Investing in the skills for the energy jobs of today and tomorrow

3 min read

In a world of rapidly changing environmental and employment challenges, Veolia is stepping up and investing in the skills necessary to build the energy workforce of tomorrow. 


One of the ways in which Veolia is meeting this challenge is through engineering employment opportunities through its unique industry partnerships.  

In South East Queensland, Veolia was selected by the University of the Sunshine Coast to realise its vision of carbon neutrality. From this innovative project came the opportunity for a hands-on role for Mechanical Engineering graduate, Josh Craven, enabling him to engineer his ideal career building sustainable energy solutions.
 

After graduating from the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) in Queensland, Australia with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, he soon slotted into a role at Kunda Park with Veolia.
 

But it wasn’t long before he found himself back on campus where he’d spent four years studying – this time to help construct the university’s environmentally-friendly “water battery” which will be run by 6,000 solar panels.
 

“It’s exciting to be working on a project that was designed for USC specifically to save energy and to protect the environment,” said Josh, a Graduate Energy Services Engineer.
 

“Veolia has a focus on sustainability and providing solutions that are as efficient as possible, which aligns with the University’s values, so it’s great to see this partnership.”
 

Veolia will install the solar panels to chill water for air conditioning in a 4.5 megalitre water storage tank at USC’s main campus at Sippy Downs.
 

Josh was involved in the early planning including drawings, layout drawings, site drawings, writing the scope of works and organising contracts - all key parts of his job.
 

“It is becoming increasingly crucial that we consider the impact we are having on the environment,” Josh said.


“Every year, new industry standards are introduced and we see that clients are more willing to see more sustainable solutions.”
 

He is also working with USC engineering students on this project, and to conduct energy audits for several buildings across the campus.
 

“We are working on reports that will highlight how energy is being used and what steps can be taken to lower usage, cost and emissions,” he said.
 

He said engineering had appealed to him since he excelled at mathematics and physics at Mountain Creek State High School, and he was particularly drawn to engineering things that moved. He finished with an OP of 4 and a scholarship.
 

“In Year 12 I did a solar project measuring the voltage produced by panels placed at different angles to the sun. I’ve always been interested in how we can produce power more efficiently and how we can do it without harming the environment.”
 

He said his USC education had laid the perfect foundations for a career in the field, providing him with a solid base in the industry and proficiency with 2D and 3D modelling programs.

 

What does rise, and shine mean to you?

“Rise to your full potential through the work that you produce. Just being proactive in trying to get the most out of your subjects.”

 

Testimonial

“Uni was enjoyable and close to where I lived in Buderim. The campus scenery and environment are nice and I’d say it’s pretty laid-back compared to a city university. I enjoyed working with other students and I am glad I pursued a field I enjoy and that I see I will have work in future.
 

“Engineering is just an enjoyable field, putting science into practice to create energy that we use in our everyday lives.”
 

What are you proud of?

“I’m happy that I was able to complete my degree in four years and secure a full time job locally not long after.”