Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) Senior Project Engineer Deborah Mallari has shared her story of a life well-lived in engineering and what it takes to rise up the ranks in this booming industry.
From growing up in the Philippines, to learning her field in Singapore and eventually moving to Australia, Deborah Mallari, Senior Project Engineer for Major Road Projects Victoria’s (MRPV) journey has been one of discovery and growth.
A 10-year veteran of the Victorian construction industry, she has been part of some of the state’s biggest projects including the Princes Highway Upgrade in Sale and the Monash Freeway Stage Two Upgrade.
It all started with a little encouragement from her family, which planted the seed that blossomed into a burgeoning career in engineering.
“When I was younger, my parents told me that I was good at maths compared to other subjects, so they encouraged me, as I had the potential to become a good engineer. As I got older, that became my aspiration,” Mallari says.
Her parents’ encouragement, as well as her skills in maths were not the only factors that pointed to a career in engineering. Mallari also knew that her leadership skills made her well suited to potentially lead a team of people.
“From a young age I was already thinking about how I could work in a managerial role when I grew up,” she says.
“My options were going into the health field and becoming a doctor or going into business and law, which didn’t interest me. Or I could use my maths skills and become an engineer.
“Those other careers didn’t interest me, so I was beyond happy to pursue a career in engineering.”
At first, Mallari wasn’t sure which field of engineering she wanted to pursue. With multiple options in mechanical, electrical and civil pathways, it took her some time to figure out the right path.
“When it came time to enrol, civil engineering felt like the right fit for me,” she says.
“I had never been as drawn to electrical or mechanical engineering, and civil just aligned more closely with my interests.”
It’s not just the building of impressive structures and roadways that interest her though – the importance of working with stakeholders and planning all aspects of the project have been an unexpected joy in her time as an engineer.
“I think one of the things that has stood out to me is the importance of proper planning in the project,” Mallari says.
“This includes engaging with all the relevant stakeholders and working with them through the planning and construction processes.
“One of the unique and interesting things that I did as part of VicRoads/MRPV is when I worked with the archaeologists in Traralgon where we did some salvaging works on Aboriginal artefacts.”
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Mallari says she found it important to be a part of compliance with the planning and environmental requirements prior to commencing works.
“I enjoyed partaking in the respectful act of how we value the culture and history of the people who lived there before,” she says.
“This is what I love in my job, because I’m getting the opportunity to work on different aspects of the project, as well as knowing other people in the design and construction fields.”
She’s risen in the ranks during her time at VicRoads and MRPV, becoming a Senior Project Engineer. She is now working on the Thompson Road and Berwick Cranbourne Road Intersection Upgrade.
“Being a Senior Project Engineer has helped me understand how to manage projects as a whole,” she says.
“It has also given me the opportunity to build connections in the construction industry, as well as influence other people, for the success and best outcome of the project.
“One of my big highlights working on major road projects is when we reached the completion of the project and fully opened up the road to the public.
“This gives me the feeling of joy and a sense of fulfilment in serving the community.”
Although she has found success in her career, starting off wasn’t easy.
“My time breaking into the industry was difficult, especially because engineering was, and still is, a heavily male-dominated industry,” she says.
“Although my journey wasn’t simple, I managed to overcome the challenges and enjoy every experience that I had through it, which made me want to become an engineer.”
Mallari says she has learnt that if you are clear about your goals you will succeed.
“I’ve learnt that if you know what you’re doing and understand your career path, you’ll be fine,” she says.
“It can be challenging at times, but if you have a genuine passion for what you do, it will carry you through.
“When you truly love your job, you’re better equipped to handle the challenges and difficult circumstances that come your way.”
For those who are anxious about breaking into the industry, Mallari says don’t be.
“You don’t have to do it all alone,” she says.
“Engineering is built on collaboration, and most projects are driven by teamwork. Don’t be afraid to lean on that.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with the MRPV team, who’ve supported me every step of the way. They’ve helped shape the person and professional that I am today, building my confidence and encouraging me to keep growing. Their belief in me has made all the difference.”
Mallari says she hopes to build a stronger engineering industry that’s more inviting for women. She’s also hoping to further decrease risk on site.
“One of my hopes in engineering is to encourage more women to join this field,” she says.
“I hope the construction industry will cooperate and adapt to the culture and initiatives within MRPV, which supports women and treats them fairly and with respect.
“Given that the construction industry is a high-risk environment, I also hope that there will be more safety innovations that will be introduced with the help of our evolving technology, that can significantly reduce any incidents during delivery on our projects.”
This article was originally published in the September edition of our magazine. To read the magazine, click here.
