Master of Science in Circular Economy Leadership for the Built Environment

Student Testiomonial, David Whelan, Graduate

1. Can you tell us your name, job title and the course you studied at ATU? 

David Whelan, Sustainability Consultant, Post-graduate Diploma in Circular Economy Leadership for the Built Environment.

1. Can you share your career path to date?

Self-employed consultant, delivering sustainability and green public procurement training to business and the public sector. Previously Health & Wellness Coach and small business owner. Have also worked as an engineer and project manager in the corporate world for multinational companies, mostly in the semiconductor and electronics sectors.

1. What does your current role involve?

Delivering systems thinking and sustainability workshops to business and community organisations. Developing sustainability policies for small to medium sized enterprises. Researching and writing position papers for business and charity sector.

1. What motivated you to start studying? 

Upskilling to meet the demands of industry and intended career pivot. Opportunity to network and meet other people working the industry.

1. Why did you choose this course from ATU?

Great course offering on Circular Economy and subsidised learning opportunity. The Circular Economy is topical, relevant, and an interesting subject matter.

1. How did you find the process of studying online? What elements did you find helpful? Were there elements you found challenging? 

Adapted quickly to online learning, although I had taken a post graduate certificate course at a different university the previous year, so I had an opportunity to orientate to online learning during that period.

1. How did you balance work and study?

I’m self-employed so I can be flexible in terms of my working day.

1. In terms of your employer, were they supportive of your decision to study? Were there elements of the course that were particularly relevant to your current employer? 

N/A

1. What advice would you have for anyone considering studying?

Take short courses if returning to learning after an extended gap to allow time to become acquainted with the demands of online and flexible learning environments.

1. In what way has studying online with ATU benefitted your career?

It opened a new industry network, developed my systems thinking and research skills, and has given me more confidence.

1. Did this course provide any unexpected benefits to your career?

Made others aware of a skillset which I hope to commercialise.

1. Did you find that the elements you were studying had practical relevance in your day-to-day role? 

Current research in subject matter area and developments happening in the sector.

1. What were the key skills you took away from your time studying at ATU?

Research and material presentation. Additional time management skills. Current industry knowledge.