Robert Cairns

“I always wanted to fly, to go to space, to jump off a mountain and soar. Originally I pursued a career as a pilot. At some point, I realised I was more interested in how things work, the detailed behaviour of nature - the physics of the world and universe we live in. I looked for a career where I could continue to learn about what interests me.” 

“My high school physics teacher suggested a career in engineering rather than one in pure science. Talking to friends and relatives gave me a broader insight into what I could expect. Through my dad, who once worked as a builder, I developed an understanding of basic principles of engineering after backyard projects during my childhood.”

Whilst at University, Robert developed a strong interest in emerging and unproven technologies, renewable energy, power plant design and aerospace technology. 

“I studied mechanical and aerospace engineering with the intention of learning a skill set to solve problems. Once enrolled at the University of Queensland, I found myself interested in thermodynamics and energy. My thesis focused on continuing the university’s research on space engineering - specifically, supersonic combustion. 

“Once I graduated, I looked for work within a multidisciplinary consulting firm as I wanted to be exposed to a range of different projects. While in the early stages of my career, I’ve found it good to get a feel for what goes on in industry - how projects come together from small design detail to the construction phase, and detailed failure analysis of equipment. Aurecon offers a graduate program tailored for professional and technical development, with chartered status a key milestone.

“Work in the energy sector spans elements from many engineering disciplines. This keeps my skills broad whilst still allowing me the option of specialising as I progress. It’s an area always in need of fresh thinking and at the same time, sound knowledge of proven technologies.”

And last words?

Robert said: “Innovation coupled with technical competence opens up a world of options as an Engineer. If we can think it, at some point in the future, we’ll be able to design it and build it.”