Lauren Wood

Process Engineer
Australian Paper Maryvale

Bachelor of Science

"The great thing about my job is the variety of different tasks”.

I started working at Australian Paper as a vacation student at the end of 2002. I continued working part-time through the final year of my degree on graduation I was offered the full time process engineering position on M4 paper machine. The role has been challenging, as paper manufacture is not something I studied, however the skills and knowledge I gained during my degree have equipped me to deal with these challenges. I am currently working on M1 Paper Machine and have had experience with machines 2 and 3 also.

My role includes a variety of day-to-day and occasional tasks including liasing with chemical suppliers to ensure chemical supplies to the machine are stable and within budget. My role also covers some aspects of quality control, monitoring of machine processes and runnabilty, trouble shooting, setting up chemical delivery systems for some grades, running trials of new chemicals and product development. Work includes conducting machine trials to assess the viability of making new grades to meet customer demands.

The great thing about my job is the variety of different tasks I am responsible for, and the fact that there is a great amount of opportunity for growth into the role and also for movement within the company.

I majored in applied chemistry with a minor in environmental science. I also completed the third year applied research project which was the most challenging part of my degree but also the most rewarding as it gave me experience in field and lab work, working independently and developed my analytical skills.

The aspect I enjoyed the most about studying at Monash Gippsland was the friendly and relaxed atmosphere. All the lecturers know you by name and are available to provide any assistance you may need. There is also a great social side to the campus and there are always plenty of things to do when you need a break from study.