Dianne Shearer - a career in Civil Engineering

Dianne originally joined Marlborough District Council as a Building Control Officer.  Now, 15 years and several job roles later, she is employed as an Engineering Officer and is working towards a National Diploma in Civil Engineering (Applied).

Dianne decided to work towards the National Diploma in order to increase her existing knowledge and to develop new skills, particularly in engineering theory.  She explains “I’ve just completed the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Civil) which is the theoretical component of the qualification.  I did this via distance learning through the New Zealand Institute of Highway Technology. 

“The theory component been extremely useful for my current role.  I’ve learned a great deal, particularly in terms of contract administration and tender processes.  These can have lots of legal implications, so you need to have the right knowledge for the job.  District Councils are more open to scrutiny by the public because we’re spending taxpayer’s money, so you have to be on the ball."

Dianne continues “The next stage is to complete the Applied Skills section, which will be done through practical work and on-job training.  I hope to complete this by the end of next year.” 

Marlborough District Council is one of only four Unitary Authorities in New Zealand and is responsible for a wide range of projects.  Because of this, Dianne will have lots of opportunities available to her once she completes the National Diploma and becomes a qualified Civil Engineering Technician. 

She says “There are always lots of interesting projects coming up, for example, upgrades to water and sewerage treatment in Blenheim.  The thing I really enjoy about civil engineering is the variety.  It’s always changing, and the National Diploma will give me the skills and knowledge I need to reach my full potential."

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