26 October 2005
Monash University-trained engineers exceed the national average in securing employment in their chosen field, a survey has revealed.
Just over 87 per cent of Monash engineering students who graduated in 2003 and 2004 found suitable employment -- well above the national average of 82 per cent, according to the Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers Australia.
Association Chief Executive Officer, Mr John Vines, said Monash's reputation helped graduates get jobs. "The Monash engineering degree is recognised as a good, practical degree. The high employability of Monash-trained engineers reflects the fact that the university's graduates are job-ready," he said.
Industry demand for women engineers is growing, Mr Vines said, with f emale graduates being generally better paid than their male counterparts.
The survey found annual starting salaries for women engineers ranged from $38,000 to $56,000 compared with $36,697 to $53,000 for men.
"There is a strong level of demand for women engineers in numerous sectors including environmental, chemical and civil engineering," he said.
"It is a very positive sign that should encourage more women to consider engineering as a career choice," Mr Vines said.
Environmental engineers had the highest employment rate -- just under 96 per cent -- of all other engineering disciplines including civil/structural and electrical engineering.
"With the demand for engineers of all disciplines on the rise, graduates can be more assured than in previous years of securing employment," Mr Vines said.
For more information contact Ms Robyn Anns, Media Communications, on +613 9905 9317 or 0417 568 781; or Mr John Vines on 0413 746 421.
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