The Banyule Nillumbik and Whittlesea Tech Schools are celebrating science-related career paths during National Science Week 2020. The campaign aims to showcase science by celebrating the people that are at the centre! National Science Week 2020 runs from August 15-23. For more information visit the National Science Week website.

When developing our programs, we often reach out to industry partners to help us build case studies that is directed to improve student’s empathy towards the topic. Last year, for our Balancing the Scales Inquiry, we contacted Solve Disability Solutions to share with us their insight on the topic. Hassan has a science-related background and career, and is currently working as an engineer at Solve Disability Solutions, a non-profit organisation. Solve provides custom assistive technology solutions for people, enabling personal independence. To read more on what he shared with us, check out the interview below.

What did you study at school? 

I studied science when I was at school.

What did you do when you left school? 

I started my undergraduate degree in Mechatronics Engineering.

What do you currently do for work? 

Currently, I am working as an Engineer in one of the reputed NFP organisation’s known as Solve Disability Solutions.

What inspired you to choose this career path? 

Working in a community and disability sector is always rewarding. The reason that I was interested to work with NFP organisation is, as an engineer by profession it’s my job to provide cost-effective and reliable solutions which can improve our society and help people in their daily lives. I was inspired when I realised that my skills can help people with disabilities to lead an independent life, and this was of great inner satisfaction. 

How is your career science-related? 

After studying science at school, I was always keen to pursue my studies in engineering. To follow my passion, I studied Bachelors in Mechatronics Engineering and Masters in Mechanical Engineering with specialisation in Business studies. That how, I believe that my career is science-related.

What are you most proud of achieving within this role? 

The proudest achievements working as an engineer in overseeing disability equipment related problems is that, when my engineering skills lead to a safe and viable solution, I feel great satisfaction by realising that I am actually assisting disable people by enhancing their capabilities to lead an independent living.  Whenever a solution is delivered to them, a smile on their face is what makes me proud.

What would you say are the key skills needed for your role? 

Multiple key skills are needed for this role such as design & technical skills. Also, developing communication, organisational and strong interpersonal skills are important.

What advice would you give to young people who have an interest in this field? 

The advice that I would like to give to young people is that, always try to develop multiple skills, rather than limiting yourself with a single skill-set. A good example is that try to become a bouquet with different flowers.  
Companies nowadays prefer that their employees are able to perform multiple tasks which require a diverse skill-set. Lastly, I would suggest exploring areas that spark your interest, developing your skills in an area that you enjoy doing, and using those skills to contribute to something beyond yourself.