Kate Ingham awarded Trimble Karahipi Hangarau/Technology Scholarship
Empowering engineering dreams
Kate Ingham is currently at Ara Te Pūkenga studying for a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil) degree. In a candid discussion, Kate sheds light on the profound impact of the Trimble Karahipi Hangarau/Technology Scholarship on her academic and career aspirations.
Emphasising the pivotal role of the scholarship in alleviating financial constraints, Kate shares, “This scholarship has definitely helped me financially as funds are tight as a student. Furthermore, Kate underscores the invaluable experience she has gained by connecting with the Trimble team, gaining insight into the diverse fields within the company. “The scholarship has allowed me to connect with some of the Trimble team and learn more about the huge variety of fields that the company works in, which is a really valuable experience,” she explains.
Reflecting on her journey, Kate acknowledges the transformative impact of the scholarship. “I have worked really hard on my studies at Ara, so it’s really validating and rewarding to receive the scholarship.”
Looking ahead, Kate embraces a dynamic approach to her future career, emphasising adaptability and continuous learning. “I don’t see a set in stone career path in my future. I think that making career changes will become more common, especially as technology changes, and the biggest strength we can have is to be adaptable and always learning new skills.”
Her interest in engineering, particularly in the realm of transportation, stems from a significant impact on the environment and people’s lives. Highlighting her aspirations, Kate shares “My dream job is one I find fulfilling, has different challenges and problems to solve every day, at a company that values a good work-life balance rather than a particular job title.”
Kate envisions herself working in a technical role, ideally securing an internship or graduate programme at an engineering consultancy. Inspired by her interactions with the Trimble team, she expresses her enthusiasm for the prospect of an internship at Trimble, having the opportunity to work across various departments and projects.
Driven by her family’s influence in STEM fields, Kate’s passion for engineering is deeply rooted. “I think I was naturally drawn to STEM subjects as my dad is a Chemist, my grandfather is an Aerodynamics Engineer, and my step-father is a Process Engineer.” Her commitment to STEM is further fueled by the promise of diversity and driving innovation, particularly highlighting the increasing representation of women in STEM fields and leadership positions.
Kate’s unwavering passion for STEM subjects was evident in high school, where she eagerly pursued physics, biology, chemistry, calculus and classics.
After high school, Kate gained experience in roading construction where she was involved in tasks such as running asphalt plants, working in crews, and performing quality assurance. This journey led her to progress to the role of Plant and Paving Supervisor. In 2022 she embarked on a new chapter enrolling at Ara. “I am thoroughly enjoying the change of pace and learning more aspects of civil engineering and design software such as CAD, Civil 3D and Revit,” Kate shares.
Two significant events greatly influenced Kate’s career path into engineering. The first was when she worked with her stepfather assisting in assembling an asphalt plant. This allowed her to appreciate the practical aspects of the work and gain insight into the intricacies of the components, including motors, electrical elements, and bitumen. The second event that shaped her was a life-altering car accident that left her eldest brother seriously disabled when she was younger. This personal experience ignited her passion for working in transportation, driving her desire to contribute to enhancing road safety.
Kate’s multifaceted interests extend beyond the academic field, as she finds joy in staying active, exploring nature and trail running with her partner Sophie. Her love for cooking and baking allows her to share her culinary creations with friends and family, showcasing her diverse talents and interests.
Kate’s journey is a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and passion for making a meaningful impact in the field of engineering. Her dedication to STEM subjects, diverse talents, and commitment to contributing to the engineering field showcase her as a remarkable individual with a promising future ahead.
