In our ‘day in the life’ blog series, we aim to showcase the work of our talented team and help you get to know the faces behind our projects a little better. This month, we sat down with Bryan Faustino, a Graduate Engineer in our Hunter office, to chat a bit more about the dynamics of his role and his best advice for anyone considering a career in the field.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what interested you in pursuing engineering.
I grew up in Central Luzon, Philippines, where I spent much of my childhood. After finishing university, I moved to Australia at the age of 23 to study for a Master’s in Engineering. Initially, I wanted to be an accountant, but my career path changed when I started helping with our family business. This experience opened my eyes to the world of engineering, and I decided to pursue it. It turned out to be a great decision, as I truly enjoy being an engineer. I love the challenge of problem-solving and the satisfaction of finding innovative solutions.
What does a typical workday look like for you, and what brings you the most enjoyment in your role?
A typical workday for me starts with getting a coffee to kickstart my day. I then read through my emails to catch up on any updates or important messages, followed by grabbing a second coffee. After that, I liaise with my team and/or subconsultants to discuss ongoing projects and any issues that need addressing. My day usually involves working on various projects or preparing tenders. What brings me the most enjoyment in my role is the problem-solving aspect, the opportunity to collaborate with my team to find innovative solutions, and the continuous learning of new things that keep me engaged and motivated.
What’s it like being part of Barker Ryan Stewart’s engineering team? Are there any standout projects you’re currently working on?
It’s fun being part of Barker Ryan Stewart’s engineering team. As a graduate engineer, I benefit greatly from the mentorship provided by experienced colleagues. This supportive environment helps me grow professionally and develop my skills. Additionally, the team culture is collaborative and inclusive, making it a great place to work. Currently, I’m involved in several exciting projects, particularly those that I have tendered for and am actively involved in. All of these projects stand out to me, each presenting different challenges and opportunities for growth. They provide me with valuable hands-on experience and the chance to contribute to meaningful work.
What’s been the most memorable aspect of working at Barker Ryan Stewart so far?
The most memorable aspect of working at Barker Ryan Stewart so far has been the annual conference. It was fun and exciting because I got to meet many colleagues from different offices face-to-face. This event provided a great opportunity to network and build stronger relationships within the company. Additionally, the quarterly office socials and BRS days have been fantastic.
Looking back at your career, is there anything that has surprised you about working in engineering?
Initially, I thought engineering was just about maths and technical problem-solving. Surprisingly, there’s a significant amount of report writing and management involved. I’ve learned that effective communication is crucial, whether it’s writing detailed reports, preparing presentations, or collaborating with team members and stakeholders. Additionally, project management skills are essential to ensure that projects are completed efficiently and meet all requirements. These aspects have broadened my understanding of engineering and made my work more dynamic and engaging.
Finally, what advice do you have for anyone considering a career in engineering?
My advice for anyone considering a career in engineering is to study hard and focus on subjects like maths and physics, as they form the foundation of engineering principles. Additionally, don’t underestimate the importance of communication skills. Engineering involves a lot of report writing and presenting your ideas clearly to others. Developing strong writing and management skills will be invaluable in your career.
