Skip to content

Aarie Soma

from Retail Cashier to Principal Engineer
I work with engineers to plan, design and construct roads and road related infrastructure
Industry
Transport, Logistics and Warehousing
Company
Department of Transport and Main Roads, Queensland Government
Job Level
Mid

Ask me about

  • Why I think engineering is a humanitarian cause
  • If anyone can become an engineer
  • What the most interesting part of my job is

About me

  • Regional Background

I made the choice to go into engineering as I enjoyed both maths and physics and this seemed to be the most natural choice. Once I started engineering I began to slowly understand that underpinning the technical work was a humanitarian cause. Engineering to me is all about finding the most effective solution to a presented problem – which is something that I enjoy in my work. I would say that I slowly grew into what it means to be an engineer rather than being taught how to be one.

About my role

  • Analytical
  • Calm
  • Confident
  • Curious
  • Firm
  • Focused
  • Observant
  • Rational

As an engineer in planning, I work with experts to model the future based on population growth, economic developments and new attractions. With this model I plan 5/10/20 years into the future and build the roads and adjacent infrastructure to support the growth of the community.

Education

  • Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) in Civil Engineering

Subjects

  • Chemistry
  • English
  • Languages
  • Mathematical Methods (Maths B)
  • Physics
  • Specialist Mathematics (Maths C)

Hobbies

  • Art
  • Bike riding
  • Cooking
  • Gym
  • Painting
  • Reading

Pets

  • 1 Dog

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Got a scholarship with TMR
  2. Asked to be included in major project
  3. Applied for a job in Brisbane
  4. Said yes to an engineer adjacent role
  5. Said yes to networking opportunities

My typical day

My employer

The Department of Transport and Main Roads moves and connects people, places, goods and services safely, efficiently and effectively across Queensland. We plan, manage and deliver Queensland's integrated transport environment to achieve sustainable transport solutions for road, rail, air and sea. Our vision is to create a single integrated transport network accessible to everyone. As part of the Queensland Government, we are committed to building a diverse workforce that represents the community we serve.