When I drive through Hobart with my friends, I sometimes slow the car down, point to a street corner or a stretch of new footpath, and grin as I say, “That’s my project. I did that.”
It’s a small moment of pride in how far I’ve come since arriving in Tasmania seven years ago. Today, I work as a Design Engineer with the City of Hobart on civil infrastructure projects—roads, stormwater systems, kerbs and channels—that help the city function smoothly and inclusively. For me, this job is about more than designs on a screen; it’s about contributing to the place I now call home.
Starting my journey in Tasmania
What stood out for me when I arrived in Tasmania was how different life is here compared to Taiwan, where I’m from. Tasmania is a very beautiful place with beautiful nature. And it’s also a slower pace of life. In Taipei, everyone is busy; no-one stops to talk to you. But here in Hobart, people are very friendly and very supportive. If you have a question, they’re helpful.
Choosing to study in Tasmania
Tasmania was my top choice, especially after I received a scholarship from the University of Tasmania to complete a Master of Civil and Structural Engineering.
At UTAS, I experienced small class sizes, close industry connections, and a teaching style that encouraged both technical skill and creativity. The teachers supported us in problem-solving and creative thinking, and I enjoyed hands-on laboratory work with hydraulics and concrete structures. Studying alongside classmates from different backgrounds made me really feel supported.
Finding my first job
After I graduated, finding my dream job was difficult because I didn’t have local experience, but I kept trying.
One afternoon, while I was in my car, I received a phone call that changed everything: it was the City of Hobart offering me a position. I stopped the car right there and said, “Yes, I would love to join your team!” That moment brought so much excitement after a long wait.
Making a difference
That initial six-month contract as a stormwater officer gave me the local experience I needed. I’ve been with the City of Hobart ever since, moving into my current role as a Design Engineer. Now, I take projects from 2D concepts through detailed 3D designs before handing them off to construction teams.
Seeing the projects come to life and knowing that my work improves the lives of Hobart’s residents is incredibly rewarding. We design for the community, including people living with disabilities, by building accessible footpath ramps. Helping to make the city more beautiful and better feels like my true purpose.
A supportive workplace and community life
The people I work with at Hobart City Council are friendly and caring. Colleagues and managers check in on each other about their weekends and daily lives, creating a very supportive environment that I really appreciate.
Outside of work, I stay engaged with the local community as a committee member of Young Engineers Australia Tasmania. I help organise networking events for early-career professionals, like Firsty Thursday, where young engineers come together monthly to share stories over a beer. It’s rewarding to share advice and connect with others on similar journeys.
Why Tasmania feels like home
Looking back, choosing Tasmania was the right decision. What I like about Tasmania is the beauty of nature, the slow pace of lifestyle and the people. When I go to the coffee shop, they smile and have a chat. It feels warming. That’s what keeps me here.
Originally published by Study Tasmania.