Skip to content

Kethmi Upeka

from Data Entry officer to Civil Engineer
I plan roads, bridges, and rail projects to make travel safer, faster, and more exciting.
Industry
Transport, Logistics and Warehousing
Company
Department of Transport and Main Roads, Queensland Government
Job Level
Mid

Ask me about

  • Starting your career in Engineering
  • How to build up your network
  • Leaving Asia to follow my passion in engineering
  • Work- life balance

About me

  • Regional Background

When I was younger, I wanted to be a doctor. But growing up in a Sri Lankan family, becoming an engineer was one of the top professions my mum encouraged me to consider. Looking back, I’m so glad I chose this path because it suits me perfectly, and the work-life balance at Department of Transport and Main Road (TMR) makes it even better. 

I moved to the Gold Coast from Sri Lanka to complete my studies, and through hard work and determination, I was able to secure a student engineer position at (TMR). It wasn’t just luck, I put in the effort to make it happen. Now, three years later, I’m still here, loving what I do and proud of how far I’ve come.

About my role

  • Flexible
  • Logical
  • Observant
  • Resourceful
  • Understanding

As a graduate civil engineer at the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), I actively contribute to the Project Planning and Corridor Management teams through:

  • Planning, preconstruction, construction, traffic management, asset management, and design.
  • My role encompasses involvement in impactful projects such as the Gold Coast Light Rail (various stages), Cross River Rail projects, and the Currumbin Creek Active Transport Bridge.
  • I collaborate with engineers, planners, and administrative officers who bring years of expertise to a dynamic and supportive work environment.
  • I apply my technical skills to enhance road safety and deliver sustainable infrastructure solutions, while developing a comprehensive understanding of transport systems.

Education

  • Bachelor of Engineering (Honors)- majored in Civil Engineering
  • Higher National Diploma/Higher Diploma in Civil Engineering
  • Engineers Australia Graduate Membership

Subjects

  • Accounting
  • Art
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Dance
  • Design
  • English
  • General Mathematics (Maths A)
  • Geography
  • History
  • Mathematical Methods (Maths B)
  • Music
  • Performing Arts
  • Physical Education
  • Physics
  • Science
  • Specialist Mathematics (Maths C)

Awards

  • Green Sustainability award 2016
  • Championship awards Table Tennis
  • Western Music Competition- All Island Runner Up

Hobbies

  • Beach adventures
  • Cooking
  • Golf
  • Gym
  • Painting
  • Pilates
  • Reading
  • Volunteering

15 year old me!!

“You’re not alone. Trust your journey, support is there, and your future is incredible!”

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Moved from Sri Lanka to Australia
  2. Pursued engineering studies at Gold Coast
  3. Joined TMR Graduate Program
  4. Contributed to major transport projects
  5. Shaped Gold Coast's infrastructure future

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.