Growing up in the Philippines, Mark was never content just playing with his toys - he wanted to know how they worked, what parts were used, and how all the gears, motors and springs operated inside them. Now living in Aotearoa New Zealand with his family, that same curiosity has led him to studying the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (NZDE) - Mechanical at Whitireia and WelTec.
Finding the Right Fit
Mark initially had his sights set on civil engineering, but a visit to the Petone (Te Awakairangi) Campus changed everything. Being able to see that his theory-based learning would be supported by access to; lathes, milling machines, pneumatic circuits, and even thermodynamics and fluids testing labs, made him excited. Not just for what he could do with the equipment, but what he could achieve at Whitireia and WelTec.
"I was just fascinated with what the institution offers its students and knew I'd be able to put it to good use."
A key factor in Mark's decision to study with Whitireia and WelTec was the difference in the programme's approach to learning. That it focuses on producing graduates who are genuinely job-ready and are equipped with practical and technical skills to make an impact in their work.
More Than Just Formulas
Mark's engineering journey has taken him from foundational subjects such as Engineering Fundamentals, Engineering CAD, thermodynamics, and strength of materials to more advanced areas. As he approaches his final semester project, he is looking forward to applying his knowledge in a practical setting by designing and prototyping a real-world engineering solution.
The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering - Mechanical is proving to be everything Mark expected it to be but he’s specifically grateful for the guidance of his tutors, whose focus on helping students think like engineers instead of simply reciting from textbooks is something he genuinely values.
"The tutors here actually translate information; breaking it down in a way that helps you understand how things actually work, instead of just making you remember formulas."
Mark's days don't stop once class finishes, either. Despite working night shifts in the weekend, Mark believes he’s achieved the right balance between his work and his studies, keeping him on track towards graduation and his goal of becoming a Mechanical Engineer. He also credit’s his tutors, who help make this lifestyle sustainable for him, ensuring he leaves every class ready for what comes next in the programme.
Beyond the technical content, one of his biggest highlights has been learning how to bring out the best in those around him, and how to identify his own strengths and areas for growth. Whether it’s been through teamwork and collaborative problem-solving, brainstorming sessions or in-class projects. Mark has found this experience deeply rewarding, and he's excited to carry this learning into his future career as an Engineer.
Looking Ahead
Mark’s ambitions extend well beyond graduation. With a strong interest in propulsion, he has his sights set on becoming an aerospace engineer. