Sithum Nanayakkara
Graduate Engineer, Fonterra
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Mechatronics Engineering
He has a desire to help others, says Sithum Nanayakkara who came to AUT as an international student from Sri Lanka to study a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Mechatronics Engineering.
“What I liked about studying mechatronics engineering is that it combines mechanical, electrical, computer and software engineering, and didn’t restrict me to one path in engineering. I could explore a much broader area and use a variety of knowledge to contribute towards the betterment of the world using my engineering knowledge.”
Now working at Fonterra, he loves being part of the company’s sought-after graduate programme and being able to explore different aspects of Fonterra’s operations.
“As part of the graduate programme, we go through four different areas of engineering. Operations involves understanding the entire sites process, from receiving milk from farms to producing a range of products; a complex process that includes working with the maintenance, utilities and wastewater teams. Technical engineering focuses on projects to solve problems around the region with the help of various subject matter experts. Capital projects teaches us about the behind-the-scenes work of installing new equipment at our sites. We learn to be engineering project managers, handling awesome projects across the country. Finally, asset management involves overseeing and managing assets to ensure their optimal performance and longevity.
“What I love about Fonterra is that the organisation has some awesome people and talented engineers from diverse backgrounds. The opportunities here are limitless, allowing you to pursue your passions and learn from the best in the industry.”
Making the most of the opportunities
Sithum says he thoroughly enjoyed his studies at AUT.
“What I enjoyed most about studying were the people I’ve met and all the opportunities studying in New Zealand brought me. This allowed me to get out of my comfort zone, and improve and learn new skills. I also appreciated the hands-on nature of some of the courses. That was enjoyable and fascinating. Being able to put the theory you’ve learnt into a working model is what makes engineering fun. This hands-on experience further boosts your confidence as you know you can tackle real-life problems thrown at you once you go out into the industry.”
There were a couple of services for AUT students he particularly appreciated.
“AUT’s Employability Lab is one of the must-visit services to improve your CV or get help writing cover letters. I’m 100% sure that getting help from the Elab team will boost your chances of getting into a good internship or job. Their almost weekly employer information sessions also provide a good opportunity to meet the industry and talk to your future employers.
“Finally, completing the AUT Edge Award is a must if you want to stand out to employers as it helps you develop all the skills employers like.”
Advice for other students
The advice Sithum would give other students is simple: say yes to new opportunities.
“Getting out of your comfort zone is the best way to improve your skills and stand out from others. This not only helps create more connections, which will lead to even better opportunities, but it makes you feel more connected to the people and New Zealand as an international student. I’m proud of myself for reaching out and tackling new opportunities – it made my university life so much better.”
He says he would highly recommend AUT’s mechatronics engineering degree.
“If you’re a person who wants to have a wide range of knowledge and not be restricted by one engineering major, mechatronics has a lot to offer. Even if you feel that the degree is getting tough, there’s always help waiting to be provided by your lecturers and other staff, the Student Hub and a lot more student support services. Knowing that there’s always someone to reach out to is a great comfort.”
