Excellence in engineering: a fireside conversation
The College of Leadership and Management, and Young Engineers Australia Newcastle invite members of the local engineering community to a fireside conversation with three outstanding professionals recognised for excellence across the profession: the Professional Engineer of the Year-Annie Lacombe, Emerging Engineer of the Year-Brendan Dagg, and Engineering Associate of the Year-Adam Berwick.
This relaxed, panel-style discussion will explore engineering careers across different stages, the realities of professional practice, leadership, responsibility, and the pathways that shape engineering impact.
Rather than formal presentations, the evening will focus on open dialogue, shared experiences, and practical insights relevant to engineers at all career stages.
Whether you are early in your career or an experienced professional, this event offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from peers who exemplify engineering excellence in practice.
Learning outcomes
In this presentation, you will learn:
- gain practical insight into what engineering excellence looks like in real-world practice, across different career stages and disciplines
- clarify your own career questions and professional aspirations by hearing candid reflections on pathways, challenges, and turning points from award-winning engineers
- learn how professional judgement, leadership, and responsibility evolve from emerging practice through to senior professional roles.
Program
In-person
- 5.30 pm AEDT: Registration and networking
- 6.00 pm AEDT: Panel discussion commences
- 6.45 pm AEDT: Panel discussion concludes
- 6.45 pm AEDT: Networking
- 7.00 pm AEDT: Event concludes
About the speakers
Annie Lacombe Head of Engineering, MGA Thermal
Brendan Dagg Senior Process Engineer, Hunter H2O
Adam Berwick Lead Engineer, EFM Engineering
