#2: Sustainable Energy Engineer
Sustainable Energy Engineers use innovative technologies to improve energy efficiency and reduce the environmental and social impacts of conventional energy resources. They plan and manage projects in sustainable energy, conduct research into and apply engineering practices, and collect and communicate their findings and project results.
The demand for engineers and scientists with a postgraduate qualification in sustainable energy is growing rapidly. As investments and adoption of wind and solar energy grow, the job outlook for engineers who specialise in renewable energy continues to look strong.
RMIT alumnus and now Research Assistant Dr Steven Kennedy was working in petroleum engineering when he became inspired to make a difference in renewable energy engineering.
“I really thought about how important energy is in our daily lives and began to understand that in the not too distant future, energy would need to come from sources that are sustainable over the long-term.
“It was then that I realised I wanted to be a part of this renewable energy revolution.”
How to specialise in this field
Become part of the renewable energy revolution with RMIT’s Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Engineering. The course can be completed in as little as six months and upon completion, will guarantee your entry into the Master of Engineering (Sustainable Energy). The master's degree will prepare you to play a defining role in renewable energy and engineering by connecting you with industry-leading organisations like CSIRO, Melbourne Water and Acciona Energy.
Dr Bahman Shabani said the Master of Engineering (Sustainable Energy) at RMIT teaches the technologies and practices needed to lead some of the most critical jobs in sustainability.
“As part of the degree, students do a research project where they have the opportunity to focus on an area of interest, such as solar or wind energy, bioenergy, energy storage, energy efficiency and demand management, renewable energy government policy and more.
“Climate change, energy security issues, and economic drivers are all supporting further penetration of sustainable energy technologies.
“This puts an increasing demand for more professionals to lead the future of sustainable energy.”