The engineering and construction sector plays a vital role in supporting the design and implementation of much of the infrastructure we rely on every day. Our roads, buildings, electricity generation, transmission and distribution, heavy industries, innovative design, and the creation of liveable spaces and parks are just a few examples.

The state’s engineering talents were recently on display at the Engineers Australia’s Australian Engineering Excellence Awards for Tasmania.

2016 winners were:

• Tasmanian Engineering Distinction Award – Internet of Stings by Data61, CSIRO

• Buildings and Structures Award – UTAS Inveresk Residences by Aldanmark Consulting Engineers

• Control Systems, Networks, Information Processing and Telecommunications Award – Meander Dam Integrated Water Management System by Entura with Tasmanian Irrigation Pty Ltd and Water Solutions

• Environment Award – Internet of Stings by Data61, CSIRO

• Innovation, Research and Development Award – Internet of Stings by Data61, CSIRO

• Products and Manufacturing Facilities Award – Exoskeleton Offshore Sea Cages for the Aquaculture Industry by Howarth Fisher & Associates with The PFG Group

• Project Infrastructure Award – Rowallan Dam Upgrade Project by Hydro Tasmania

• Tasmanian Young Professional Engineer of the Year – Mathew Brooks MIEAust CPEng NER

• Tasmanian Professional Engineer of the Year – Keith Midson FIEAust CPEng NER

There is an increased demand for civil engineering professionals in Tasmania reflecting the large number of major infrastructure projects underway and planned in the state. These include

• the 10-year plan to upgrade the Midland highway
• the Royal Hobart Hospital redevelopment
• the Liveable Cities Devonport project
• the Hobart International Airport expansion
• the University of Tasmania’s revitalisation projects across the state
• the Tasmanian Irrigation Scheme.

Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows that in Tasmania, the industry sectors with the highest engineer employment rates are consulting and professional services; manufacturing, electricity, water and waste, public administration and construction.

There is currently a need for civil and structural engineers, engineering technologists, civil engineering draftspersons, civil engineering technicians, and construction project managers in Tasmania.

The professional development, support and networking of engineers in Tasmania is led by the Tasmanian Division of Engineers Australia. Established in 1918 and based in Hobart, the division has approximately 1 300 members and runs events and activities throughout the year.

Projects identified through its workforce planning are being led by Engineers Australia’s Tasmania General Manager, Dr Vicki Gardiner and seeks to support Tasmanian engineers to operate effectively within global supply chains.

“The Tasmanian engineering profession is now competing, collaborating and supplying services to an international field,” Dr Gardiner highlighted.

“This impacts on the skill set needed for engineers to survive and thrive in this market place.”

If you are an engineer and are looking for a skilled employment opportunity coupled with an enviable lifestyle, a great place to start is the Engineering Australia (Tasmania) website. There you will find news, details of events and contact details including the three regional group committees.

For details of where to find positions advertised, take a look at our article on finding your next job in Tasmania.