EIT Honors the Next Generation of Engineers at Brisbane Graduation

The Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) celebrated a landmark moment on 19th June 2026 as graduates crossed the stage in Brisbane for the institute’s first graduation ceremony in the city, marking a significant milestone in EIT’s continued growth and expanding presence in Queensland.

Held at the Rydges South Bank Brisbane, the ceremony brought together graduates, their families, academic staff, and industry leaders to recognize the achievements of EIT students from across Australia and around the world. The event honored 29 graduates, many of whom balanced their studies alongside demanding careers, family commitments, and other responsibilities. Among the graduating cohorts were both emerging engineers and experienced professionals. While some graduates are beginning the next stage of their careers, others completed further qualifications with EIT to broaden their expertise or pursue new opportunities. Together, they reflected the breadth of experience and ambition within EIT’s global student community.

Voices of Leadership

Guided by the theme, “Engineering Skills for an Ever-Evolving World“, the ceremony opened with a welcome address by Paul Celenza, EIT VET College Manager, setting the tone for an afternoon that celebrated both achievement and the future of the engineering profession. This message was carried forward in the keynote address by Brooke Veliscek, President – QLD Division Committee, Engineers Australia, who congratulated graduates on their achievements and reflected on the vital role engineers play in shaping a more sustainable, innovative, and resilient future.

Following the keynote address, the ceremony included a graduate reflection from 52886WA Advanced Diploma of Industrial Automation Engineering graduate Elton Sekewa, who shared the personal and professional challenges he encountered throughout his studies. He also reflected on how determination, perseverance, and the support of EIT’s academic and student support teams helped him overcome each obstacle and achieve his goal.

“Studying at the Engineering Institute of Technology meant far more than simply earning a qualification. EIT gave me an opportunity to continue growing professionally while balancing the realities of a demanding career. It provided a pathway for me, a working professional separated by oceans, time zones, and long work rotations. EIT taught me the importance of discipline, resilience, and lifelong learning.” Elton’s story resonated with graduates and guests alike, serving as a powerful reminder that success is measured not only by academic achievement but also by resilience.

Celebrating Excellence

The ceremony also recognized graduates who demonstrated exceptional achievement through EIT’s 2026 Graduate Special Awards. Presented by Nicole Davis, EIT Chief Financial Officer, the awards celebrated students whose accomplishments reflected academic excellence, resilience, adaptability, and professional growth. The 2026 Graduate Special Award recipients were:

The celebration also recognized the dedication and impact of EIT’s academic staff through the 2025/26 Teaching Excellence Awards, honoring lecturers who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to student learning and success. The 2025/26 Teaching Excellence Award recipients were:

Strengthening Connections

Industry support was evident throughout the event, with representatives from Engineers Australia, Queensland Health, and Energy Queensland joining EIT in celebrating the graduates’ achievements and reinforcing the strong connection between engineering education and industry. Distinguished guests included Helen Lawrence – EIT Governance Board Member, Brooke Veliscek – President, QLD Division of Engineers Australia,

Darren Beattie – General Manager, Queensland Division of Engineers Australia, Nathan Norman of Queensland Health, and Peter Helliar, Jack Politch, and Jon Haynes of Energy Queensland.

EIT’s Growing Commitment

Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, EIT described the Brisbane graduation as an important milestone in the institute’s continued growth in Queensland, underscoring its commitment to delivering practical, industry-focused engineering education close to where students live and work. With campuses across Australia and students from more than 160 countries, EIT continues to equip engineers with the practical skills, technical knowledge, and professional confidence needed to meet the evolving needs of industry.