Phoebe is a Civil Designer in the Darling Downs District. With hands-on experience in road and transport infrastructure projects, they are proficient in design drafting, 3D modelling, and quantity estimation using tools such as 12d Model and AutoCAD. After completing a Cadetship with the department, they moved into a Designer role and earned an Associate Degree in Civil Engineering. They are currently working full time while pursuing their Bachelor’s Degree.
Phoebe is a committed advocate for equity, inclusion, and diversity and a leader in the TMR Pride Network. They have led and hosted numerous Pride events at their regional office, supporting and raising awareness for the LGBTQIA+ community. Through these efforts, they continue to foster visibility, connection, and support for LGBTQIA+ employees, helping build a workplace where everyone feels safe and empowered to be themselves.
What sparked your interest in civil engineering?
Before pursing engineering, I was completing my cabinet making trade. One of the things I loved about the trade was designing the furniture and making a vision come to life. Upon discovering that, I realised I was interested in how things in the infrastructure world came to be, and that is civil engineering — the details and development behind everyday infrastructure systems.
Why is diversity and inclusion important in STEM, and how has being involved in the TMR Pride Network shaped your experience at work?
I believe diversity and inclusion are important in STEM because of the amount of people impacted by those industries and the broad network of people that work in those industries. Everyone should feel capable and welcome to bring their truest self to work because it fosters a positive work experience, which in turn impacts the level of work you are outputting. Being involved in the TMR Pride Network has made me feel more comfortable about expressing my truest self at work. It has opened the door to so many opportunities that I never thought I would be involved in, and it has taught me invaluable skills which I can implement into my career.
What advice do you have for young girls thinking of pursuing engineering?
The advice I would give is to take any opportunity you are given, ask questions and challenge yourself. Engineering is such a broad industry with so many avenues to explore. You could very well find something you are incredibly passionate about, and if not, you will learn invaluable skills that you could apply across other parts of your life.