Tamara Stratton

Hi, I’m Tamara and I'm an engineer working towards leading growth in the field of humanitarian engineering.

I completed my Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) at Canterbury University, majoring in Chemical and Process Engineering, alongside a diploma in Global Humanitarian Engineering, last year. This year I have started a role with WSP in the Water team, working to build up engineering expertise and experience in the professional world.

In the future, I plan to work with Engineers Without Borders or a related organization where I will work to create positive change through engineering design to help the developing world and those in need in the community. Alongside this practical work I am seeking to change the attitude towards humanitarian engineering, making it a more attractive and accessible route for upcoming engineers, especially in powerful engineering companies. 

I have had the privilege of being a member of a team who went to Tonga to install water filtration systems at several schools, this fueled my passion for humanitarian engineering, and I am practicing my Spanish to be able to attend a trip to Colombia next year. To better equip myself in the social science aspect of humanitarian engineering I have recently started a Master of Arts research project which is focused on a humanitarian engineering project for communities in Palestine. This study is giving me the opportunity to explore the different aspects of culture, context, sociology, and other factors influencing the development and potential implementation of the project. 

I have always had a passion for leading projects that will help others, and love serving in the community. Over the years this has taken many roles from being a youth ambassador for Save the Children and volunteering at a local art gallery, to providing first aid at local events. With St John youth I also received the Grand Prior Award and completed a half marathon as a fundraiser for the charity. Through my involvement with youth councils, I have been a leader in charge of organizing and facilitating youth art events and also held a national leadership position with Students Against Dangerous Driving. Additionally, I have completed the Duke of Edinburgh Gold award and attended the Rotary Young Leaders Award Conference. Through my work as the Regional Manager for the nationwide tutoring company Inspiration Education, I was able to establish a free tutoring programme for selected local schools. Also through this company, I have played a key role in the development of other initiatives working towards equitable access to educational support and resources.

I continue to serve the community, primarily through my involvement with church outreach programmes engaging with different members of the community, as well as volunteering with Ecocare which is an NGO focused on the development of Pacific communities through a process of consultation and collaboration. I recently started my volunteer journey with the Red Cross, as a member of their Disaster Welfare and Support Team. This role involves weekly training sessions which are helping to equip me for future placement in post-disaster communities.

In my spare time I enjoy being outdoors, a new hobby of mine is rogaining, and I tramp and trail run when the time is available.

The Pinnacle Programme has been an incredible support to me as I continue to grow and pursue my goals and I encourage any passionate high school student to apply.