Harper Sercombe
Craigieburn local Sajad Mehdi is one of 100 graduates who is now working on Victoria’s big build.
Mr Mehdi began working on the Craigieburn Road Upgrade project team this year.
As a local, Mr Mehdi said he dreamed of being the one who would build big structures people would rely on. Now, he is applying a love of science and mathematics to do just that in the suburb where he grew up in.
“I’ve grown up around here and watched how my community has evolved, and I’m just so rapt to be working on a project that is going to make a real difference to so many people I know,” he said.
As part of this year’s graduate program intake, Mr Mehdi will undertake a two-year program featuring structured learning and development opportunities as well as career planning to prepare for the next step in his professional life.
He will develop technical and workforce skills, working alongside industry leaders and learning from experts eager to help and guide the next generation of talent.
“I love the people I work with who are talented, resourceful and smart and who champion the importance of graduates like me learning under expert guidance and are committed to the success of the project,” he said.
Mr Mehdi always wanted to turn his mind to road projects and ultimately step onto the path of becoming a project manager.
“It’s been exciting to start my career as we get on with the Craigieburn Road Upgrade project, relocating and renewing several kilometres of underground services as we build new lanes and transform intersections,” he said.
The big build graduate program is recognised by the Australian Association of Graduate Employers as one of the country’s best workplaces for graduates.
Job specialties across Victoria’s big build include engineering, graphic design, human resources, information systems, land planning and environment, and law.
More than 1600 graduates applied to be part of the 2023 cohort, with 154 making it through to hiring.
Applications to be part of the 2025 graduate program will open soon.
Details:bigbuild.vic.gov.au/grads
