Southern Rural Water’s Aida Gibbons looks after some of Victoria’s largest structures, maintaining critical water infrastructure and ensuring essential water is delivered across the state.
As Principal Dam Engineer, Aida, who has worked as an engineer for around 18 years, has taken on an additional challenge of supporting the industry to take a step change towards diversity.
She was one of eight national applicants selected to sit on the Australian National Committee on Large Dams (ANCOLD) Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Working Group in 2023.
Originally from Iran, and being in a male-dominated industry, Aida was eager to create an easier pathway for women to enter the engineering industry.
“I applied to join the new Diversity, Equality and Inclusion working group because I see myself in the underrepresented group in dam engineering,” Aida said.
“I want to contribute to creating a more inclusive environment where diverse voices are heard and valued.”
According to 2023 Engineers Australia report, female engineers are currently increasing at an average of 2.4 percent every five years. Right now, female engineers make up 14 percent of the total Australian sector.
Aida’s parents played a large role in influencing and providing her with confidence, that she could study engineering. Being born and studying in Iran, Aida grew up with some of the world’s largest dams.
“My parents were teachers, and they encouraged me to study engineering. I studied in the University of Tehran, then worked for six years as a hydraulic engineer in Iran. After moving to Australia, I've worked for 12 years in the dam industry,” Aida said.
Aida’s background and overseas experience gives her the ability to see things differently, opening new perspectives, this is a good thing, because it often takes many great minds to solve the toughest challenges and deliver the best outcomes.
Aida says talent, passion and excellence comes in many forms and increasing diversity in the sector will unlock more productivity.
“When we embrace different perspectives, we create a stronger, more resilient industry that can adapt to challenges more effectively,” she said.
Supported by her fellow panelists, both men and women with international experience, this message will hopefully open the door for many more bright engineers from diverse backgrounds.
“This year, and beyond, we are committed to shaping a future where everyone in the dam and water infrastructure industry has an equal opportunity to contribute and thrive,” Aida said.
5 March 2025