The new faces of IT: Maddy’s path to a sustainable future

For Madeleine (Maddy) Neaves, a Monash University student studying Software Engineering and Science, making an impact is more than a goal – it’s her North Star. This guiding principle shapes her studies and drives her ambition to bring meaningful change to real-world issues, particularly in sustainability.

Her dedication quickly caught the attention of her supervisor, Associate Professor Markus Wagner from the Faculty of Information Technology, who is also the Associate Director for Smart Energy Systems at the Monash Energy Institute.?

Recognising her enthusiasm, he nominated Maddy for a two-week Advanced Computer Science program at Peking University in China, where she joined a global cohort to explore cutting-edge technology and bring back insights to enhance her work in sustainability.

An immersive learning experience in Beijing

During her time in Peking University, Maddy attended lectures by researchers and PhD students on advanced AI, energy, machine learning, computer vision and robotics projects.

Her journey included visits to industry giants like Microsoft and Tencent, gaining a unique perspective on the applications of IT worldwide.

Maddy thrived in this dynamic environment, where Peking University researchers were not only eager to collaborate but also excited to share ideas. She enjoyed connecting with peers from Peking and IT students from around the world, gaining first-hand insight into how different countries leverage technology for their respective national needs.

‘Cross-pollinating ideas with students from diverse backgrounds really enriched my perspective on IT and its role in building a sustainable future,’ Maddy reflects.?

Bringing global experience back home

Back in Australia, Maddy channels her Beijing experience into her final-year project: a front-end framework for visualising data in energy grid expansion.?

Her work enables planners to interpret key information more easily, helping identify optimal strategies for sustainable grid development, minimising environmental impact and supporting renewable energy transitions.

Beyond her studies, Maddy volunteers as the President of the Monash Energy Club, collaborating with industry professionals to foster student engagement in energy innovation.?

She also interns at Proa where she develops solar microgrid modelling and optimisation tools, showcasing the versatile skill set Monash students bring to the table.

The growing role of IT in sustainability

Maddy sees the energy industry as an exciting landscape for IT professionals, especially in advancing renewable energy integration. ‘This is an incredible time for data scientists and IT experts to join the energy sector,’ she notes.

‘Integrating renewable resources into traditional energy grids requires innovative solutions, and IT plays a crucial role in modelling, analysis and optimisation.’

Recognising this potential, the Faculty of IT has made ‘IT for Sustainability’ one of its key research themes, aiming to address the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals through interdisciplinary research.

Faculty members, like Associate Professor Wagner, are leaders in their respective research areas. By leveraging their industry connections and guidance, students such as Maddy gain practical experience to address real-world challenges and make an impact after graduation.

Challenging stereotypes in IT

Growing up in Geelong, Maddy struggled to identify with the ‘nerdy’ stereotype associated with computers and coding. But her university journey revealed that IT encompasses much more than coding – it’s about problem-solving across all fields.?

‘IT isn’t just about coding in a dark room,’ she laughs. ‘It’s about solving real-world challenges, and that can be applied to any area. While I enjoy coding, I thrive on achieving tangible outcomes and collaborating with others to find solutions.’

For Maddy, IT is an avenue for hands-on problem-solving, bringing people together to make impactful changes.

‘People sometimes avoid identifying as IT professionals because they fear it limits them. But embracing this identity is key to breaking stereotypes and making a difference.’

Maddy continues to broaden her understanding of global IT challenges and opportunities. Last week she was invited to speak at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (CO29) in Azerbaijan on LinkedIn’s panel about green skills in the workforce.

Later this month, she will attend the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Young Leaders Forum in Vietnam, where she’ll deepen her knowledge of the cultures and challenges in the ASEAN region.