A group of 20 aspiring student engineers and planners recently had the opportunity to visit Auckland Transport’s headquarters, gaining valuable insight into careers in transport and infrastructure.
A highlight of the visit was hearing from Auckland Transport’s newly appointed CEO, Stacey van der Putten, who shared her leadership journey — one that began in the New Zealand Air Force and developed through a range of roles across her career. She spoke candidly about stepping into leadership and encouraged students with her memorable motto: “If it’s meant to be, it’s up to me.”
Stacey emphasised that gender should never be a barrier to leadership, and that confidence often grows through experience rather than arriving beforehand. Even when people don’t feel fully prepared, she encouraged students to trust that skills can be learned and developed over time.
Students also heard from a panel of professionals who described their ‘squiggly careers’ — pathways that were anything but linear. The message was clear: there is no need to have everything figured out at this stage. Careers often unfold through exploring interests, making decisions, and adapting along the way. Many of the speakers, including Stacey, reflected that they did not begin with a fixed career plan, but rather followed opportunities as they emerged.
A major highlight of the visit was an exciting opportunity announced for Westlake Girls students: a bespoke internship programme with Auckland Transport. Students selected for the programme will be paired with an AT mentor, work in teams to solve a real-world transport challenge, and present their findings at Auckland Transport headquarters in August. Participants will also receive a certificate of completion, along with guidance on how to effectively present their internship experience in future job or university applications.
The visit provided students with both inspiration and a practical pathway into the transport and planning sector, highlighting the many directions a career can take.
