Ernest Wong is the newest member to join the Lautrec family.  He will be based in our Auckland office and will be part of the structural team.  Ernest interned at Lautrec over the summer of 2017/2018 and we are pleased to have him back as a Graduate Engineer.

What do you like doing in your spare time?

When I’m not busy, I really enjoy music, whether it is immersing myself by listening to music or playing the piano. It’s a great way to express myself and unwind after a long day. I also like to watch and play basketball to keep active.

What factors contributed to you wanting to become an engineer?

I have a natural curiosity in understanding how things work. Additionally, I have always wanted to leave a permanent mark of myself on the world. Because of this, I feel as if engineering is the perfect outlet for me as it is a career that requires innovation and can also leave a long-lasting positive impact on society.

What type of structural projects are you interested in?

Although I am interested in many types of structural projects, I am mostly interested in projects that has a blend of many different disciplines such as water and geotechnical, as the strengths of each disciplines will be showcased in the final product.

What attracted you to working with us?

As an intern, I was attracted to the welcoming and patient people that helped me along the way, as well as the warm and friendly work environment. That feeling still has not changed after coming back as a graduate engineer, which assures me that I am in good hands.

Is there a book or movie that has made an impact on your life?

The Shawshank Redemption is a classic movie that has taught me many things. The movie presents a reserved and misunderstood character who is thrust into prison for a crime he didn’t commit, and then provides a rather happy ending for him where he is free to live out the rest of his life away from the prison’s corruption. It teaches that hope is an incredibly important concept for everyone, even for those who are in miserable situations.

Who inspires you?

Martin Luther King has always been a top figure of mine whenever I think of inspiration. He has taught me that even in the face of overwhelming oppression, it is important to stand up for what you believe in. His example proved that making your stance known and not giving in is the first step to making a better change.