

Pratik SHRESTHA

MIEAust CPEng NER

I graduated from University of Auckland with a Bachelors of Civil Engineering (First Class Honours) in 2009.

I have been in the engineering industry for the past 9 years. Over the past years, I have been fortunate enough to work on some world class and eminent engineering projects. The highlight of my career has to be my involvement on the Perth Children’s Hospital as the Lead Structural Engineer, which opened earlier this year.

Over the span of my career, my central focus has always been achieving engineering excellence, and upholding the engineering profession at the highest regard. I have been a strong advocate of the engineering industry.

In order to keep this advocacy alive, I have been a firm believer of mentoring. I am actively mentoring 4 staff members within Aurecon, and a student of Curtin University Engineering School. I believe the best way for me to become an advocate of the engineering industry is to pass on my knowledge and experience to the younger generation.

During my career, I have had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of engineering projects with a range of complexities. I have experience in concrete, through to steel, through to timber. My main area of focus has been in Seismic Engineering.

Within Aurecon, I currently hold a Project Leadership role in the structural team. I have successfully lead numerous global engineering projects, and steered the project team through the complex nature of project delivery. At Aurecon, I am also part of the i40 team, which consists of the most innovative members of staff within all of Aurecon.

I am also a strong advocate of digital engineering. I have upskilled myself in REVIT, as well as introducing VR and AR into my projects. Recently I have been driving engineering automation by utilising the interoperability capability of REVIT with analysis software such as ETABS. Using this, we were able to save a large proportion of time which would otherwise had been spent drawing models. By doing so, we were able to automate this engineering process, allowing us to spend more time with clients.

Although I have not currently or in the past held an office bearer post in Engineers Australia, what I lack in experience, I make up for in enthusiasm and positive energy. If elected, I am committed to working actively with the other committee members in successfully upholding the charter of this committee and Engineers Australia. I have also been actively attending Engineers Australia events, and have been involved in two Engineers Australia CPEng interviews as part of the expert Panel.

I believe the above summaries my capabilities and beliefs quite well. I look forward to serving with Engineers Australia.

Candidate Disclaimer: The view represented in this statement is that of the Candidate and not Engineers Australia.