Reza Akbarzadeh GradIEAust is an electrical engineer. To support eligible Griffith University undergraduate engineering students, he recently launched the Reza Akbarzadeh Engineering Scholarship He received his Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Hons) from Griffith University in 2016. While at university, he was an Engineers Australia Campus Coordinator. As part of his study requirements, he worked for Energex Limited and completed his thesis on ‘Balancing Low Voltage Networks’. He has received a number of awards, including The Philip Jones Award (Engineers Australia), Graduate of the Year 2016 (Griffith School of Engineering), ICPADM Mat Darveniza Thesis Award (IEEE QLD Section) and the Outstanding Contribution to Teaching Award (Griffith School of Engineering).
What is your current job/role title and function?
I am currently working at Aurizon as a rotational electrical engineer. I am part of the asset management team and we are responsible for Aurizon’s overhead infrastructure in the Central Queensland Coal Network (CQCN).
Why did you choose engineering as a profession?
As an engineer, we are skilled in multiple areas. Pursuing engineering gives you flexible career pathways.
Why did you decide to offer an undergraduate engineering scholarship?
As a student, I found it extremely difficult to work, study and do extracurricular activities. An unexpected bill could mean that I had to spend more time working and less time doing engineering related work. So, as a way of giving back to the community, I decided to set up this scholarship to support students so they are able to do more at university without worrying about their finances.
Why did you decide to become an Engineers Australia member?
Obtaining a bachelor degree on its own does not mean that a person can practise as a professional engineer straight away. It requires time, support and structured supervision. As an Engineers Australia member, I can obtain this timely and structured supervision through the continuous professional development program. In addition, I can keep myself up to date by attending Engineers Australia events.
What is your favourite TV show?
I don’t watch a lot of TV these days, but How I Met Your Mother is definitely my favourite TV show.
What’s the most recent present you bought yourself?
As a graduation present, I bought myself a new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X.
What is your favourite quote?
It is a quote from Steve Jobs from his address at Stanford University. He said: “Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow know what you truly want to become.”
What is your favourite movie?
Transformers is my favourite movie. It is science fiction, but somehow it feels very real.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I really like spending time outdoors, whether it is having a simple coffee with a friend or just going for a bushwalk.
If you could take a year off to study anything, what would it be?
I would probably study engineering again, but something that would complement what I have already studied. Specifically, I would like to know more about transformers (and no, I am not talking about Optimus Prime).
Applications for the Reza Akbarzadeh Engineering Scholarship close Monday 17 April 2017.
Image: Reza Akbarzadeh GradIEAust inspecting electrical bonds in Aurizon’s On train Repair facility, Jilalan Yard.