QLD Branch President Q&A
AITPM 2023/2024 Year in Focus
What do you do in your day job?
I lead the planning and advisory services for SMEC in QLD/NT, which includes strategic leadership, operational management, business development, tendering and delivering projects across Australia and globally.
I enjoy working with the large multidisciplinary team across SMEC to deliver city-shaping transport planning projects that have a positive impact on the future of our community.
How did you get into transport?
I originally had my heart set on structural engineering, however during the Global Financial Crisis (2007-2009), I diversified my skill set and discovered my passion for transport projects, particularly to be able to plan for the future of people movement and to help communities be more accessible and inclusive.
Why do you volunteer for AITPM and how did you first get involved?
AITPM has been on my radar since 2010, when I won the Queensland Young Professional Award and attended my first AITPM conference. The networking and technical development was fantastic and in 2018 I started volunteering on the Queensland Branch Committee. I volunteer now to enable our industry to continue to have networking and development opportunities, particularly for emerging professionals.
What advice would you have for others interested in volunteering with AITPM?
The opportunities that have opened to me from volunteering for AITPM have been fantastic, including huge growth in my professional network, development of my technical skills, and enabled me to attend several conferences. My position on the Board has been a highlight of my career, and I strongly recommend getting involved in AITPM if you can, as it really helps to accelerate your career.