Phyliss Lan | John W Turnbull Estate Engineering

Bachelors of Engineering (Honours) Mechatronics

Mechatronic devices are everywhere, yet their life after obsolescence is often overlooked. In Aotearoa, we welcome many startups with smart innovations, but as technology continues to rapidly evolve, outdated devices increasingly contribute to growing e-waste challenges. The importance of circular economy design of mechatronic devices is paramount, yet remains underrepresented. Circular economy design is just one of many areas within sustainable engineering that are often overlooked.

As a mechatronics student, I recognise that sustainable design is difficult to achieve in commercial engineering environments driven by customer needs and rapid innovation. I believe that we must challenge the status quo with a paradigm shift and leadership towards responsible engineering design. From a grassroots level, I believe in educating students, like myself, of how sustainability is tied with our engineering degree. There are many sustainable design opportunities, which I hope to help drive in the rapidly growing technological landscape of Aotearoa.

Sponsor: John W Turnbull Estate Engineering

Mentors: Ziena Jalil and Cather Simpson

Ziena is a governance and policy professional with experience across public, private, and not‑for‑profit organisations. Ziena brings a strong interest in systems change, strategic leadership, and inclusive decision‑making. She mentors Kupe Scholars through thoughtful guidance and practical leadership insight.

Cather is an entrepreneurial academic. A physics and chemistry professor at the University of Auckland and founder and director of the Photon Lab. Cather is passionate about innovation and investing in youth development.