2024 Winner: First Peoples Alumnus Award (Griffith Sciences)
Bachelor of Engineering, Class of 2018
Caleb Adams, a proud Wulli Wulli man, is passionate about the intersection of sustainability and finance for a lasting impact. He is dedicated to channelling capital towards impactful opportunities for Indigenous communities, particularly concerning sustainable development and climate change.
What inspired you to pursue your current career path?
I was drawn to sustainability due to my passion for environmental and social outcomes and my belief that we can do things better. While engineers innovate and build solutions, I found finance to be a vehicle for broader system-wide engagement. It’s exciting to see the scope for climate mitigation and First Nations outcomes through the intentional use of capital and fit-for-purpose systems that align investments with societal risks.
What role has mentorship played in your professional development?
I was very lucky to have several mentors at Griffith; including older peers, industry professionals and some great teachers. This not only aided academic learning and engagement but also the development of critical thinking and curiosity around professional paths that may not otherwise be considered. The community and support fostered through the GUMURRII Student Success Unit was particularly important in supporting mentorship.
How do you spend your downtime?
I spend my downtime focusing on balance and well-being. This often includes cooking, cycling, volleyball and spending time with family.
What role has networking played in your professional journey?
Engineers are not known for their small talk - perhaps this is why I have enjoyed networking through doing and collaboration. Values-oriented networks and relationships have been critical in my multi-disciplinary journey.
I am actively involved in not-for-profit boards, United Nations Forum and industry advocacy through peak bodies. This has played a critical role in my ability to engage with complex challenges and connect people for exciting collaborative opportunities.
How did your time at Griffith help shape your career?
Much of my career progression and achievements to date have snowballed from opportunities to step out of my comfort zone and to explore new intersections.
The integrated learning platform within my engineering degree meant I was able to spend a full year working full-time at Lendlease, gaining practical learning and exploring my professional interests. Through Griffith’s partnership with Global Voices, I was also able to attend the United Nations Habitat III conference in Ecuador as a Youth Delegate. This opened my eyes to the critical intersections between sustainable engineering practice, finance and policy. Similarly, international study, including exchange in Sweden and a study tour in Japan, allowed for cross-cultural learning and a global perspective.
Many of these auxiliary experiences have shaped my focus on how finance and capital can be applied to catalyse sustainable development and address global challenges.
Favourite inspirational quote?
“A good engineer knows nothing about anything, but something about everything” - Griffith Bachelor of Engineering Lecturer, O-Week 2014.
This has stuck with me as a reminder of the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and breadth of subject matter expertise. This is not only critical in solving complex problems but also leads to unique skills and an adaptable career trajectory.
Want more?
Meet the rest of our 2024 winners and discover how they are making it matter.