IPWEA NSW & ACT Signs a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) NSW & ACT is delighted to announce the signing of a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). This strategic partnership will foster new professional pathways for engineering students, help address industry skills shortages, and promote excellence in public works across NSW and ACT.

Through this collaboration, IPWEA and UTS will offer UTS engineering students valuable internship opportunities in local government and public works, creating essential connections with the councils and organisations driving public infrastructure projects. This partnership recognises the importance of hands-on experience and aims to give students the practical skills needed to succeed in the sector.

A Commitment to Industry Collaboration and Innovation
The MOU, signed by IPWEA NSW & ACT CEO David Elliott and UTS Head of School of Professional Practice and Leadership Professor Eva Cheng, reflects both parties' dedication to industry collaboration. Beyond internships, the MOU will facilitate a wide range of joint activities, including collaborative research, professional development events, and knowledge-sharing initiatives to help address emerging public infrastructure challenges.

Under this partnership, IPWEA will work closely with UTS to promote the public works profession to students, sharing insights into the critical role engineers play in enhancing community wellbeing and resilience. Councils will also have the opportunity to engage with students by providing guest lectures, mentoring sessions, site visits, and workshops that deepen students' understanding of the sector and its importance to communities.

Addressing the Skills Shortage in Public Works
With Australia’s public works sector facing a growing demand for skilled professionals, this collaboration is an important step toward closing the skills gap. By developing the practical experience and professional readiness of engineering graduates, IPWEA and UTS aim to build a sustainable talent pipeline for the industry, ensuring that local government councils and other public works organisations have access to the skilled professionals they need to drive infrastructure projects forward.

Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Engineering
Both IPWEA and UTS are committed to fostering diversity in the engineering profession. This partnership will actively promote gender diversity through initiatives that support women in public works and engineering roles. By building an inclusive talent pool, this collaboration will help strengthen the sector's capacity to meet the needs of diverse communities.

Looking to the Future
This MOU represents a significant commitment to building a resilient future for public works across NSW and ACT. With initiatives that prioritise student learning, skills development, and industry innovation, IPWEA and UTS are creating a framework for sustained impact in the sector.

Together, IPWEA and UTS look forward to the many benefits this partnership will bring to the public works sector, students, and communities alike.