Ben joined Hume Anglican Grammar in 2012 as a Year 5 student and graduated from Hume as Vice-Captain with an ATAR of 98.20. He entered The University of Melbourne with a Principal’s Scholarship and a Graduate Degree Package, eager to explore his chosen field of mechatronics engineering.

Ben’s bachelor’s and master’s degrees built his proficiency with control systems, machine learning, and robotics, while leadership roles and hands-on work built his adaptability. This culminating in his capstone project: automated drone swarms for detecting sharks and rip currents on Australian beaches.

Throughout those five years of study, Ben had to balance academia with real-world experience by managing the pie boys at the MCG, tutoring students, and running his own groundskeeping business, developing leadership, problem-solving, and financial management skills. As Treasurer and Trips Coordinator for the Melbourne University Ski Club, Ben oversaw finances and logistics, leading large-scale trips and training future leaders, while 'shredding' at Mt Hotham.

Ben’s internship at Boeing Aerostructures Australia (BAA) further bridged theory and practice, where he designed and integrated machine learning / computer vision solutions and presented to colleagues in AI applications. After completing his studies, Ben commenced the graduate program at BAA, where he will be exploring different roles through 6-month rotations, starting with automation engineering, which involves dynamic communication and industrial robotics.

Ben says 'from selling pies to building robots, my journey has been one of constant learning, leadership, and innovation. As I step forward, I’m ready to tackle the next challenge with the same drive and curiosity that I found at Hume.' 

Tell us about an interesting project that you are currently working on?
That’s classified.

I wake up before 6am and cycle to Fisherman’s Bend for a 7am start. After checking emails and making a coffee, I dive into the day. As an engineering graduate at an international aerospace company, I’m balancing learning the ropes of my role with gaining a broader understanding of the industry. My mornings might involve inspecting carbon fibre aerostructures, attending a robotics site tour, or learning about the over 100-year history of Boeing aviation. At lunch, I unwind with a game of table tennis before wrapping up around 3pm and leaving time for hobbies in the evening.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Hume Anglican Grammar?
Practicing piano at recess and lunch times – especially on Mondays with the band.

How has your time at Hume Anglican Grammar influenced your likes and pathways after school?
The STEM electives, along with VCE Physics, Methods, and Specialist Maths, made engineering the clear choice for me. But beyond academics, Hume Anglican Grammar showed me how much I enjoy working with, and mentoring, others to solve problems—something that is necessary for innovative engineering in the 21^st century.

Fast Four:

If your friends could describe you in one word, what would it be?
Gruntled.

Where is your favourite travel spot?
Anywhere with deep soft snow.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I’ve kept a plant alive for almost a year!

What's your favourite hobby or activity to do during your free time?
Still piano.