Humza is a Graduate Engineer in our ground engineering team in Melbourne. He is working on some of Australia and New Zealand’s largest infrastructure projects by designing strong ground foundations. Learn more about Humza and how he is shaping his career at Arup.
What did you study and where?
I studied a Bachelor of Design, Civil Systems and Master of Engineering, Structural at the University of Melbourne.
Why did you choose the Arup graduate programme?
In my last year of university, Arup’s geotechnical engineering team delivered a six-week module on the applications of geotechnical engineering. The team’s enthusiasm and the way they applied theory to real-life scenarios motivated me to pursue a career in geotechnical engineering at Arup – changing my preference from structural engineering.
What do you get up to in your day-to-day role?
I am in the ground engineering team, and every day is different – it’s a mix of detailed design and geotechnical analysis. I assist in managing geotechnical engineering for high-profile projects from start to completion. This process starts with scoping geotechnical investigations, reviewing project plans, costing works for clients, managing subcontractors and being on site – it’s exciting to see my projects transformed from plans and documentation into real-life projects.
What has been your most enjoyable moment/project so far?
One of the most fundamental skills a geotechnical engineer needs is understanding the site – going on the site and understanding the soil, rock and activity. This is what I have learned in my favourite project so far is an expansion for an airport. I was responsible for the geotechnical investigations from start to finish, collaborating directly with the client, managing subcontractors, and supervising on-site activities. I have been able to watch how my engineering skills are making this project possible, enabling millions of people each year to travel and see the world, work and be with family.
What are your future aspirations?
So far, in my career, I have had a unique opportunity to work across all elements of geotechnical engineering and understand the process as a whole – it’s been a rewarding experience. In the next few years, I want to get involved in technical design work. In the future, I hope to lead teams and projects. I think Arup will be the right place to help me get there. Our firm invests in people, and I look up to our leaders, many who started in the graduate development programme and have since taken leadership roles on projects, teams and boards.