Senior Project Engineer
Name: Alex Palmer
Career stage: Mid-level - 5-10 years' experience
Working: On site, Office
High School Subjects: I completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) studying English (HL), Art (HL), Psychology (HL), Maths (SL), Chemistry (SL), Japanese (SL)
Favourite: Art - The IB art subject was very expansive with what kind of mediums you wanted to work with and explore. It incorporated graphics, vis comm, fine art, photography, etc. It gave me an opportunity to explore lots of different ideas and design spaces which I may not have previously been exposed to. Especially through one art stream.
Further study: Univeristy
where and what: I completed a double degree at Deakin University (Vic). Bachelor of Design (Architecture) & Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours)
"I am the link between the design, and the construction of the building in its final state."
the inside scoop…
What does a Senior Project Engineer actually do? I work on live project sites to help deliver the project safely, on time and to a budget. I ensure that the quality of the design is high and that the client is happy with the end result. Some of my tasks include reviewing architectural drawings and making sure these match with the other trades on site. I also ensure that the subcontractor on site is building the work to the quality we expect and within a timeline. I am the link between the design and the construction of the building in its final state.
What does a day in your life at work look like? I start my day in our site office. (This is usually located on the actual construction site or very close by). Typically, my morning includes going through emails regarding the design of the project and the clients' requests before heading out onto site. n site, I get to speak with the subcontractors (workers on site) and solve complex issues that sometimes cannot be solved before you start building. There is a lot of problem solving which goes into each day. It's exciting and keeps you on your toes. I then usually go back to the office, where I will continue to resolve any issues on site or design areas which are still under review. I often also take part in a lot of meetings. These include lots of different groups. Sometimes my meetings are with the client, talking about their expectations for the project. Then I have a meeting with the architects, to ensure their design meets the client's expectations and budget. Finally, I have meetings with the subcontractors to ensure that they are preparing to build what the designer has documented. It's a fast-paced job which is always changing. It's certainly hard to ever be bored!
What's the best part of your job? My favourite part is; at the end of a lot of planning you get to see your hard work as a solid structure that people can admire and see for many years to come. It is also a very collaborative job where you get to meet lots of great people.
What made you realise construction could be for you? I initially started university studying architecture after my love for buildings was further developed through my IB art subject in year 11 & 12. However, during my first year of university, I found that none of the architecture subjects made a lot of sense without the understanding of the construction of the building. I then moved to a double degree where I found many more opportunities within the industry. My Favourite part about this change was, that no longer was it just about creating, it was about building something in real life.
What's something that surprised you about working in construction? You are never just sitting at a desk. You get to go out on site, learn about a lot of different parts of building & construction. You get to interact with lots of different groups of people, and you're forever finding new challenges which you can problem solve. I love that no day is ever the same.
What do your friends and family think about working in construction? My friends and family think that my job is really interesting, I have been able to take some friends on a site visit in the past and they are always amazed to understand how something was made. There is a lot of innovation in construction that you don't often see from the outside.
Who has inspired you in your career? The other women in my field. I have been really lucky to be part of some amazing teams throughout my years in construction so far. When I am able to see women in roles senior to mine, It inspires me to learn from them and continue to try and be the best I can be.
Alex is open to engaging further via: Mentoring a student, Speaking at a high school
If you'd like to enquire more, please email hello@tomorrowswomeninconstruction.com.au with the subject: "Alex Palmer engagement enquiry" and we'll pass your message on.
