Relocating to Australia as an Engineer
Ayran is a self-described ‘foodie’ who enjoys trying out new food and restaurants. She’s relocated to Australia from the Philippines and is a structural engineer with HK Solutions, as well as taking on roles as a safety officer and being a member of the social club committee. We asked Ayran some questions about transitioning from working in her home country to working in Australia.
Tell us about your studies and early career.
My dad took up engineering when he was younger, which inspired me to take it up as well.
I studied civil engineering with specialisation in structural engineering in Manila, Philippines.
I started as a graduate structural engineer in Manila, and I worked there for five years and Piers (Structures Coord for QLD/VIC at HK Solutions) was actually my very first manager or boss.
I then moved to Taiwan and lived there for three years before going to Australia.
Why did you decide to move to Australia?
I moved to Australia because I was looking for a change of scenery, or perhaps a different way of life than what I was used to. My friends who live here spoke about what their lives have been like here, so it was something I wanted to try for myself.
How did you join us at HK Solutions?
Initially, I planned to go on a working holiday in Australia to visit my friends and see some sights. Then an opportunity came up when Piers reached out; he heard I was coming to Australia and HK Solutions was coincidentally looking for a structural engineer. We did an online interview and then after that, I was offered a job. The rest is history.
Was it difficult to adapt to an overseas work culture?
I wouldn't say it was difficult, but it was quite different. One thing that I did have to learn was the Aussie lingo because I'm more used to the American language. Another difference in work culture compared to Asia is work-life balance. That's one huge thing that my friends (former colleagues) and I have talked about.
Communication is quite open here as well. Regardless of work seniority, I feel that I can speak up and raise issues if needed. When you work overseas, almost everything is new and you just learn to adapt to changes along the way.
Not just work wise, but as an individual, you grow as you navigate through an unfamiliar place.
So you also get to learn new methods and concepts of doing things that you're not used to back home. For example, labour is more expensive here, so things are done differently. Whereas in the Philippines, it's actually the opposite.
I have to say that adapting to an overseas work culture, specifically here in Australia, was made easier because people have been very welcoming and helpful.
What do you like about working with HK Solutions?
Ayran office exchange with the Darwin structural team
One of the things that I like about working in HKS would be the people that I work with. They have been very warm, open, and helpful from the very beginning. Within HKS, there are different cultures that we embrace, just like when we held an event and celebrated Harmony Week.
Work is also flexible, and people are understanding of each other's situations as well.
I feel that there's a sense of community and connection that's encouraged here.
I also feel like everybody has a voice within the company.
What are your favourite things to do in Australia?
Travelling to different places, there's just so much to see in Australia! I like going on walks, having picnics with friends, and going to the beach during summer.
One of the things I’ve also grown to like in Australia is camping and hiking, walking along the trails and looking at wildlife just because I feel like nature is everywhere here. I've also enjoyed visiting zoos and Wildlife Conservation parks.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I see myself settling down here, preferably in Victoria, although I’m open to other opportunities. I'm enjoying my life here in Australia and plan to continue working as an engineer, hopefully with more knowledge and experience in the future.
What advice do you have for people who are thinking of moving to Australia to work as an engineer?
Kicking back with director Elisha
I find that local experience here is very important just because the way that things are done here are a little bit different than elsewhere.
So I would advise them to expose themselves to projects that are local here, read up on Australian codes, and even watch YouTube videos of how things are done here. Just be proactive.
I’ve learned that getting out there and connecting with people is also a very important thing here.
What has it been like for you recently moving into a job manager role?
A bit challenging. I'm not very familiar with it, although I do have guidance from peers and Leads.
Previously, I worked in a team member role as a structural engineer, then I was given an opportunity to start writing proposals.
Engaging with clients and adapting to their needs are skills that I'm learning more about in this role. When you talk to clients, you're representing HK Solutions and I want to show them how good HKS is as a business partner. So far, it’s been great, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
