Get acquainted with Rahoi Buskens and delve deep into what inspired her to become an engineer, what amazing places her journey has taken her, and also her insights into the future of engineering and why ‘giving back’ through ‘engineering with purpose’ continues to drive her.
From numbers to nation-building
Rahoi’s journey into engineering began with a love for numbers. “I originally thought I’d go into accounting,” she recalls. “But my maths teacher suggested engineering, he said it was a good career where you can solve problems using numbers and design solutions.” That advice, combined with exposure to a design and construction project for a volunteering organisation, sparked a desire in Rahoi to use her skills, not just for a career, but to give back; a constant theme in her journey.
“I saw a video about a sustainable building project that won awards. It was a volunteer initiative, and I thought, that’s something I’d love to do when I’m more experienced.”
The project that stoked the flames of Rahoi’s passion was the construction of a new admin facility for a religious organisation in the UK. The project received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environment Assessment Method), the highest certification for a sustainable design.
On site and in the thick of It
Now a site engineer working on a defence project in Townsville, Rahoi’s role is multifaceted. “It’s a construct-only project, so we’re not doing a full design, but there’s still a lot of technical problem solving,” she explains. “I assist the project manager, coordinate subcontractors, and ensure quality standards are met.”
She describes herself as still learning, often leaning on the experience of site managers and project leads. “It’s a team effort. I’m involved in technical queries, coordination, and even a bit of contract management.”
Challenges and growth
Being a young woman in a male-dominated industry hasn’t always been easy. “Sometimes you’re not taken seriously at first,” Rahoi admits. “And I’m not naturally assertive, which can be tough in a high-stress environment.”
But she’s learning to adapt. “I’ve had to push myself to ask questions, to learn from others, even when they’re busy. It’s about being more assertive and confident in what I bring to the table.”
A project that changed everything
One of Rahoi’s most formative experiences came early in her career, the Naoro Brown Hydroelectric Project, a hydroelectric dam project in the Hiri Koiari district in Papua New Guinea. “I was a graduate engineer, and I was sent to coordinate a camp in the middle of nowhere. We had to fly in by chopper.”
She managed logistics, liaised with local villagers, and supported teams conducting environmental impact assessments. “It was challenging, but also beautiful. We had no mobile phones, just satellite communication. We connected around campfires, shared stories, and built something meaningful together.”
Years later, she saw the dam completed in a newspaper. “It felt amazing to know I played a part in that. It wasn’t just engineering, it was community, culture, and impact. I just knew that so many people would benefit from it.”
FUN FACT: Rahoi’s camp was located near The Kokoda Track and could be seen from her window. The track is historically significant as the site of battles between Australian and Japanese forces during World War II. It is also a popular trekking destination, known for its challenging terrain, beautiful scenery, and cultural experiences with local communities.
Safety, skills, and staying sharp
As with many in the industry, Rahoi is meticulous about safety. “I do regular task inspections. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s essential. You want everyone to go home safe.”
In terms of the future, she sees potential in AI. “If AI could read project technical documents such as specifications and drawings to help answer technical questions, that would be a game changer. It could really improve efficiency,” Rahoi muses.
To stay current, she taps into Engineers Australia resources and listens to podcasts. “I don’t have time to read much as I’m either commuting or busy with day-to-day activities, so audio content helps me keep up.” Her favourite episode from the Builder Tactics: A practical guide to Construction Management by Damien Edwards being Episode 54 is aptly titled ‘How to Gain Respect as the New Guy.’
Leadership in action
Rahoi believes effective communication starts with slowing down. “When I’m stressed, I try to pause, define the problem, and think before I speak. That’s helped me avoid miscommunication and build trust.”
She recalls a moment when she received a stressful RFI (Request for Information). “I went for a walk, calmed down, and realised it wasn’t a big issue. She remembers laughing about it down the line “It actually wasn’t that bad. Learning to manage stress now, can benefit my health in the long run.”
Advice for aspiring engineers
“Just go for it, if it scares you, do it!” Rahoi says. “Even if you feel limited, put yourself out there. You’ll learn. I used to be intimidated by experienced people, but now I’m comfortable on site. It’s about starting somewhere and growing from there.”
More than a job
For Rahoi, engineering is just one part of a bigger picture. “I’m doing this to make a living, but what fulfils me is giving back. Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, or just helping someone grow.”
She’s driven by curiosity. “What keeps me passionate is not knowing something. If I don’t understand it, I want to learn. That’s what keeps the fire burning.
