The next generation of trenchless revealed

The Australasian Society for Trenchless Technology has announced the members of the inaugural Young Trenchless Professionals Committee.

The Young Trenchless Professionals (YTP) Committee will assist the Australasian Society for Trenchless Technology (ASTT) achieve its mission and strategic objective through improving member awareness and engagement, organising trenchless forums and providing input to council on industry trends and changes.

“The ASTT understands the importance young trenchless professionals play in leading trenchless technology into the future,” ASTT Victorian councillor Ash Hamer said. 

“This new committee will enable us access new ideas and innovation through the next generation.” 

YTP Committee Members:

• Ananthakrishna Nagesh

• Andrew Smith

• Bilal Abdullah

• Cameron Balemi

• Dillon Van Heer

• Fawaaz Farook

• James Holland

• John Rutherford

• Lachlan Curren

• Lachlan Horlyck

• Marc Luksch

• Mohit Soni

• Ozge Aslan 

The committee formation was led by Hamer who first joined the industry over 15 years ago through his graduate role at Baulderstone on Melbourne Water’s Water Resources Alliance. 

“I still remember my first day walking into the Kodak Building on Victoria Parade not knowing what to expect and I’ve been in the water industry ever since, and it’s a big reminder to me that we all start somewhere and the importance of engaging with the younger generation and future leaders of the ASTT” he said. 

Currently, Hamer leads the asset delivery division at Yarra Valley Water. 

“I’ve been lucky to work on some amazing trenchless projects like the Lockerbie and Epping Main Sewers that have all demonstrated how critical trenchless technology is to the water industry,” he said. 

“The water industry has a knack of making you love it, so I’m well invested in it.  And it’s an exciting time for trenchless technology given the growth in the industry”.

Hamer commended the members for putting their hands up for the committee. 

“I’ve been really impressed by the level of enthusiasm and passion that each of these amazing individuals have shown for leading and promoting trenchless technology, and looking forward to seeing what the group can accomplish,” he said.

Hamer said the committee will work collectively with the ASTT to generate new and innovative ideas to setup for a successfu future. 

“The committee will work on strategies and initiatives to advocate and support the leadership of trenchless technology,” he said. 

“This could look like organising networking events or trenchless forums. 

“Ultimately it will be up to the committee with where they want to focus on, which is an exciting opportunity to a part of.” 

In return, members will benefit from a wealth of opportunities such as professional development, networking opportunities, knowledge sharing, mentoring and coaching opportunities. 

Over the coming months, the YTP Committee will come together to work on key focus areas for the ASTT. This will commence with a strategy session in April and engaging with AWA’s Young Water Professionals who will provide insights into how an established committee operates.

If you have any suggestions or ideas for the YTP to explore, reach out to the committee.

For more information, visit the ASTT website.

This article featured in the April edition of Trenchless Australasia.