We caught up with Hussain, a mechanical engineer who is currently in his third year of the Ausenco new professionals program (NPP) to learn about his experience on site, some key highlights and some advice for future graduates.
Tell us a bit about your role at Ausenco.
In my role as a mechanical engineer at Ausenco, I've been engaged in many diverse project aspects. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams, I've contributed significantly to feasibility studies, technical analyses, and detailed engineering tasks. This includes involvement in equipment selection, vendor interfacing, technical deliverables preparation, addressing client queries, and resolving any emerging issues. I particularly find joy in tasks involving pumps and hydraulic calculations.
Notably, the support and opportunities afforded to me, particularly during site roles as well as large copper design projects, have enabled me to demonstrate and further develop my skills. As a result, similar exciting opportunities have naturally gravitated towards me, allowing for more positive impact, continuous growth and professional fulfillment.
Describe your experience in the new professionals program, how are you finding it?
When I first entered this industry, I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about my future goal and responsibilities. However, I made the decision to trust the process and the structure of the new professional program. Fortunately, I found myself surrounded by supportive colleagues who were always willing to offer guidance and assistance. This supportive environment played a significant role in helping me navigate my career path. Additionally, the camaraderie among my fellow graduates was exceptional, and together we shared memorable experiences and successfully journeyed through the initial years.
Name some of the key highlights over the last three years.
From day one, I've been entrusted with big projects and surrounded by a supportive team. My strategy has been straightforward: absorb knowledge from the experienced colleagues and seize every chance for learning and development. This commitment to learning led to a remarkable milestone: securing a secondment with one of our clients at the largest gold mine in New South Wales. This ongoing experience has been the highlight of my career so far.
Thanks to the training I received in the office, I've seamlessly transferred my skills to the site, where I can readily understand processes, equipment, and troubleshoot any issues. This has empowered me to innovate and find efficient solutions, as demonstrated in a recent project involving the raw water network on site. Leveraging my experience from Ausenco, I conducted a comprehensive audit of the network, quickly identifying the root cause of water shortages in certain areas and proposing effective solutions. This experience highlights the value of the learning opportunities provided by Ausenco, which have not only enriched my professional growth but also enabled me to make tangible contributions in real-world scenarios.
What do you want to achieve in your career?
In my career, I'm motivated by solving tough technical problems. While in the new professionals' program, I want to tackle challenges in all areas of minerals processing plants, from crushing to tailings. This will help me become a skilled mechanical engineer who can lead teams to solve any problem on any project. Personally, I aim to specialise in a specific area, like slurry pumping or grinding, and innovate in that field. My preference might evolve but my goal is to keep learning and making a meaningful impact in the minerals processing industry.
What advice would you give to prospective students looking to apply for a graduate position?
I would emphasise the significance of making informed decisions. While no one expects you to have everything figured out from day one, it's crucial to start training yourself to do so. From my own experience, I've learned that cultivating curiosity, asking questions, and exploring various areas within your field are vital steps in honing this skill. By fostering a mindset of curiosity and actively seeking answers to questions, you expand your knowledge base. By exploring different facets of your field allows you to gain diverse perspectives and insights, ultimately enhancing your skill set and proficiency.
Applications for the 2025 New Professionals Program are closing soon. Apply now!
Learn more about Ausenco’s graduate program.