From graduate to Heavy Lift engineer

For Sean, engineering is about more than calculations and drawings - it’s about seeing complex plans transformed into real outcomes.

Born in Dublin, Sean moved to Perth with his family almost 20 years ago and has called Western Australia home ever since. After studying Civil and Construction Engineering at Curtin University, he joined Monadelphous as a graduate in 2024 and has since found his place in the specialised world of heavy lift operations.

Sean recently completed a secondment with Alevro as a Project Engineer on Project Ceres, supporting the planning and execution of heavy lift and transport activities. His role spans engineering, planning and field work, from coordinating engineering deliverables and site teams to conducting walkdowns, route inspections and site surveys.

While Sean gained experience in consulting and construction during university, he said it was exposure to heavy lift operations that sparked his interest.

"I found the heavy lift activities to be one of the most impressive aspects of the operation and made a conscious effort to spend time with those executing them, learning from their experience and gaining insight into this highly specialised field," Sean said.

One of the things Sean said he values most about Alevro is the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals while being trusted with meaningful responsibilities from the start.

"As a graduate, I was given the opportunity to develop solutions independently while still being supported by experienced professionals whose guidance I can rely on when needed," he said.

That support has also helped shape one of the biggest lessons he's learned so far: the importance of collaboration.

"There are many ways to solve an engineering problem, but the best solutions are developed collaboratively with experienced operators and technicians," Sean said.

"Their practical knowledge helps ensure solutions are not only technically sound, but also achievable in the field."

The Monadelphous Graduate Program has already provided Sean with valuable project experience, including a trip to Karratha to support works on the Dampier Peninsula.

"It was particularly exciting as it was the furthest I had travelled within Australia. Working in such a unique landscape and experiencing the incredible sunrises and sunsets made it a very memorable experience," he said.

Outside of work, Sean enjoys cooking for family and friends, exploring Perth’s food scene and staying active through swimming, running and cycling.

Looking ahead, he is focused on broadening his experience across the Monadelphous Group through a graduate rotation with Melchor, while continuing to develop his expertise in heavy lift engineering.

For graduates considering a career in the industry, Sean believes the combination of engineering, logistics and operational execution creates unique opportunities.

"The solutions you develop directly translate to large-scale physical achievements, which makes every day on site exciting," he said.

As Sean continues to develop his career, he is already demonstrating the curiosity, drive and collaborative mindset that will help shape the next generation of engineers.