In each issue, ABHR profiles a member of the Australian Society for Bulk Solids Handling (ASBSH). We speak to Jayne O’Shea, a Consulting Engineer for TUNRA Bulk Solids (TBS).
I have been a member of ASBSH since…
July 2020
I am a member of ASBSH because…
we don’t always get to see the whole picture, so platforms like this that publish information and innovations from all aspects of materials handling are useful. It’s a good form of communication between suppliers, engineers and the end user of bulk handling systems.
I got into bulk handling because…
I received a University of Newcastle Industry Scholarship Scheme (UNISS) scholarship with TUNRA Bulk Solids during my undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering. I was introduced to bulk handling working in the TBS lab in the first year of my degree back in 2005 and have been in the industry ever since as I enjoy the work and the people.
I am currently researching …
improvements that can be made to various materials testing practices, equipment and analysis methods to help characterise bulk materials and learn more about how a material behaves in different circumstances. Continuous improvements in technology means there are always new, different or more efficient ways we can analyse a material so we can better predict behaviour.
I love my current work because…
There is large variety in what I get to do as a Consulting Engineer with TUNRA Bulk solids working on real world problems. We work with various types of bulk handling systems and materials from different industries and countries. I get to use many different analytical tools such as fundamental analysis, simulation techniques and scale modelling. I also get to carry out research, design and participate in courses ran by TBS. I am surrounded by people that have been in the industry for a long time that are still passionate about it.
In my role it’s important to…
collaborate. It’s exciting what skills and technology can be translated from unexpected sources, not only in the engineering sector. It is also important to always be learning.
The project I am most proud of is…
probably finishing my PhD among everything else that was going on in my life at the time.
My career highlight is…
being awarded the AW Roberts Award in 2019, especially considering I have the opportunity to actually work with Prof Alan Roberts.
I am inspired by …
passionate people. Being around passionate people who love what they do is infectious in the best possible way.
The most valuable lesson I have learned is …
to listen to everyone and then make up your own mind.
My plans for the future are …
to keep learning as much as possible.
When I am not working you will probably find me…
parenting. I have three kids aged six and under, so when I’m not working, I am being mum.
For more information about ASBSH and how to join, click here.