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Laura Smagin

from Commercial Cleaner (retail store) to Northern Region Digital Engineering Manager
I connect the right data to the right people in the right format
Industry
Construction and infrastructure
Company
Fulton Hogan - Sponsored by Construction Pathways
Job Level
Senior

Ask me about

  • International travel and living in the Middle East, Singapore or India
  • Challenges of keeping up-to-date with ever-changing technology
  • How I manage work-life balance
  • My career changes

About me

  • International Experience

When I left school, I knew I wanted to pursue a trade. I’d enjoyed technical drawing and applied to the Polytechnical Institute to study architectural design drafting. Over the years, I changed careers several times but I always found my way back to drafting.

The tools of the trade have evolved dramatically, from pens, paper and drawing boards, to computer-generated, data-rich 3D models. I’m naturally curious and open to change, and technology has been a constant journey of discovery. By staying flexible and adaptable, I’ve been able to navigate both the challenges and opportunities that comes with advancing technology.

About my role

  • Calm
  • Curious
  • Imaginative
  • Passionate
  • Resourceful

A digital engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains digital systems, software, and technological solutions. They work with advanced computing tools to create efficient and innovative digital products, ensuring they meet user needs and business objectives. Digital engineers often collaborate with other experts, including software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity specialists, to build and refine applications, artificial intelligence models, or automated processes. They apply problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues, optimise performance, and enhance security. Their role also involves integrating emerging technologies, such as cloud computing and machine learning, into various industries, making systems smarter and more efficient. Digital engineers need strong technical knowledge, creativity, and adaptability to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Whether working on software systems, digital infrastructure, or smart technology, they help shape the future of digital innovation, improving the way people interact with technology in everyday life.

Education

  • RICs BIM Manager Certification (UK)
  • BCAA BIM Manager Certification (Singapore)
  • NZ Certificate in Architectural Design Drafting (NZCADD)

Subjects

  • English
  • General Mathematics (Maths A)
  • Geography
  • Physical Education

Awards

  • Inland Rail Collaboration staff Award
  • World BIM Conference Speaker Award

Hobbies

  • Camping
  • Interior design
  • Photography
  • Travel

Pets

  • 1 Cat

15 year old me!!

“Listen more, speak less, follow your dreams, be passionate, live the life you choose, be brave and walk your own path. Failure IS an option”

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Studied architectural design drafting
  2. Migrated from NZ to AUS during 1st recession (1988)
  3. First female to be invited to a construction 'topping off party'
  4. Invited to Singapore as a specialist on the Singapore BIM roadmap
  5. Invited to the Middle East as a specialist for the BIM mandate

My typical day

My employer

Through UNIQ You's partnership with Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) we have been able to welcome construction Advisor's from CSQ's Major Contractor Partners. Read more about this Advisor's employer below. Fulton Hogan delivers high-quality infrastructure to improve the lives of people in Australia and New Zealand, every day. Our 9,000 strong team works in every kind of weather, creating, connecting, and caring for communities. After 90 years in business, we believe resilient infrastructure will help tackle the challenges of a changing world, and we will continue to invest and innovate to play our part.