Starting out as a graduate engineer often means balancing technical learning with real project experience and for Alex Ide, that balance has been a defining part of his journey so far at Robert Bird Group.
After completing a Bachelor of Civil and Infrastructure Engineering (Honours) at RMIT, Alex was drawn to RBG by the opportunity to work within a design consultancy environment, where technical rigour and collaboration sit at the core of every project.
Now part of the Structures team in Melbourne, Alex’s day‑to‑day work is varied and hands‑on. His role includes developing design packages for live projects, collaborating closely with his team to work through technical challenges, and continuing to build his knowledge through targeted and development opportunities.
One of the standout aspects of Alex’s graduate experience has been the opportunity to work across offices and projects in different states. This exposure has not only broadened his technical understanding but also helped him build a strong professional network beyond Victoria.
“I’ve had the opportunity to move offices to work on projects in different states, which introduced me to a whole new set of people I wouldn’t have otherwise worked with. It’s been great learning from people with different experiences and building a wider network.”
Support and development have also played a key role in shaping Alex’s experience. From approachable mentors and supportive peers to structured learning through the ANZ Graduate Development Program, Alex has found the environment encourages curiosity and growth.
“Everyone has been really open and excited to teach when questions are asked. Alongside that, the graduate development program has provided regular structured training sessions, which has been a great complement to project work. We’ve had great sessions with industry professionals, often covering areas beyond everyday technical skills, which I hadn’t expected when entering the role.”
For Alex, another unexpected aspect of graduate life at RBG has been the variety of engineering challenges encountered from week to week, reinforcing the dynamic nature of structural engineering in practice.
Above all, it’s the culture that has made the biggest impression.
“Everyone I work with is extremely supportive and a great source of knowledge. I’m very grateful to be able to learn from such experienced engineers.”
When asked what advice he would give to students or graduates considering a career at RBG, Alex’s response is simple and reflective of his own approach so far:
“Make the most of being a graduate. Be genuinely curious, ask all the questions you can, and gain as much as possible from the experience of those around you.”