Kennedy Caton

Site Engineer, Dominion Constructors
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Architectural Engineering

She loves seeing 2D become 3D, says Kennedy Caton who is now a site engineer for Dominion Constructors and plays a key role in bringing construction projects to life.

“I love the sense of accomplishment the job brings when a construction project reaches completion. I’m responsible for ensuring a project is being constructed as per the specifications, standards and technical documentation provided by a consulting engineer. Throughout the project, I liaise with the client, consultants, sub-contractors and suppliers on technical and structural aspects of the project. I also work alongside site management to ensure the right information is being communicated to the personnel carrying out the works.

“Sometimes things go wrong on a project and sometimes the design isn’t feasible – I love the process of working through issues that arise on site, and being able to propose ideas for resolution. I’m proud that only a year out of university I’m already the leading site engineer on my current project. I know I have much more to learn and more experience to gain, but I’m grateful for the responsibility I hold.”

Finding her path
As much as she now loves being an engineer, her original dream was a career as an architect, admits Kennedy who is of New Zealand European and Māori descent.

“I’ve always loved the process of designing a building, and learning about old and new methods of construction; particularly cultural buildings, like shrines and temples. Initially I pursued architecture, however then I realised that I was more technically inclined rather than being creative. I decided perhaps it’s best to use my skills and try architecture from a different angle; architectural engineering. Being an engineer has given me the best of both worlds – I can still be a part of the creative process but I can also help my fellow architecture lovers bring their big ideas to life!”

She thoroughly enjoyed studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Architectural Engineering and still has many fond memories of her time at AUT.

“One of the highlights for me was working in the project labs from early to late every day with my peers. It was so nice being able to study, relax and mingle with different people from all sorts of majors. When things got tough, you could always rely on someone in the lab to give you the friendly reminders you needed. I’m grateful to have shared some of the most challenging but amazing times with my cohort.

“My third and fourth year at uni was difficult for me in terms of my physical and mental health. I had to take some time off to recuperate and that inevitably set me back a little in my studies. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help from my course director, Associate Professor Mani Poshdar, and amazing lecturers like Dr Sherif Beskhyroun. They were patient, supportive, attentive and gave me time to heal. I dedicate all my success to them.”

Advice for other students
Kennedy, who graduated from AUT in 2024, has some great advice for other students who are thinking about studying engineering.

“Engineering is more than just running simulations, performing calculations or analysing structures for diagrams. It’s more than just sitting your exams. A big part of engineering is having people skills, being resilient to unforeseen incidents and being openminded to change. Engineering is a profession where you will continue to learn, even when you’ve been doing it for 20 years.”

Make connections while you’re at university, she adds.

“Connect with your peers, and establish a solid friend group who you can lean on over the next four years of your study. Work in a collaborative environment and get used to bouncing ideas off one another. Get to know your lecturers and course directors because, other than your parents and yourself, they’re the ones who want to see you walk that stage the most. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for additional help if you need it.

“Don’t forget to connect with industry professionals at AUT’s networking events – this is where you gain insider knowledge for the industry you’re wanting to get into. One day you’ll be working alongside these industry professionals, so it’s important to make the effort now.”