Rakhi Mahbuba Graduate Structural Engineer in Mining and Minerals Australia at Wood

How did you get in to the Oil and Gas industry, was this always the industry for you?

I have been working in the industry as a structural engineer for a little more than a year and I think it is worthwhile talking about the beginning.

When I was young, probably 7 or 8, I always used to tell my parents I want to be a pilot because I was so fascinated by the big aircrafts, and the journey in the airplane, and travelling the world for my job seemed to be the most amazing thing at that time but things changed later on. In school I was a straight ‘A’ student and continuously stood 1st place from 6th grade. I loved science subjects the most. My love for physics and mathematics sparked the thought of seeing engineering as a career option. Growing up in a developing country, in areas of appreciable urban expansion, I accumulated strong interest towards civil engineering and was always wowed by the tall buildings and bridges and wanted to know more in depth of how those were build. But things started taking different direction when I won the beauty pageant ‘Lux Channel I Superstar 2010’ in Bangladesh. Although I was working as a professional actress, model and host, I still cherished the dream of being an Engineer. So when I finished my A levels I moved to Australia in July 2013 and completed Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) with a first class Honours from Edith Cowan University in Perth, Western Australia in December 2017.

While approaching graduation, I was applying for jobs for structural engineer position in very selective companies and Wood (who provides services mainly to oil, gas and mining industry) really caught my attention and I was incredibly fortunate to secure the only graduate structural engineer position at that time. Now working in the industry I really forward to the bright future.

What has been the high point of your career so far?

There would be a few to mention. Because every new day is an exciting day for me. Some highlights would include my first ever mine site visit in Gruyere Gold mine in September 2018. It was absolutely fascinating seeing all those structures in real life which I have been seeing in the model. It was a great learning experience. Another highlight was when I celebrated my one year anniversary at work in December 2018 which made me feel like, yes I can do this!

Have you had to face any challenges?

Although it is still male-dominated field and I am the only female structural engineer in the team, I never faced any discrimination or challenge, rather felt inclusive. I have such an extraordinary, supportive manager/mentor and colleagues, who help me grow every single day and I am tremendously grateful for this. The only challenge I faced, I would say, was the huge learning curve I had go through in the beginning and the transition from university to work-life. It took mea while to get used to the 9 to 5 job routine.

Tell us about your work with Women in Engineering?

I feel empowered, when I empower other women.

When I was in university I constantly exposed myself to various volunteering opportunities. I volunteered as a general committee member, then as a secretary and finally as a vice president for the Women in Engineering Club at Edith Cowan university (WIEECU).

As part of my role I was involved - along with the administrative duties - in arranging events and campaigns focused on inspiring women and developing them for the future career.

The thing that kept me motivated to volunteer relentlessly was knowing that I was inspiring so many young women, touching their hearts and kindling confidence for studying in STEMM (Science, Technology, Mathematics and Medicine).

What personal attributes have helped you progress in your career?

I would like to answer that very simply- determination, dedication, enthusiasm and an eagerness to learn and grow every day.

Is there anything you would like to see change in the industry?

I think the industry has progressed quite a lot and has become truly inclusive. I would like to see more female leaders in the engineering industry in lead or principal or managerial roles, which would enthuse and inspire more women to be involved in this industry.

What would be your advice to other graduates looking to get in to the industry?

Be proactive. Start going to networking events and making connections now. Do not wait until you graduate and then start looking for jobs. The market is really competitive. To stand out, you must put the extra effort in your personal development which can come from volunteering, doing some short course, internship, getting certificates in some qualifications/ safety course etc. Attend as many career information events as possible. Be a member of the professional bodies. For example, if you are an engineer in Australia, become a member of Engineers Australia. Stay in touch with your lecturers and peers. Always ask questions and never stop learning if you want to grow.