Graduate – design engineering

Michael Chen is a living example of what happens when you’re proactive.

Mid-way through his second year studying engineering at the University of Technology, Michael decided he wanted practical experience.

“I wanted to know where I was heading with my degree – a double degree in engineering and mechatronic engineering – so I started researching engineering companies and thinking about who I’d like to work for,” Michael recalled.

By chance, Michael also spent most days travelling by the ResMed site – a $75 million complex with outdoor work areas, bush jogging track, gym, cafes, and large open plan offices. ResMed creates medical devices to help sleep disordered breathing and is a global leader in its field.

“I wondered what kind of company it was because of their amazing building and facilities,” he said.

“I went on the internet and found out they were right up my alley doing engineering design. So I simply sent in my resume and cover letter and university transcripts.”

“The cover letter displayed my intentions; that I wanted to secure work experience with them and develop my engineering skills,” he said

Hearing nothing back, Michael continued to work in retail but six months later he received a phone call “out of the blue” telling him he was one of five students selected for a three-month vacation work experience program at ResMed.

Michael was then employed as a casual so he could work at ResMed and study before being invited to a final interview to secure his current full time role.

In interview having “the right attitude” trumps grades, Michael advised. “You need integrity, honesty, to be hard working, have good team skills and be a great communicator.”

 “What’s good about ResMed is they don’t just make you do office work. You join an engineering team and they make use of your problem solving skills,” Michael said.

“They got me straight on to an innovative piece of technology and I got to learn about it and see how to apply this technology to improve our masks,” he said

“They want to hear what you say. You are treated like any of the other engineers working at ResMed but just [with] more support,” Michael said.