Traffic Signals Engineer
Auckland Transport

Current Role: I am currently part of the team that helps maintain and operated the traffic signals for the greater Auckland Region. Specifically I am involved in the development of software and documentation for the operation of new and existing traffic signals. I am involved with connecting the signals to a large telephone network that allows real time monitoring of the regions several hundred sets of signals. My role also covers aspects of monitoring and optimisation of various road corridors in Auckland.

What do you enjoy best about your job? It is great being part of a team that is involved in making a direct impact on people's lives in terms of reducing congestion and vehicle emissions. I like being able to use my knowledge in such a directly beneficial manner.

Why did you choose engineering? Engineers make the 'world go round' so to speak and their role is a mix of common sense, problem solving and technical knowledge for specific applications. It is interesting that although I studied Electrical and Electronic engineering I am in putting it to use in another discipline. Skills learnt and honed in tertiary education shows the versatility of the degree to be put to good use both in other disciplines and in non-engineering roles altogether.

Why are you involved in SPPEEx? I am currently involved with Future In Tech which is a IPENZ initiative to promote engineering and science as viable career choices for young people still in schools. Maori and Pacific Islanders and grossly under-represented in engineering circles and SPPEEx is primarily focused on  promoting engineering careers as well as providing a support network for existing engineers. SPPEEx is also all about promoting and developing indigenous paradigms to be applied in culturally applicable situations. I think that being open to alternate points of view is essential for engineers.