How did you come to work for Degnan?
I found Degnan through a job posting at my university. I applied online and sent in my resume and cover letter via email. After a brief period, I was contacted for an interview.
What do you do at Degnan? What are your roles and responsibilities like?
I am a full-time cadet engineer. I’m looking after the Bellambi and Dapto Station Upgrade jobs.
What are you studying at university?
I’m currently studying for a Bachelor of Civil Engineering.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is working in a diverse environment with many different people. Because I am a cadet, learning from those around me who have been in the industry for many years is beneficial. Working in a place where people have diverse life experiences helps me get a fresh perspective and approach tasks or challenges in ways that I otherwise wouldn’t.
I also value the fact that I am a trusted team member and am rewarded for my efforts. My responsibilities are constantly increasing, and it’s good to know that those around me acknowledge my work.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received from a colleague?
The best advice I’ve received from a colleague is simple, but it was said to me when I really needed to hear it. I was told to make sure I was realistically balancing my work, university and home life.
Sometimes my ambition can get in the way of my personal life. I’ll either push myself extra hard at work or spend excessive time in the uni library. I will forget to pause and breathe, and then my home suffers. Recently, I’ve been trying to make a little more time for myself and my fiancée.
Did you have any experience before coming to Degnan?
Before coming to Degnan, my only experience in construction was labour jobs. I never did any engineering work. Now that I’m at Degnan, I’ve acquired practical experience I never would’ve learned at university.
What was your job interview like?
There was a process of two rounds of interviews. My first interview was online with the Senior Project Manager, and the second was with the Project Manager and Senior Project Manager at head office.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I have graduated uni, hopefully as a Project Engineer or higher.
Beyond five years, hopefully, I would have started my own business.
What would you say to a student seeking an employment opportunity?
I would highly recommend talking to your careers department to any current students looking for employment in construction or engineering; there’s always job notices posted there. Talk to your Head of Students; there’s always something available.