Daniel Ruwangalegedara

Electrical Engineer (Building Services), AECOM
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Being able to gain practical skills and work on industry projects is what he enjoyed most about his studies, says Daniel Ruwangalegedara who came to AUT to study a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

“AUT provided immersive learning environments that gave us insights into the practical application of the theory we were learning through labs and workshops. During my time with AUT I managed to gain practical skills and work on industry projects that helped me stand out to employers when I was looking for internships and job roles. AUT’s career and employability services also helped me gain the skills to succeed in job interviews and market myself to employers effectively.”

Now working as a professional electrical engineer for AECOM, Daniel enjoys the broad scope working in the building industry offers.

“The thing I love most about my career is that the field of engineering that I’m working in – building services – enables me to produce electrical designs, both lighting and power, in several industries, including healthcare, aviation and defence. Rather than being in a singular sector, I’m able to encompass myself within a variety of building types and designs, which makes my job even more interesting.

“Another reason I enjoy my work is that I know that projects I get to work on are benefitting the wider communities around me in a meaningful way. I love the work I do because it also encompasses a lot of analysis, problem solving and mathematics, which are all things I’ve always really enjoyed. In addition to my full-time work as an engineer, I’ve also had a few achievements in my career as a professional athlete, including being a two-time King in the Ring finalist, holding the number one WBC Middleweight ranking in New Zealand and winning multiple national kickboxing championships.”

Making the most of uni life
Daniel, who graduated from AUT in 2022, still has fond memories of his time at university.

“AUT provided me with a great social environment that made it easy to make more friends and build connections. The staff and students are extremely friendly and helpful, which is due to the culture AUT has cultivated over the years.

“AUT is also quite big on entrepreneurship with events that encourage students to develop their business ideas. During some of my engineering projects we also had to innovate and create our own thing, which really opened my eyes to how to make your own product. If you utilised the equipment in the labs and design workshops at AUT, you could make a viable product ready for the shelf.”

He says being able to balance his studies with his sporting career was one of the reasons he decided to study engineering at AUT.

“Because of the study-life balance AUT provides I was able to pursue my academic career and athletic career, training and competing consistently throughout my studies and becoming a national kickboxing champion shortly after completion of my degree.”

Advice for other students
Daniel has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their university journey.

“Don’t feel overwhelmed by the things you study, especially if you want to pursue STEM subjects. Sometimes studying technical things might seem intimidating, but in hindsight you’ll realise how easy it is, especially if you put in the right effort and study smart. Everything will fall into place.”

Don’t be afraid to look for help, he adds.

“If you’re not sure of something, the lecturers at AUT are extremely supportive when you don’t have the answers, so don’t hesitate to seek guidance when you need it.”