Engineering with Purpose: A Journey Through Safety and Standards

Among the many inspiring professionals across our committees, in this International Women in Engineering Day (June 23), we’re proud to spotlight Anthea Hammon, Chair of the ME-051 Amusement Rides and Devices Committee and Managing Director of Scenic World in the Blue Mountains. Anthea also serves as Chair of the Western Sydney Airport Development Committee.

A passionate advocate for safety and a role model for emerging engineers, she reflects on her involvement in standards development and the values that continue to shape her work:

You’re the Chair of ME-051 and have been involved in standards since you were 23. What inspired you to get involved so early, and what keeps you passionate about it today?

I was really fortunate to have an engineer that I knew through my family business, Scenic World, who was a mentor to me when I was a teenager. I feel like I always wanted to be an engineer, so he took me under his wing, and once I finished my degree, he suggested I join the committee (he was the Chair) as a way to gain experience and broaden my network.

I was back working in the family business as a project engineer, where both my father and grandfather always took time to give back to our industry, so I was given the time and support to join the committee as my contribution to industry. When the Chair retired, he asked me to take over, which I agreed to as a new challenge for me personally.  

I’m still passionate all these years later for a few reasons: I’m a strong advocate for safety – both in my business and more broadly for the industry – and standards are a great way to help the industry be safer. I’m always learning, and a side benefit is that I really enjoy spending time with people on the committee, some of whom I’ve now known for 20 years.  

Looking back on your work in standards development, what are some achievements or contributions you’re most proud of, and why do they stand out to you?

I think every finished standard is something I’m proud of. It takes thoughtful coordination to bring together a group of volunteers, in person or over Zoom, and guide them toward consensus on hundreds of clauses. It’s rewarding when that collaboration results in a standard that’s embraced by industry, manufacturers, and regulators.

You’ve led major projects like Western Sydney Airport and run iconic destinations like Scenic World and BridgeClimb. How has your engineering mindset influenced your leadership in these diverse roles?

I think first and foremost, engineering gives you a respect for safety and how critical that is in the entire lifecycle of any product –whether it’s putting people up on an iconic structure like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, hanging 85 individuals at a time in the Jamison Valley, or building an airport that needs to take off and land planes. Safety is at the core of those operations. This respect plays out in my leadership through living, promoting, and being committed to a safety culture. I have a saying at Scenic World, “We can’t give a great customer experience unless we are safe first” – simple but so important.

You’ve been described as a role model and are highly respected by your peers. What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in engineering or thinking about getting involved in standards development?  

Engineering is a great jumping point to a whole range of careers. If you have any inclination towards sciences or maths, engineering isa great option.

More broadly, say yes to opportunities when they come along. Volunteer roles like standards require your time and effort, but in return, you get to spend time with experts, learn deeply about the industry you specialise in, and expand your network with others that are also willing to give their time.

🤝 Join the movement: Learn how to get involved in standards development