AUSTRALIA – Victoria’s most innovative engineers and engineering projects have been named at the 2024 Engineers Australia Excellence Awards – People and Projects Victoria, held at the Victorian Arts Centre.
Engineers Australia General Manager – Victoria, Jerry Andrews said: “The Engineers Australia Excellence Awards recognise the remarkable contributions of engineers and showcases the profound impact their work has on society.
“By acknowledging these achievements, we not only highlight their innovation but also pave the way for future engineers, setting new standards and inspiring the next wave of talent in the profession.”
Local winners will go on to represent their division at the national awards’ gala dinner on 21 November at the Brisbane City Hall.
Victoria Project of the Year: Swinburne University of Technology Victorian Hydrogen Hub – CSIRO Hydrogen Refuelling Station
The CSIRO Hydrogen Refuelling Station is Australia’s first all-in-one fast hydrogen refuelling station, representing a major step forward in decarbonising transport.
This innovative facility enables the production and dispensing of green hydrogen for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and provides critical infrastructure for the future of hydrogen-powered transport.
With its compact, integrated design, the station serves as a scalable model for hydrogen refuelling, offering a solution to one of the key challenges in transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
Victoria Professional Engineer of the Year: Professor Chun-Qing Li – RMIT University
Professor Chun-Qing Li is celebrated for his 30-year career in structural engineering, particularly in whole-life assessment and management of infrastructure.
As Director of the ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Carbon Neutral Infrastructure, he leads groundbreaking research on structural safety, longevity, and sustainability.
Professor Li’s contributions to extending the life of critical infrastructure have had a lasting impact on Australia’s rail and water systems.
Victoria Emerging Professional Engineer of the Year: Dr Hua Qian Ang – RMIT University
Dr Hua Qian Ang is recognised for her pioneering efforts in engineering education and sustainability.
Her innovative EPIC Engineering Comic series has reached audiences in over 70 countries, bridging the skills gap in engineering education.
Dr. Ang’s work in promoting decarbonisation through the development of light alloys and green metal production has had a global impact.
Her dedication to diversity and inclusion is evident in her mentoring efforts and her support for Indigenous representation in engineering.
Electrical College MA Sargent Medal: Professor Mahdi Jalili – RMIT University
Professor Mahdi Jalili has been recognised for his groundbreaking work integrating AI with renewable energy and electric vehicles.
As Director of the Australian Research Council Transformation Training Centre for Electrifying Australia, Professor Jalili has led innovative research addressing critical challenges in energy sustainability.
His contributions to the energy sector, along with his dedication to mentoring the next generation of industry leaders, make him a worthy recipient of this prestigious award.
Engineering Heritage Australia John Monash Medal (Presented by Michael Bennett the great-grandson of Sir John Monash): Miles Pierce – GHD (retired)
Miles Pierce receives the John Monash Medal for his outstanding contributions to preserving Australia’s engineering heritage.
Through his professional work and volunteer efforts, Pierce has documented and recognised numerous historical engineering projects, including Melbourne’s tram network and early water supply systems.
His leadership in heritage committees and community engagement has raised awareness of the significance of Australia’s engineering achievements, ensuring that these contributions are preserved for future generations.
