Our Committee

Vincent began his career as a building services engineer, observing fire engineering from the periphery. His journey into fire engineering took a significant turn when he met Origin Fire Consultants at an industry event through SIGIE. Now, Vincent is an integral part of the Origin Fire team, providing Passive Fire design, remedial solutions, and construction monitoring services. He also supports litigation matters, ensures compliance with the Building Code, and oversees the financial aspects of the company. Additionally, as a Health & Safety manager, Vincent is committed to maintaining a safe workplace. Vincent has been with the SIGIE committee since 2019 and has served in various roles, such as Vice Chair, Secretary & Treasurer. In 2024, Vincent was awarded “Emerging Professional Engineer” at FireNZ for his volunteering efforts and his contribution to the fire engineering industry in NZ.​

Ken Hu is a Structural Engineering Director at Babbage Consultants Ltd. With almost two decades of experience spanning structural engineering, project management, R&D, and client engagement, Ken has shaped iconic projects across New Zealand and internationally – ranging from skyscraper structures and seismic upgrades to cutting-edge base-isolation and energy-dissipation systems. His dedication to innovation is demonstrated by multiple engineering patents and over 30 academic publications as first author, including one indexed by SCI and several by EI. He has led or contributed to the engineering design, management, and delivery of numerous landmark architectural projects, earning multiple international awards for his work. As a leader, Ken is known for his ‘people-first’ philosophy – upholding high standards while fostering a relaxed and collaborative team environment. His ability to guide and develop high-performing teams has earned him the trust and respect of clients and colleagues alike. Beyond his professional achievements, Ken is a dedicated advocate for the engineering community in New Zealand, with a particular focus on supporting immigrant engineers. He serves as Vice Chair of SIGIE, contributing tirelessly to mentorship, representation, and professional growth.

Razel is a chartered professional engineer, project manager, and team leader at Tonkin & Taylor Limited with 20 years of experience in geotechnical and civil engineering. Hailing from the Philippines, Razel spent her formative years there before kickstarting her career in Singapore in 2004, and immigrated to New Zealand in 2012. Razel has wide experience in major projects and has been involved in major roads and highways, and land development projects in Singapore, Vietnam, New Zealand, and Australia. She is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in engineering and continuously works towards creating more opportunities for women and underrepresented minorities in these fields.

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Priyanka is a dedicated professional with a background in Chemical Technology and Project Management, successfully transitioning into the residential construction sector in New Zealand. Since moving to New Zealand in 2013, she has actively pursued opportunities in engineering and construction, eventually founding her own company, which has been operating in the residential sector for the past three years.

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As the Webinar Coordinator for the Special Interest Group for Immigrant Engineers (SIGIE), Priyanka is passionate about creating platforms for immigrant engineers to connect, learn, and grow. She is committed to supporting others on their professional journeys and contributing to the success of immigrant engineers in New Zealand.

Aleksandr is a professional Property Manager and Project Manager in the commercial real estate sector, with over 15 years of experience both internationally and in New Zealand. He has successfully delivered projects for multiple logistics and industrial parks, overseeing every stage from concept development to ongoing operations. Aleksandr managed the operations of a business center that won the International Real Estate Competition Asia Pacific Property Awards 2019–2020 for Best Office Development. He also contributed to the Symbol Residence project, which earned the European Property Awards Winner title in 2020–2021. Outside of work, Aleksandr enjoys adventure tourism, diving, and yachting.

Aiman grew up in Egypt and immigrated to NZ in 2006. He has BSc in architecture Engineering (Cairo University, 1985) and an MSc in Civil Engineering (Virginia Tech, USA, 1991). Aiman worked on the contractor, client and consultant sides.  Construction management is his career and passion. He worked on a wide spectrum of construction projects, such as infrastructure (water), high-rise, industrial (cement and petrochemicals), military, hydropower, and rail.  In New Zealand, Aiman had the privileged to work in the rail industry since 2007, exposed to a range of projects and supported the success of numerous rail and metro projects such as DART, AEP, Auckland Metro, RNIP, and iREX.  Aiman has three children (not children anymore) and a lovely dog (Bella). He is also a beekeeper. He loves travelling, taking walks in nature, and bogie boarding at West Auckland beaches during the summer. 

Andrea is a professional in project management with an engineering background. She is currently working as a Commercial Manager for a large engineering consultancy company in New Zealand. Andrea has successfully delivered a few major and complex civil and transportation projects across New Zealand with her engineering background. Andrea immigrated to New Zealand in 2016 from the building sector back in China. With her experience in facing challenges and adapting to career path changes as an immigrant engineer, she is willing to support the new immigrants in finding their feet in the new environment via SIGIE.       

Cindy is a Senior Traffic Engineer currently working at Auckland Council. She brings a strong foundation in transport planning, traffic engineering, and project management, developed through solid industry experience. Cindy is passionate about creating safer, more accessible, efficient, and liveable transport networks that support the growth of Auckland City. In 2023, Cindy joined the SIGIE Committee, where she actively supports immigrant engineers by fostering opportunities for connection, learning, and professional growth. Beyond her professional pursuits, Cindy enjoys outdoor activities such as cycling and playing tennis, reflecting her active lifestyle and interest in community wellbeing.

