Robert Hoffman FIEAust CPEng is the Deputy Division President of Engineers Australia’s Queensland Division and the Manager of BDO. His volunteer work is geared towards advancing the profession by finding innovative ways to connect with stakeholders and young engineers.
“We rebranded Young Engineers Australia to make it more accessible to graduates. We’re now establishing a shadow board, to help advise the EA Board on ideas or initiatives they want to roll out.
Along the way, volunteers are making a real difference.
I’m passionate about volunteering because I like connecting dots. That’s what gets me up in the morning. If I think two people should chat because it could result in a good outcome, then I like to bring those people together.
I have been Chair of Young Engineers Queensland and Young Engineers National, and a co-Chair of Emerging Professionals in Infrastructure Queensland (EPIQ).
What’s in it for me? I enjoy the fact that at an event I feel as if I know 80 per cent of the people there. I appreciate the conversations and experience I absorb from each of them.
Obviously, there are career benefits, too. I don’t think I would have ended up in my current role if I hadn’t been involved in volunteering and network building. It’s a win/win.”
Read more about Engineers Australia’s volunteers here.