Q&A: Monash Uni work placement students
Two Monash University students are feeling career ready after a three-month stint with IWN. Keerthi and Raymond recently finished work placements with us and before they left, we asked them a few questions.
WHAT ARE YOU STUDYING AT MONASH?
Keerthi: Professional Year Program ICT.
Raymond: I was studying a Master of Environmental Engineering (Water) at the University of Melbourne and Master of Civil Engineering (Water) at Monash University.
WHAT MADE YOU PUT YOUR HAND UP FOR A WORK PLACEMENT WITH IWN?
Keerthi: I always had a special interest in working with other disciplines along with IT. IWN has a focus on innovation and of course, technology. Plus: water is critical to the community, which is something I want to be involved with.
Raymond: IWN is known for adding value to Victorian water corporations, and I thought a good place where I could gain experience about the water industry before I start a career in it.
WHAT WERE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR IWN WORK PLACEMENT?
Raymond: I gained some experience in industry engagement and stakeholder management with Victorian water corporations. I conducted several projects on biosolids and resource recovery, including biosolids management and related challenges in Victoria, and annual production of biosolids. I was doing engineering research on the topic of biosolids used as activated carbon, and a review of activated carbon used in the water industry.
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN THE WATER SECTOR?
Keerthi: Yes, working in the water industry will give me an opportunity to contribute to the community in a meaningful way. My passion for the water industry means I will be a part of an evolving field, and will be able to be at the forefront of new and innovative projects.
Raymond: As a water engineer, to launch a career in the water sector has always been my interest. I hope I can start a position in a water corporation in the near future.
AND A WORD FROM US…
At IWN, we’re passionate about helping work placement students gain knowledge about the Victorian water industry. IWN Program Director Dean Barnett said it provided an opportunity to share information on a range of industry programs and technology.
“We also get the opportunity to see our work through the eyes of the next generation, who are yet to enter the sector,” Dean said. “Often they bring a perspective we haven’t considered.”