Relocating from India to pursue his passion for sustainability, Rohit Menon has built valuable expertise in Australia's water industry through the Major Industrial Project Placement Scheme Scholarship (MIPPS). A Master of Professional Engineering (Sustainability and Environmental Engineering) student at the University of Sydney, Rohit completed his industry placement at Goldenfields Water, where he developed technical skills in environmental engineering while gaining hands-on experience with water infrastructure across regional NSW.
What motivated you to apply for the MIPPS program?
When I started my degree at the University of Sydney, MIPPS was one of the first programs I came across. I saw it as a great way to understand the industry culture in Australia and apply what I've learnt in a real-world setting. I was also drawn to the challenge of managing both industry and academic expectations simultaneously.
What was your experience with the program?
My experience with this program involved using a lot of new software, researching existing practices, and developing a dashboard for Goldenfields Water. While much of my work was at my desk, I also had the chance to get out into the field, which provided me with a deeper understanding of how things operate in practice. I've learnt so much through this experience, and I'm grateful for the skills and insights I've gained.
One highlight was travelling through different landscapes in NSW, from towns to remote areas, and seeing the complex infrastructure that ensures even the most isolated communities have access to water. It made me appreciate the practical side of our work and how it impacts communities.
What were the biggest challenges, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was moving to a regional town and settling into a completely new environment, while also having to hit the ground running because MIPPS is only six months. Getting used to all the industry jargon and ways of working was also a steep learning curve.
I made it easier by getting involved in the local community and immersing myself in the culture. Having a plan was key; I kept checking in to make sure I was sticking to it, and I wasn't afraid to ask questions or reach out for help when I needed it.
What skills did you develop during your program?
During the program, I developed a lot of practical and professional skills. I became confident using new software and tools, improved my research abilities, and learnt how to turn data into clear and valuable insights through dashboard development. I also improved my planning and time management, especially when balancing independent work with field visits.
Additionally, I improved my communication skills by learning to explain technical concepts clearly and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds. These skills will be highly beneficial as I pursue my career in water engineering.
This placement has cemented my determination to build a career in the water sector, where every day offers the chance to combine technical expertise with hands-on experience that genuinely matters.
Rohit Menon
Master of Professional Engineering (Sustainability and Environmental Engineering) student
How has the MIPPS program influenced your career goals or plans?
The program gave me an eye-opening insight into the water industry and revealed how fulfilling this career path can be. What really excited me was the field work and experiencing the practical realities of water infrastructure, and seeing its direct impact on communities made the work feel incredibly purposeful. This placement has cemented my determination to build a career in the water sector, where every day offers the chance to combine technical expertise with hands-on experience that genuinely matters.
Do you have any advice for other students wanting to take part in the ESIPS program?
Always be prepared for change and ready to step out of your comfort zone. The program is very different from a regular university semester, as you are managing your industrial expectations and thesis at the same time.
Many placements are in regional towns, so it is crucial to approach them with an open mind. You will gain a new perspective on life and might even find yourself wanting to work in these settings in the future. Every project is unique, so focus on making the most of your own experience. Be active, ask questions, and take every opportunity to learn from the people around you.