Stanley Willers

Stanley has graduated from two of EIT’s programs. He shares his experiences with us. 

In this article, we’ll explore how the combination of two programs at EIT, the 52859WA Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies complemented the 52886WA Advanced Diploma of Industrial Automation Engineering, complemented each other in our interviewee’s professional development. His recollections include standout moments, unexpected challenges, and the impact of balancing his studies with his other commitments.  

Additionally, we’ll learn about the pivotal choices made by our interviewee during his journey with EIT. Discover how they overcame uncertainties, pursued their passions, and found unforeseen career opportunities that led to professional growth and fulfillment. 

What was your experience like with the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT)? 

My experience at EIT was exceptionally enjoyable. The learning support officers and lecturers were incredibly helpful, providing valuable guidance throughout my studies. Even in a remote learning setting the EIT personal application interface proved to be user-friendly, easy to navigate, and comprehend. 

In addition to the provided study materials, EIT offered a wealth of resources like e-libraries, which further enriched my learning experience. The well-structured schedules for upcoming modules ensured a seamless learning process. 

The webinars covered a wide range of topics, and both lecturers and students actively engaged, creating a collaborative environment that facilitated understanding of complex subjects. EIT’s welcoming atmosphere contributed to a positive and conducive learning environment. 

The feedback received on assignments and exams proved to be invaluable, as it encouraged growth and learning from mistakes. Completing both EIT programs kept me challenged and engaged over the years, and I genuinely cherished the time spent with EIT.  

What specific skills or knowledge did you gain from each program, and how do they complement each other in your professional development? 

Throughout my experience with EIT, I completed a total of 27 modules in engineering studies. It is important to acknowledge that this comprehensive program did not transform me into an expert in every subject covered – no, that would be an unrealistic expectation. However, each module I completed equipped me with invaluable topic-specific knowledge essential for approaching and overcoming intricate engineering challenges. 

EIT’s curriculum fostered creativity and resourcefulness, enabling me to tackle complex engineering obstacles with confidence. The program provided me with the necessary “how-to” knowledge to implement engineering skills effectively.  

As a result of this comprehensive training, I have been able to successfully execute projects with efficiency and precision. 

Were there any unexpected challenges you faced while undertaking both programs and how did you overcome them? 

Striking a balance between a demanding professional career and spending quality time with family is undeniably challenging. We bear responsibilities towards both aspects of our lives, which can make the decision to embark on part-time studies a daunting endeavor. The process of research, introspection on the “What, Why, and When,” coupled with saving up for the course, demands considerable effort.  

Enrolling in a course necessitates a commitment to set timelines, the dedication to persevere through the workload, and the resilience to resist giving up – a journey fraught with moments where the thought of quitting crossed my mind during both programs. 

However, despite the difficulties, I set my goals, made promises to myself, and summoned the courage to push forward. I learned to adapt swiftly, drawing strength from within.  

Why did you opt to study for a 52859WA Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies after completing your 52886WA Advanced Diploma of Industrial Automation Engineering? 

The 52859WA Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies delved into a wide array of engineering topics, which I firmly believe will play a crucial role in meeting our future human energy demands.  

This qualification, much like the 52886WA Advanced Diploma of Industrial Automation Engineering, opens diverse career avenues across multiple engineering sectors. My belief is that a combination of these qualifications will prove advantageous in ensuring the effective design, deployment, and implementation of renewable energy sources.  

Can you highlight any standout moments or projects from each (or one) program that were particularly memorable or transformative for you? 

The most significant program for me was the Professional Engineering program. It offers a comprehensive understanding of the world’s current state and the immense impact, either positive or negative, that engineering decisions can have.  

Recognizing issues empowers us to act. It emphasizes the importance of engineering ethics, as improper practices can lead to enduring consequences that are challenging and expensive to rectify. As engineers, it is our responsibility to strive for improvement, rectify past damage, and actively work towards ensuring the sustainability of life on our planet. 

How did balancing the programs impact your time management and overall approach to learning? 

Time is an ever-elusive resource; we can never truly possess it, and it often feels insufficient to accomplish all our desires. However, amidst our busy lives, we manage to prioritize what is necessary and go above and beyond to address our responsibilities.  

Effective time management is the cornerstone of a well-balanced life, and it is essential to keep progressing toward our goals. As the famous saying goes, “Failure to plan is planning to fail.” Thus, even at a minimum, scheduling our daily lives is crucial to ensure that we make time for the things we truly desire and aspire to achieve. 

Were there any instructors or mentors who played a significant role in your journey through both programs at EIT? If so, how did they inspire or support you? 

Every module I undertook was tailored to a specific engineering field, and various lecturers provided their expertise for each subject. I had the privilege of interacting with supportive, understanding, and helpful lecturers from different corners of the world.  

Their unwavering support made a significant impact on my motivation to persevere and complete each field of study. I am deeply grateful to all the lecturers who inspired and guided me along this path, which I once believed to be beyond reach. Their dedication and encouragement have been instrumental in my academic journey, and I owe them my heartfelt thanks. 

Did your participation in both programs at EIT lead to any surprising career opportunities or professional growth that you hadn’t anticipated? 

Throughout most of my career, I dedicated myself to working tirelessly on power stations, accumulating a diverse background spanning 7 years in maintenance, 2 years in manufacturing, and 5 years in construction within the engineering field. My roles ranged from QA/QC positions to project coordinator positions, managing large projects. However, in 2015, I faced a setback when a contract ended, leaving me searching for employment without success. 

While continuing to apply for positions globally, I decided to pursue a course in photovoltaic systems and battery system designs. Although it didn’t immediately provide the sustainable opportunities I sought, it ignited a deep curiosity within me. In 2017, I reached a pivotal moment where I had to choose between persisting in a work-life imbalance, with uncertain job security, or taking a different path that aligned with my passion and support in the engineering field. I chose to study. 

My journey started with IT Engineering and project management, and in 2019, I enrolled with EIT Upon completing the 52886WA Advanced Diploma of Industrial Automation Engineering in 2021, a promising opportunity emerged, and I made a life-changing career shift at the age of 35, joining an EPC as a project manager. I feel incredibly fortunate to have remained with this company, and thanks to my 52859WA Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies from EIT, my abilities were recognized, leading to a transformation in my position within the company as a Lead Electrical Project Engineer. 

I cannot express enough gratitude to EIT for providing me with the opportunity to pursue my studies remotely and unlock career possibilities that I once deemed unattainable. This journey has been nothing short of transformative, and I am excited to continue making a difference in the engineering world with the knowledge and experience gained through EIT’s exceptional programs. 

How do you envision applying the knowledge and skills acquired from these two distinct programs in your future career aspirations? 

The experience, knowledge, and skills acquired through EIT have become integral to every facet of my life. As I mentioned earlier, I firmly believe that the combination of all my qualifications enables me to contribute significantly to the proper design, deployment, and implementation of renewable energy sources.  

Furthermore, I apply these skills to establish effective control systems that ensure safe working conditions, promote sustainability, and maximize returns on investments for such systems.  

Reflecting on your overall experience with EIT and the two programs you completed, what advice would you give to other students considering a similar path of diverse educational pursuits? 

To anyone, regardless of age, considering embarking on this transformative journey and making a difference in their life, I offer this advice: It may appear daunting or unattainable from your current standpoint, and feelings of uncertainty or self-doubt may arise.  

However, I assure you that it is not impossible. With self-motivation, dedication to your goals, and unwavering perseverance, you will find your own reward along the study path you choose to pursue. The key lies in believing in yourself, taking that chance, and embracing the opportunities that come your way.