World Engineering Day: Smart systems engineering for sustainable networks

This panel discussion explores how smart systems, AI, and real-time data are being applied across transport, energy, water, and built assets to create sustainable, resilient, and high-performing infrastructure networks. The session brings together leading experts in systems engineering, digital advisory, and complex infrastructure integration to share practical insights, emerging digital practices, and lessons learned from real-world applications.

The discussion will highlight:

• how systems engineering and model-based systems engineering (MBSE) underpin smart, resilient infrastructure
• the role of digital intelligence, AI, and real-time data in optimising asset performance and sustainability
• socio-technical considerations, organisational barriers, and governance challenges in digital transformation
• practical approaches for embedding emerging digital engineering practices into legacy systems

Who should attend?

This session is open to all members of Engineers Australia, non-members and anyone interested in exploring how digital technologies and smart systems can advance sustainability.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• identify global and local trends in smart systems, digital engineering, and real-time infrastructure intelligence
• understand legacy barriers to digital transformation and practical enablers for overcoming them
• translate emerging digital practices and systems-engineering approaches into actionable strategies for sustainable, resilient, and high-performing infrastructure
  

About the speakers

Serryn Eagleson Digital Advisory Lead, Arup

Harman Singh MIE AustSmart Cities and Places Lead, Head of Automation for APAC, GHD

A/Prof Elizabeth Williams Associate Professor and Nuclear Systems Discipline Lead, School of Engineering, ANU College of Systems and Society

Katherine Richards AM CSC HonFIEAust CPEng EngExec NER Chief Engineer, Engineers Australia