Overview

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are actively transforming how we design, build, and manage projects across Western Australia. But as these technologies become deeply integrated into our daily workflows, what does this rapid shift actually mean for the engineering profession?

Join a panel of local experts as they break down how AI is transforming everything from project design to site operations across WA's vital engineering sectors. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an engineering student, this session will provide crucial insights into navigating the tech-driven future of your career.

Speakers

Andrew Campbell, Chair, Joint Chemical Engineering Committee (JCEC) WA

Andrew is a process engineer who has 30 years of operational experience with BHP and Rio Tinto in smelting applications. Andrew has led engineering consulting teams for Worley globally for high-end engineering analysis and digital transformation. He is currently running his own independent engineering consulting business whilst also providing business and strategy consulting to support a range of businesses. Andrew recently took on the Chair of the WA Joint Chemical Engineering Committee (JCEC) for IEAust and IChemE.

Howard Thomas, Principal Consultant, Kent PLC

Howard has advocated practical approaches to operational excellence for over 20 years. At the heart of his message is a passion for simplicity and productivity. He has a unique ability to make the complex simple for his clients and audiences. He combines an in-depth technical background with a wide-ranging business experience but is probably best known for his engaging style of presentation. He is formally technically accredited as a Chartered Professional Chemical Engineer and has worked on hydrocarbon installations all over the world, from roles as a technician to executive consultancy.

Zach Aman, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise Education) & Professor of Chemical Engineering, The University of Western Australia (UWA)

Zach serves as the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise Education) at the University of Western Australia, supporting enterprise engagement, experiential learning, career development, micro-credentials, leadership and entrepreneurship, and executive education. He is a Professor of Chemical Engineering, where his research focusses on the phase behaviour, thermophysical properties, and multiphase flow for upstream hydrocarbon systems. Zach received his PhD in Chemical Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines.

Ammar Pervez, Global Ops GenAI Lead, Alcoa

Ammar Pervez leads AI function at Alcoa, helping bridge the gap between emerging AI capabilities and real-world operational outcomes. With a background spanning engineering, analytics, consulting, and enterprise AI, he has worked across resources, oil & gas, and technology transformation programs globally. His focus is on helping organisations move beyond experimentation by embedding AI into everyday business processes through practical governance, adoption, and change management approaches that deliver measurable value.

The material presented has not been peer-reviewed. Any opinions are the presenter’s own and do not necessarily represent those of IChemE. The information is given in good faith but without any liability on the part of IChemE.

Time

18:00 - 19:00 AWST