Swinburne software engineering graduate nominated for space award

Swinburne software engineering graduate, Mikaela Verhoosel, has been shortlisted for ‘Graduate of the Year’ at this year’s Australian Space Awards.

Mikaela graduated from the Bachelor of Robotics and Mechatronic Engineering (Honours) in 2018. During her studies, she was an active volunteer and mentor – taking on experiences that enriched her time at Swinburne.

Mikaela volunteered as a mentor for the Swinburne Youth Space Innovation Challenge (previously known as SHINE), which provides an opportunity for high school students to send experiments to the International Space Station and inspires them to imagine a career in space.

As a mentor, she supported students around the fabrication and feasibility of design, microcontrollers and programming.

‘It demonstrates what can be possible, not only for the students to learn about the full cycle of an experiment but the real-life struggles of bringing a design into a fully functioning prototype,’ she says.

As Swinburne’s campus coordinator for Engineers Australia, Mikaela also helped to contribute to the professional and personal development of engineering students by involving them in activities run by the organisation.

Swinburne stars at Australian Space Awards

Mikaela was one of three Swinburne finalists in this year’s Australian Space Awards, which celebrate the efforts of the best and brightest in the Australian space industry and recognise the leading individuals and businesses driving the development of Australia’s space economy.

Leader of Swinburne Youth Space Innovation Challenge, Dr Rebecca Allen, was shortlisted for ‘Space Education and Outreach Program of the Year’. It was Dr Allen that suggested Mikaela should apply.

‘Being shortlisted came as a surprise. It is a great opportunity to reflect on past achievements and look to the future of what is next to come,’ says Mikaela.

International Lawyer and Space Research scientist, Kim Ellis was a finalist for the ‘Academic of the Year’ category. 

Dr Rebecca Allen (right) was shortlisted for her work with the Swinburne Youth Space Innovation Challenge

Following your dreams

Mikaela is enjoying her role as a graduate software engineer at professional services consulting company Geoplex, where she is working on a satellite communication asset management tool for the Department of Defence called ‘TacPlanner’.

‘I hope to continually challenge myself professionally and personally to eventually lead projects that will bring about positive change,’ she says.

She loves her job, including its challenges.

‘Like any career, there will be highlights and days that leave you wanting to pursue a nomadic van life. Know that both days are two sides of the same coin and by wading through you will come out a stronger individual.’

Mikaela believes diversity in STEM fields is important so that solutions cater to everyone. She hopes anyone interested in STEM follows their passion, saying ‘hard work and seizing opportunities’ are the best ways to advance your career.

‘If this is a career you are thinking of pursuing, then what I would do is to not let your fears overcome your desire to join what is a great industry and community.’