Priyani brings her fascination with engineering to education

"Understanding the convergence of engineering into the physical world captivated me from a young age. And always having a passion for maths, the more I looked into it, the more I knew this was the industry for me."

"Engineering challenges me to use equations to build structures that are fit for purpose. I can now look at a bridge and understand the math behind it."

Having been a professional engineer for 15 years, Priyani reached a point in her career where she wanted to inspire the next generation of professionals.

Joining TAFE Queensland to teach the Associate Degree in Civil Engineering (HED001), she's now training students in advanced technical qualifications to become engineering associates or consultants in various industries.

"Teaching is a great way to share my knowledge and skills with students, and it's incredible to watch them go from strength to strength as they put the theory into practice and learn along the way."

"Seeing students elevate in the classroom and performing in the industry gives me immense satisfaction. They are the sum of our efforts, and seeing them study, graduate and achieve amazing things in their careers is so fulfilling."

As a registered professional engineer (RPEQ) of Queensland, Priyani loves seeing designs come to life from the planning stage to the construction stage to being entirely built.

"Designing and building the Cobb+Co Museum in Toowoomba was a career highlight. Bringing the architect's vision to life to create engaging spaces while maintaining the history of the building was a great challenge. I'm so proud of what we achieved for the community; receiving an award was great."

The practical experience Priyani brings to the classroom translates into a hands-on learning environment for her students, where they use industry-standard equipment to become the engineers of tomorrow.

"As well as having access to industry-standard drafting software, students learn in a simulated environment and experience real-life situations, giving them exposure to engineering realities."

"For example, we use a model with a flume apparatus to showcase municipal engineering and road designs for stormwater design. The hydraulic structures show students how water flows in cities, what happens when there are obstructions and how to design environments that prevent flooding."

"Guest lecturers also visit our class to discuss their careers, the industry, interesting projects, the challenges they face and what to expect when students begin working."

"This environment helps students learn the skills they need, excel as students, and overcome any challenges they might face. Some students might struggle with math, but because the environment is so supportive, they get the help they need and graduate as competent engineers."

Rounding out her students' education is Priyani's industry connections, which see her link her students with future employers.

"Because of my industry connections through my consultancy, we have people from the industry visit the faculty and tell us what skills our students need. We then integrate their advice into the course to match the industry's requirements and help our students get jobs."

With the engineering industry thriving right now and a huge demand for graduates, Priyani encourages anyone considering becoming an engineer to study.

"This course is very practical with an industry focus, and after two and a half years, you'll graduate as an Engineering Associate with technical skills and knowledge."

"There are so many options as an engineer. You can continue your studies at university with credits from this course or start building the structures of tomorrow - it all starts here."