Division of Information Technology, Engineering and the Environment
School of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering
School of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering
I have always been interested in machines and how they function and so it was only natural that I would be drawn towards engineering when it came time to further my studies. Having spent 10 years employed in IT undertaking several roles related to software and database development, I felt that the opportunity to study a degree that combined both my interests and skills would help me be a more rounded graduate.
During the degree at UniSA I have enjoyed the experiences I have gained in 3D CAD modelling and the chance to work with programming CNC machines. I have also enjoyed the numerous design projects we undertake each year. Surprisingly for me, one of the most enjoyable experiences was designing a low-tech, reduced cost, sustainable system to provide clean potable water for use in a developing nation.
In particular I think one of the biggest advantages of the UniSA program is the structure of the engineering programs, which in the early years provides students with the broad knowledge required by all disciplines and then allows the student to select a particular stream to specialise in based on what they then find they are interested in.
When I graduate I would like to pursue a career that will challenge me and push my problem solving abilities. My ultimate goal would be to be involved in designing and implementing machines and systems of the future that will be more environmentally sustainable than historical solutions.
Dominic Smart
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) & Bachelor of Information Technology
Doing the double degree with UniSA has given me the opportunity to diversify my skills in both technical and business related fields. I was attracted to this program because of the modern environment at the university and its reputation for being a practical-focussed university.
I found that the common first year allows for flexibility in changing engineering disciplines without delaying the completion of your qualification. It also broadens your engineering knowledge, which becomes useful when subjects later in your program start overlapping.
I really enjoyed the opportunity to work on assignments which aim to simulate industry-like projects. One example was the analysis of a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) propeller engine. Modelling software was used to observe the various stresses inflicted on the engine's components.
I have also really enjoyed the strong focus on group work, which promotes learning to work effectively as a team and building strong communication skills which are vital in the workforce.
When I graduate I hope to begin my careers as a junior engineer and later advance into a management role within the industry.
Justin Rapisarda
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) & Bachelor of Management
I chose to study Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering at UniSA because I think it’s the way of the future as there seem to be less purely mechanical or purely electrical systems or products being created. Being able to have a firm knowledge of the mechanical systems with a background of the electrical components gives the opportunity to combine these disciplines and create a system that works using both mechanical and electrical components.
I enjoy the fact that everything is in the one location for this degree. I also like the fact that the lecturers and tutors are really helpful and friendly and that there is an even amount of practical and theoretical components in each course.
The best part of the degree for me is the fact we have a lot of hands-on experience and practical work from week one of the degree. This means when I graduate and get out into industry I will have more than just theoretical knowledge.
When I do graduate I am hoping to move into defence technologies or continue my studies and get a PhD.
Maddy Gibbons
BBachelor of Engineering (Mechanical and Mechatronics)
I always wanted to be an engineer and so this program was my goal. I also wanted to complete it in one of the best Universities in Australia, another reason I chose UniSA was the environment and culture which I think helps to carves us into good human beings and that really matters for me.
The reputation of the University is high which motivates us to work hard and with the help and support of whole UniSA team, we are able to get a level of respect letting us represent our university anywhere in the world.
I would like to work as an engineer in the manufacturing industry and I would also like to work towards getting into the mining industry as my long-term goal. I’m also hoping to get the opportunity to take up an internship and gain some industrial experience because I think this would be a great boost and an awesome start in the field.
Sunil Ashokbhai
Bachelor of Technology (Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering)
The program offered me the opportunity to study an area of engineering where I would be challenged academically and also be given the chance to physically apply my obtained knowledge in a practical situation. UniSA's courses will educate you on the theory of the procedure and will then allow you to conduct the procedure in a practical, allowing you to visually observe the changes that occur. Study also provided many chances to conduct tasks where I could operate machinery to test physical alterations to elements. I undertook a vocational placement with Babcock and Brown Power, working in the Leigh Creek coal field within the Technical Support Department. Through my placement I encountered many challenges that aren't experienced in the classroom. This included discussing drawing specifications with metal fabricators, to undertaking requisition for new equipment. The placement demonstrated practical applications for the knowledge that had been gained and the role of an engineer within the organisation. Another highlight of my time studying would be the social experiences. UniSA supports its social groups, giving them the chance to create many events from simple BBQ's to a day of water-skiing.
Amanda Walton
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical and Advanced Manufacturing) - 2010 graduate
I have always been interested in physics, machinery, designing and the construction of components; as such the selection of mechanical engineering was a logical progression. Furthermore, I selected mechanical engineering as it has one of the broadest career possibilities throughout all the engineering disciplines enabling me to work in numerous industries both nationally and internationally.
UniSA combines theoretical knowledge with practical 'hands-on' teaching and is a system that rivals any Australian University course structure. I enjoyed the numerous practical aspects of my degree, including 12 weeks of industrial experience with the Department of Materiel Organisation in Melbourne where I worked on a tank camouflage system and conducted numerous mechanical and environmental tests of components. For my final year project I was a member of the UniSA Formula SAE team. This project has participants design, construct and compete with a small formula style race car against teams from other national and international Universities. This aided my professional development as it encompassed the full engineering life cycle from research through to construction and evaluation, a feat that few undergraduate projects include.
Apart from the actual undergraduate qualification, the engineering knowledge I have gained from my program enables me to optimally design components and processes. Additionally, through my studies I have learnt how to tackle problems and find suitable solutions utilising the most efficient methods and techniques.
Nathan Valente
Mechanical Engineer, Defence Materiel Organisation
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) and Bachelor of Management - 2010 graduate
I wanted to study in this program because it is related to my work and interests. The program has helped a lot in my job in terms of application and level of confidence. I chose to study at UniSA as it is an internationally recognised University and provided the most suitable study schedule for working personnel. The program has benefited me by bringing up my employability value and upgrading my knowledge.
Chong Kia Kong
Process Engineer, VDL Enabling Technologies Group
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical): Singapore - current student
This program is relevant to my work and only UniSA have this program. I have gained a lot of ideas of what mechanical and manufacturing engineering can be and this program has given me an in-depth understanding of all matters related to manufacturing. UniSA has a nice environment and the quality of teaching staff is very good. The knowledge I have gained from the program has benefited me in my employment as it allows me to know more about planning, plastic materials etc which helps in my daily performance at work.
Kiat (Mark) Boon Poh
Engineer, Welteq Industries Pte Ltd
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical): Singapore - current student
I undertook a good amount of work experience during my study at UniSA, including a project for the course Cases in Manufacturing and Technology Management. There was a series of career workshops organised by UniSA and after attending all five workshops I was successful in getting work experience at an engineering consulting company. It was short term work arranged by UniSA to get familiar with Australian work culture. I have also participated in industrial visits organised by UniSA in Oct-07. Once I got a good start in the direction of getting industrial experience I applied for volunteer work experience at OneSteel, Whyalla Steelworks. I have also undertaken a project at Built Environs Limited.
The work experience I have taken during my degree proved very valuable for me. The best result is that I had a job offer before completion of my final semester. I learnt how to get familiar with various situations and work environment plus how to develop my network. I understand the importance of work place safety. As a graduate engineer, the important thing is how much you want to learn. To achieve your goals a positive attitude towards lifelong learning is a must.
Ruchir Patel
Graduate Engineer, Leighton Contractors Pty Ltd
Master of Engineering (Manufacturing Management) - 2008 Graduate
