Each year our Future Thinker of The Year awards brings together some of the most innovative, passionate and exciting up-and-coming voices in driving better futures through sustainability. Now in its sixth year, it’s safe to say that we’ve seen some inspiring young leaders go on to make their mark in the sector and become positive change-makers contributing to a greener built environment in Aotearoa.
Every year, our judging panel and the NZGBCD team is blown away by the diverse backgrounds and ambition of the nominees so through the “Future Thinkers, where are they now?” series we’re touching base with past finalists and winners, exploring the journey their careers have taken so far, their learnings, and thoughts on making the property and construction sectors more sustainable.
Hannah Wu
Hannah was a finalist in the 2020 Future of the Thinker of The Year awards, she is now a Sustainability Engineer at Aurecon, and holds a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Auckland.
What did you study and when did you graduate? Why did you choose this degree?
I studied Civil Engineering with mostly Structural Engineering papers. I chose this as I wanted to understand the structure of a building, and how the physics worked behind design.
What drives your passion for your mahi in the sustainability space?
The possibilities for new ideas, solutions, ways of thinking, and the challenge of making those practical and getting uptake from those industries and people on the ground. Sustainability has a large scope and is multifaceted, which can sometimes make it a complex challenge to tackle which is great for those who enjoy problem solving – especially when it is being driven by wanting better living outcomes for myself and communities.
What has been biggest professional challenge and how have you overcome it?
Making the decision to switch from a structural engineer to sustainability engineer – and adjusting to the new day to day tasks being a lot broader and higher level, and the different skillset needed for that. I think overcoming this adjustment just comes with continued experience in the role and an ongoing interest in sustainability.
What has been your career highlight so far?
Getting Green Star Accredited Professional (GSAP) registered! It was a bit overdue and was a gratifying way to consolidate my work experience and knowledge that I had gained so far.
What is the biggest challenge of bringing a low-carbon mindset to the property and construction industry?
I think it’s getting education, understanding, and experience across all teams and stakeholders, not just a few working groups or champions, so that low-carbon and sustainability ultimately becomes integrated into BAU rather than being a stand-alone area of expertise – it should be part of everyone’s toolkit and knowledge.
What actions can society and individuals take to continue to de-carbonise and create a more sustainable future?
Being curious and open-minded, having awareness and seeking education.
If you could give any advice to yourself five years ago, what would that be?
Pursue your strongest curiosities!
Lastly, what do you love about your mahi?
Since sustainability (can) interface with every aspect of a project, it means that I get to talk, learn, and work with a wide range of people, each with their own perspectives and expertise.
