Engineering a Future Fuelled by Curiosity and Imagination

When 2025 Westpac Young Technologist, Isabella Robson, talks about engineering, she lights up. To her, it’s not just about machines or equations - it’s about building a future where technology and creativity work hand-in-hand to solve real problems. 

“Engineering is about solving problems,” she says. “But it’s also about imagination, the curiosity to ask, ‘What if we could build something different?’ That’s the future I want to be part of.”

 

Now in her first year of a Bachelor of Engineering at Western Sydney University, Isabella has already set her sights on advanced manufacturing, a field she describes as “integrating automation, analytics, digitalisation and intelligence into physical operations.” In practice, that means reimagining the way we make things - more sustainably, more efficiently, and with far greater flexibility.

 

She’s particularly fascinated by 3D printing. “Additive manufacturing will enable us to build things that weren’t possible through traditional methods,” she explains, pointing to examples like 3D-printed houses, Tesla’s gigacasting, and even experiments in food production. “It complements traditional manufacturing, but also opens doors to entirely new possibilities in design and sustainability.”

 

From Student to Entrepreneur

 

Isabella’s vision for impact extends beyond the lecture hall. Together with her parents, she’s launching Mythologica, an educational resource hub inspired by her own school years.

 

“My parents played such a huge role in filling in the gaps when the classroom couldn’t meet every student’s needs,” she says. “They helped me learn in ways that worked for me - and that’s what gave me the confidence and drive I have today.”

 

Mythologica offers resources for both students and parents, breaking concepts into their simplest parts and providing flexible teaching guides that fit into busy lives. The goal, Isabella explains, is simple but powerful - to give every child the confidence to learn.

 

Finding Her Place as a Scholar

 

As a Westpac Scholar, Isabella has already had moments of doubt, the kind many share. “You walk into a room with all these brilliant people and think, ‘Do I really belong here?’” she admits. “But you grow into that space. The panel chose you for a reason, they see your potential, even before you might see it yourself.”

 

Nine months into the program, her highlight has been the Scholars Summit, particularly a panel on businesses tackling climate change and social impact. “It really resonated with me,” she reflects. “It shaped my own vision for what kind of engineer, and business leader, I want to become.”

 

Advice for Future Applicants

 

For those considering applying for the scholarship, Isabella’s advice is clear:

 Be yourself. “Authenticity shines through. Don’t try to fit a mould.”

 Prepare well. Use the interview prompts to feel confident and grounded.

 Show your passion through experience. Projects, research, even small initiatives demonstrate more than words alone.

 

And most of all? “Don’t underestimate your potential. Impact comes in many forms, and yours matters.”

 

Applications are now open for 2026 Young Technologists Scholarships, so if you’re ready to make your mark in tech, apply now