ALUMNI
Rhys Anderson
Work-integrated learning during his studies provided Rhys with valuable experience and understanding of the work a chemical engineer does.
Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours)
My plans for my future career include building on my current knowledge and leading innovative, sustainable water projects which help to make Melbourne and Australia great(er) places to live and work.
There are three things that stand out as highlights of my studies in chemical engineering at RMIT. Firstly the course work, which included group-based project work every semester which focused on solving a different chemical engineering problem. Secondly, the broad range of subjects I was able to study, these ranged from mining to oil and gas to plastics to environmental (including water) to food. Finally, we had access to academic and professionals who were well regarded in the industry which proved invaluable to developing my knowledge and skills.
During my program, I undertook a week in industry with Fosters (now CUB) in Abbottsford. This was an excellent opportunity to get an understanding of the type of day-to-day work that a chemical engineer might undertake as well as the broad range of skills and people you are exposed to.
I also undertook vacation employment with The Dow Chemical Company in Altona. This was valuable experience working with a group of engineers on a project. I also elected to undertake a subject which saw me travel to Cohuna, Victoria, teaching science and chemistry to school students of different ages.
I’m currently employed as a Process Engineer, working on water and wastewater projects. Predominantly my role is in the design of water treatment systems and processes, working in groups from the planning phase through to the detailed design of treatment plants. My greatest achievement has been the involvement and delivery of the Yarra Park Water Recycling Facility, an underground sewage treatment plant producing 600,000L of Class A water per day for irrigation of Yarra Park and toilet flushing in the MCG.
In 2014 I was named in the Property Council of Australia’s list of 30 under 30. This list reveals the creative thinkers and intellectual powerhouses who are helping to shape the property industry of the future. This was a great honour to be recognised for all my hard work.
I love what I do because my work results in a more liveable and resilient Melbourne. My plans for my future career include building on my current knowledge and leading innovative, sustainable water projects which help to make Melbourne and Australia great(er) places to live and work.