From Nepal to Geelong: Sudeep’s Journey to Becoming Chartered
Sudeep is a recently Chartered electrical engineer, who has been part of the HK Solutions team for 4 years. Before joining HK, his professional journey started back in Nepal where he studied a Bachelor of Engineering. After working there for around 10 years, Sudeep moved to Australia, is now living in Geelong with his family, and loving it. We had a chat to Sudeep about recently being awarded Chartered status, and they journey that led up to it.
Why did you decide to study engineering?
I grew up on an engineering campus where my parents worked at a university. Most of the people around me including my parents’ friends and colleagues were engineers or technical professionals, which inspired me from a young age.
I’ve always had a habit of breaking and making things, so that curiosity also played a role.
I chose electrical engineering specifically because, growing up in Nepal, we experienced frequent scheduled blackouts due to power shortages. That made me think about the need to generate more electricity, and I wanted to be part of the solution. That’s what led me to study electrical engineering.
What roles have you held throughout your career?
Before I even received my transcript, I started working with an engineering consultancy in Nepal that conducted feasibility studies for micro-hydro power plants. We’d travel to remote areas to assess electricity demand and evaluate whether nearby rivers could generate enough power for local communities.
I also worked on inspections of photovoltaic systems distributed by the government to rural areas. Sometimes these systems weren’t being used effectively, so we’d inspect and repair them where possible.
Later, I joined a data centre in Nepal and worked there for 7–8 years, managing the operation and maintenance of electrical and mechanical infrastructure.
How do you come to work for HK Solutions?
I moved to Australia in 2017 on a temporary work visa sponsored by the Queensland government, with my occupation listed as Maintenance Planner.
I lived in the Sunshine Coast for about three years. After fulfilling my visa obligations and gaining permanent residency, I moved to Melbourne to study and restart my career in my field.
I completed a certificate-level course to bridge the gap between Australian standards and my previous experience. After that, I did a three-month internship at a manufacturing plant. Once it ended, I applied to various companies and chose HK Solutions. I researched the company’s vision, spoke with the Directors during the interview, and really liked the direction and work they were doing — so I joined.
What do you enjoy about working with HK?
We work on a wide range of projects — from small lighting jobs to large-scale buildings and precinct developments. Everyone gets the opportunity to be involved in different aspects of the work.
Our directors trust us with responsibility allowing us to manage our own projects, and all the teammates are fantastic, we help each other and work together towards a goal.
Why did you decide to become Chartered ?
I’ve been with HK for four years, and during the first three, I worked as an Electrical Designer. From day one, our leaders encouraged me to pursue Engineers Australia recognition.
Once my degree was recognised by Engineers Australia, I began the process of registering on the NER. During the assessment, I was given the option to upgrade to a Chartered application, which includes NER — so I went for it.
Also, with the rise of AI, I felt the need to upskill and stay ahead. Becoming Chartered felt like the right step to grow professionally and contribute more meaningfully to our organization.
To me, being Chartered means being a responsible engineer, not only in terms of experience, but also in terms of leadership and broader professional attributes. Not only for me, but also for our organization I represent.
What was your favourite thing about the Chartered process?
Two things stood out. First, my referees were incredibly supportive and transparent. Second, the interview, which I expected it to be intense, but it turned out to be relaxed and friendly.
What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming Chartered?
It’s a straightforward process. If you're thinking about it, just start. Engineers Australia has a well-defined pathway. You don’t need to wait 15 years.
Start collecting CPD evidence early. I thought that would be the hardest part, but EA’s website offers plenty of guidance on how to do it.
So my advice is: Act now.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
In the future I see myself in the work that I am currently doing here. I want to become a subject matter expert in outdoor lighting, especially sports and outdoor road lighting. I want to be involved in more and more of these external lighting works.
