Taking an unexpected leap into engineering

Engineering wasn't always part of Brittany's career plans. Encouraged by a trusted colleague and mentor, she spent more than a year considering the idea before deciding to pursue engineering.

The more I thought about it, the more it made sense, so eventually I decided to take the leap.

Today, Brittany is studying engineering at CQUniversity while balancing family commitments, university study and her role as a Laboratory Technician.

Recently awarded the CQUniCares Downer Indigenous Scholarship, Brittany is receiving financial support to help her focus on her studies and future career. The scholarship supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to succeed at university and transition into professional careers.

For Brittany, the scholarship has eased some of the pressure of balancing work, study and family.

“My children were my biggest motivation for applying. The scholarship gives me more freedom to focus on my studies and family rather than worrying about how to make everything fit.”

The impact has extended beyond her education.

“My son is almost 10, and the pride he has in me has probably been the biggest confidence boost throughout this journey.”

Mark O’Neill, Senior Inclusion & Belonging Manager, Downer Energy & Utilities, said supporting students through initiatives such as the CQUniCares Downer Indigenous Scholarship helps create pathways for future engineering talent.

“We’re committed to supporting the next generation of engineers and creating opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds to succeed.”

As her studies progress, Brittany is already seeing clear connections between what she is learning and the real-world challenges engineers solve every day.

“At work I can physically see how materials behave, while my engineering studies are beginning to give me the theory behind why they behave that way.”

Her advice to others considering further study while working is simple:

“Don’t underestimate the commitment, but don’t let that stop you from starting. Taking the first step is often the hardest part, and it’s absolutely worth it.”

For more information about the CQUniCares Downer Indigenous Scholarship, including eligibility criteria and scholarship details, visit the CQUniversity website.