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experience Will Marshall Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical), Monash University.


Will is a mechanical engineer for Siemens, an international specialist in innovation, sustainability and technology. He works within Siemens’ Mobility Division on project teams designing and fitting new solutions to improve Melbourne’s tram and train networks. While studying he undertook work experience for a Belgian manufacturing company and also volunteered for the Aurora solar car team, competing in races across Australia and Japan.


How did your work experience prepare you for your current role? My task was to design, develop and build an automatic machine towards its introduction into the manufacturing process. I was fortunate to be able to see the project evolve from computer screen, through construction and troubleshooting, to installation. The skills I gained in metalwork and welding help me to understand problems from a tradesman’s perspective when I create new designs, specifications or procedures in my current role.


How have your academic skills translated into a practical setting? My role is quite varied. I have called on skills gained across various university subjects, from detailed mechanical design including material strength and vibration analysis to project management and process improvement. One of the most important aspects of my job is to clearly communicate engineering problems and solutions to colleagues without a similar background, either at management, commercial or shop floor level. It makes for a great challenge but an equally great reward when these issues can be solved in a manner which is acceptable for all. These skills were well developed thanks to the Monash course structure.


What did the application process involve? This graduate position was unusual in that it came up mid-year. Following my initial application I was interviewed by one of the most experienced technical specialists within the division, who has a wealth of knowledge in many of the projects in which I now work. This was followed by a site visit to one of the major projects, where I met more of the staff and got a greater feeling for the role.


What’s a typical day like as a Siemens grad? There is no such thing as a typical day! We often have to schedule around outside influences. Occasionally work must take place at odd hours so as not to inconvenience normal daily running. However I’ve found that occasional early mornings or late nights can actually lead to a great flexibility in personal life and the potential to do things that may not be possible in a normal 9 to 5 job.


What career advice would you give to others considering a similar career path? Always be open to new experiences and trying new things. Though they may seem unrelated, experiences at university, in casual employment or even in personal life can be extremely useful later on and often when you least expect it. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or guidance from parents, bosses or mentors because they have been through many of the same situations before.


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