Kaiser is a dedicated structural engineer who moved to New Zealand in 2015. Holding both a bachelor's and a master's degree earned in New Zealand, he brings three years of valuable local professional experience to his role. He is currently a team member at Kirk Roberts Consulting, contributing his expertise to impactful engineering projects. In 2024, Kaiser joined the SIGIE (Special Interest Group for Immigrant Engineers) committee as the Communications Coordinator. He is passionate about supporting immigrant engineers in their journey to successfully settle and thrive in New Zealand's engineering landscape, fostering growth, inclusivity, and professional integration.

​Maximilian is a Design Engineer at Vickers Aircraft Company with eight years of experience in mechanical engineering. Originally from Germany, he holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from TU Ilmenau. Maximilian first joined SIGIE in 2024 and became part of the committee for the 2025/26 term after relocating to New Zealand in 2025. He is passionate about supporting fellow immigrant engineers in establishing their careers and enjoys mentoring others as they adapt to the professional environment in New Zealand. Outside of engineering, Maximilian enjoys sailing and surfing along New Zealand’s coastlines.

Mohamed is a professional Electrical Engineer with over 12 years of experience across New Zealand, the UAE, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines. He first moved to New Zealand to pursue a Master’s degree in Engineering Studies at Massey University. After graduating, he joined Mech Consulting as Principal Electrical Engineer, where he applies his extensive international expertise to deliver innovative solutions. Having navigated the challenges of studying and starting a career as a new immigrant, Mohamed is passionate about mentoring and supporting others on similar journeys. In his role as SIGIE’s Communications Coordinator Assistant, he contributes to event planning, communications, and member engagement. Outside of work, Mohamed enjoys reading, swimming, and exploring New Zealand’s beautiful landscapes.

Nitin is a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) and Project Management Professional (PMP) with over 15 years of experience delivering complex transport and infrastructure projects across New Zealand. As a Senior Project Manager at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, he leads multidisciplinary teams and fosters collaborative, innovative project delivery. A long-standing SIGIE member and committee volunteer since 2020, Nitin is passionate about mentoring immigrant engineers and helping them navigate professional growth in New Zealand. He enjoys sharing insights on project management, leadership, and how technology and data can enhance the way we build and connect communities.

Ritashna is a strategic leader based in Auckland with over 20 years experience delivering major initiatives from inception to execution. She has a proven track record in guiding projects through strategy development, securing funding, establishing governance frameworks, and driving successful implementation. Ritashna is widely recognized for her ability to build high-performing teams and implement robust systems that consistently achieve results. Ritashna joined the SIGIE Committee in 2025 and she is excited to meeting and supporting fellow immigrant engineers.

Shirley is a Geotechnical Engineer, Project Manager and Team Leader at Tonkin + Taylor Ltd, based in the Wellington office. Shirley is a driven and enthusiastic individual passionate about problem-solving and fostering collaborative success. She has 15 years of experience in geotechnical consulting, construction and project management. Born and raised in China, Shirley moved to New Zealand in 2003. Her journey of settling in New Zealand, embracing a new cultural identity, and building a career has been exciting and transformative, marked by thrilling wins and valuable lessons. Along the way, Shirley has had the privilege of connecting with diverse immigrant communities and forging meaningful friendships. Shirley joined SIGIE in 2024, looking forward to supporting immigrant engineers in their professional journey and integration into the New Zealand engineering community.

Sivakumar is a Teaching Technician at the University of Auckland with over ten years of experience in engineering research, prototyping and technical training. Originally from India, he has held research roles in France and Singapore before moving to New Zealand, where he completed a Ph.D. in Mechatronics Engineering and a Master of Engineering Management. He currently oversees the Design and Build Workshop, guiding students and researchers through the full prototyping process using a wide range of manufacturing technologies. As SIGIE’s Webinar Coordinator, Sivakumar is dedicated to delivering monthly webinars that showcase diverse engineering disciplines and practical insights, fostering a strong platform for immigrant engineers to connect, learn and thrive in Aotearoa.

Yana is a qualified mechanical and civil engineer. Yana immigrated to New Zealand in 2010 and has been with SIGIE since 2017. She is very passionate about helping others to settle in NZ via sharing her experience and local knowledge.

Zaid is a proven leader in capital and major infrastructure projects delivery and people management. With over 27 years of experience in New Zealand and internationally, he specialises in the full project lifecycle, including investigation, design, consenting, land acquisition, and construction. He currently serves as Associate Director -Transport in the Civil and Infrastructure Team at AECOM NZ Ltd. Zaid is a Fellow of Engineering New Zealand and hold Chartered and International Professional Engineer status, complemented by qualifications in Project Management and NZ Procurement Procedures. Originally from Baghdad, Iraq, he moved to New Zealand in 2008. Since 2009, he has been a passionate advocate for international engineers, volunteering with the Special Interest Group for International Engineers (SIGIE). His dedication earned him recognition as one of the first two Lifetime Members of the group. During his service, he has held various key leadership roles, including Chair (3.5 Terms), Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer, consistently enjoying the opportunity to meet fellow migrant engineers and support their integration and growth within the New Zealand engineering industry.