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Brienne Makovsky

from mailroom clerk to Sustainability Engineer
I make buildings smarter so Earth can chill
Industry
Construction and infrastructure
Company
Hutchinson Builders
Job Level
Mid

Ask me about

  • How I moved from studying architecture to my career in sustainability
  • How I learnt to navigate being doubted early in my career
  • The skills that really matter in sustainability engineering day to day

About me

My journey into sustainability wasn’t a straight line. I even did an extension year in high school studying jazz guitar, but I always knew I was drawn to STEM and fascinated by buildings. I grew up and went to school in Brisbane, then moved to Melbourne to study Architecture at Deakin University. I chose architecture instead of engineering because I struggled with maths, which feels ironic now, but once I understood how I learn best, maths became a strength rather than a fear.

During my degree, I developed a strong interest in the engineering side of buildings, which opened unexpected doors. This led me to a building services engineering firm in Brisbane, where I started in mechanical engineering before moving into sustainability. After five years, I joined Hutchies, where I now specialise in Green Building certification.

About my role

  • Analytical
  • Disciplined
  • Humorous
  • Meticulous
  • Practical

Sustainability engineers help make buildings better for the planet and the people who use them. They look at how buildings use energy, water, and materials, and find ways to reduce waste and pollution. A big part of their job is giving buildings Green Star ratings, which show how environmentally friendly a building is. Sustainability engineers work with architects, builders, and other engineers to make practical changes, like saving energy, using water wisely, and choosing better materials. They help buildings lower their impact on Earth while still being comfortable places to live, learn, and work. By improving buildings, sustainability engineers help protect the planet and support a more sustainable future. Their work helps fight climate change and makes it easier for people to live and work in greener, smarter spaces.

Education

  • Bachelor of Design (Architecture)
  • Green Star Accredited Professional
  • EnviroDevelopment Professional

Subjects

  • Art
  • Drama
  • English
  • General Mathematics (Maths A)
  • Music
  • Performing Arts

Hobbies

  • Art
  • Cooking
  • Guitar
  • Rock climbing
  • Swimming

Pets

  • 1 Cat

15 year old me!!

“Don't doubt yourself; being imperfect doesn't mean you can't do it.”

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Studied jazz guitar in school
  2. Got a degree in architecture
  3. Landed a role in mechanical engineering
  4. Moved to sustainability
  5. Specialised in green building certification

My typical day

My employer

Hutchies has been building the structures in which Australians live, work, study, shop and play since 1912. As Australia's largest privately owned construction company, our business capability allows us to build not just in big cities but also in the most remote regions of Australia and across multiple sectors including: commercial and residential high-rise, health, education, retail, and aged care – just to name a few. We pride ourselves on providing the best possible value, ensuring buildability without compromising quality or design. Hutchies was born as a family business, and we’ve held on to the same core values for 110 years; investing in relationships, taking care of the community, and giving our people the knowledge, skills, and tools, they need to grow and develop and delight our clients through their work.