When Sonam Yangdon GradIEAust arrived in Australia with a civil engineering degree and international experience, she knew she had a long road ahead to break into the local industry. What she didn’t know was that a chance meeting at an Engineers Australia networking event would become the turning point in her career. 

Originally from Bhutan, Sonam completed her Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering in India before returning home to work as a site engineer. “During that time, I realised the importance of soft skills and leadership in project delivery,” she says. To sharpen those skills, she pursued a Master’s in Business Administration (Leadership) in Queensland – drawn to Australia for its world-class universities and multicultural environment. 

But like many overseas-qualified engineers, Sonam faced challenges transitioning into the Australian workforce. To support herself, she took on temporary roles in insurance, retail and education, all while actively seeking engineering opportunities. “I never lost sight of my passion for engineering,” she says. 

Her persistence paid off in March 2025 when she attended the Brisbane Ignite networking event hosted by Engineers Australia. Encouraged by her mentor, Brad Thompson, Sonam arrived at the event eager – if a little nervous – to make industry connections. One of those connections was Sascha Kurz, the 2024 Queensland Professional Engineer of the Year and Managing Director of Infrastructure Project Solutions (IPS), part of the Sequana Group. A conversation after Sascha’s guest speech turned into a follow up meeting – and ultimately, a job offer. 

Sonam is now a Project Engineer at IPS. She credits the organisation’s leadership for actively investing in staff development and fostering an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.  

“Joining IPS has been incredibly rewarding,” she says. “The team genuinely fosters professional growth and values every contribution. I feel proud to be part of such a supportive environment.” 

“From adjusting to a new country to securing my role at IPS, I’ve gained confidence, clarity and purpose,” she says. “I’m deeply grateful to my family for their constant encouragement, to Brad and Deb for their unwavering support, and to Sascha for believing in me and giving me this incredible opportunity. I also want to thank the IPS team for fostering a welcoming environment and providing the support that enables my continued growth and success.” 

Mentorship played a pivotal role in Sonam’s journey. She was introduced to Brad through his wife, Deborah Males, who had recently returned from volunteering in Bhutan. From there, a mentoring relationship grew. “They guided me through unfamiliar systems, introduced me to key people and reminded me to believe in myself,” Sonam says. 

Brad Thompson FIEAust CPEng NER, a Brisbane-based engineer whose career spans radar systems, water infrastructure, transport tunnels and asset management, said mentoring Sonam was one of the most meaningful moments of his career. “A small act on my part helped Sonam secure a job,” he said. “It made a real difference to her and her family. That’s one of my proudest achievements.” 

He encourages others to consider mentoring through workplace-supported schemes, LinkedIn or the Engineers Australia Mentoring Hub. “Do some research first to discover the tools and resources that can help ensure a successful mentoring experience,” he says. “Being an engineer is more than just a job – you’re part of a professional community that has helped shape the world we live in.” 

Sonam agrees. “To early-career engineers, especially those from migrant backgrounds – my advice is simple: don’t be afraid to ask for help. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, and stay curious. Opportunities come to those who stay prepared and connected.” 

Looking back, Sonam says the most rewarding part of her journey has been the personal growth and relationships built along the way. “I’m grateful to everyone who’s helped me along the way – and to Engineers Australia for creating the kind of space where this story could unfold.” 

At Engineers Australia, we’re proud to support pathways for emerging engineers like Sonam through events such as Ignite. By bringing early-career professionals together with industry leaders, these events continue to create the space where meaningful connections – and careers, can begin. 

Looking to grow your network and career? Join us at an Ignite event near you →