Building Performance is a key driver of a wide range of building services disciplines and, as such, is the theme of the 2025 CIBSE ANZ Young Engineers Awards.
With the launch date fast approaching, it's time to spotlight the 2024 winners who are shaping the future of the building services industry.
This prestigious event is a golden opportunity for budding engineers to showcase their innovative ideas and be recognised for their contributions to the field.
Let's take a moment to hear from Mario Wellalage, the 2024 Mark Griffin Award winner and Student of the Year, whose journey is an inspiration to all aspiring engineers.
Insights from Mario Wellalage, 2024 Student of Year
"Personally, [from the awards process] I learnt to trust my instincts more and found a skill in video creation. Professionally, it helped me learn a lot about aspects of building services and how it can improve with AI."
"Being a finalist helped me get a foot into the industry as it gave me a good knowledge of the aspects of building services. It also gave me a good standing with my current organisation as it paved the way for my internship."
In light of the 2025 Awards theme, we asked Mario where the industry can make the greatest impact on building performance.
“I think we should look into the materials and building fabric used in building design. It impacts the performance of the units that are installed long-term. If the appropriate material or sealing isn't used, it can lead to equipment malfunction or increased heat gain.”
A Glimpse into Mario's Journey
Mario is completing a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and found his way to building services through the units at university, in particular, the thermodynamic subjects with a focus on heating and cooling applications. Mario will graduate in June of 2025.
Since securing the accolade of 2024 CIBSE ANZ Mark Griffin Award, Mario has joined Erbas as a mechanical engineering intern and has been working in that role for the past 3 months.
“The diverse applications of HVAC systems always keep the job interesting and that's what I love about it.”
Inspiration for Future Candidates
Mario's experience with the CIBSE ANZ Young Engineers Awards serves as a testament to the value, and impact of participating in such competitions. The recognition received from industry accolades can help you take your next career steps. If you're interested in building services, consider giving these awards a shot. It may sound challenging at first, but give it your best, and you may be rewarded.
The 2025 CIBSE ANZ Young Engineers Awards promises to be an exciting event celebrating the next generation of engineers. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this incredible journey.
Register your interest in entering and make your mark on the future of building services.
CIBSE will provide extra support, resources, and reminders throughout the process. We will also provide a free ticket to the 2025 CIBSE ANZ Building Performance Seminar Series planned for July / August 2025 for expressions of interest from those eligible to enter the Awards. Tickets are valued at over $150.
Not without industry support
They say “It takes a village..” and this is true of Industry Awards. CIBSE is so grateful to have year on year growing support of so many industry stakeholders for the 2025 Awards programme.
We thank our sponsors and partners for their financial support, as well as their continued advocacy, of the Awards programme across the building services profession.