Engineering and Construction
Working with Tools, Equipment and Machinery
This involves working with tools and equipment that are not powered by a motor or engine; and materials used in engineering and construction.
Materials include glues, nails, pipes, timber, metal, plastics
Tools and equipment include - hammers, spades, ladders, wheelbarrows, scaffolding, etc
Scope of Work
Work in this area can involve several tasks. Examples may include:
Work safely and responsibly, follow all safety requirements
Communicate with leader or supervisor when problems occur;
Replenish flow parts for assembly;
Verify parts received are accurate;
Perform numerous computer transactions daily;
Ensure materials are available for manufacturing requirements;
Perform equipment calibrations and maintenance;
Maintain log books associated with each piece of equipment;
Maintain cleanness, organization in the workplace
What You Need to Learn
Materials Science - chemistry,timber, metal, plastics
Applied Physics: mechanics, electronics, I.T.
Equipment -machinery, tools, design, manufacturing, repair, maintenance, R & D
Management - project, logistics, operational
Communication skills: verbal, non verbal, speaking, listening, writing
Risk Management -Work Health and Safety, first aid, budget control
Careers may begin by becoming involved with technology first then moving into construction; or alternatively by becoming involved in engineering materials and equipment then moving into applying technology in that industry.
An opportunity to start may be as basic as sales work for a machinery shop, garage, factory, hardware store, or elsewhere; or any manual labour work with machinery. Careers begin with an interest, followed by learning and experience, fuelled by a positive attitude, ambition and being proactive about seizing every opportunity that presents itself. Consider doing all or any of the following:
Undertake home renovation or machine repair jobs - learn tasks by doing them, and learn about the materials and equipment needed
Seek casual or part time employment in the industry -with manufacturers, material suppliers, contractors, with builders, landscapers, etc.
Volunteer on community projects - repair, renovation, maintenance of community buildings (eg. for sporting clubs).
Learn to safely and properly operate machinery (obtain a license, do a short course, get experience)
Undertake relevant foundation training - formal or informal (e.g. mechanics, carpentry, electronics)
Get involved - attend trade shows, industry meetings, product launches. Talk to people in the industry who develop, sell or use construction tech. Learn from them and develop your network of contacts.
Explore information and developments. Read publications and web sites. Become active in social media with people who are actively involved with engineering materials or equipment.
To progress in your career you will need:
Networking: join professional and industry bodies, be active on social media and connect with professionals involved in the production and sale of engineering materials or equipment within the technology sector; participate in industry events and product launches to broaden both your exposure and your knowledge of both the industry and the equipment being sold. The greater your exposure in the industry the better your chances of being offered new roles or advancement.
Great Communication: work and communicate effectively within your role, if you are not sure where to start observe senior staff, use them as your mentors. Engage in new activities, practice active listening, offer your opinions and solutions if you think they are valid and will improve work.
Learning: informal or formal learning is all valid and can lead you to a higher qualification. Enrol in a online or face-to-face course that will give the skills and tools you need to progress (e.g. mechanics, carpentry, electronics, communication skills, leadership/supervisory skills or even a computer course).
Experience: experience is important to help you progress in your career: demonstrable practical skills, knowledge, ambition and dedication all help you to take that next step up. Gain experience by taking on new jobs within your role or in a new role. Taking on new roles, or new jobs within your role, may not immediately give you a higher level position but broad knowledge and skills are valued, as is flexibility - don't knock back the opportunity! The broader your skill set the better your chance at advancement.
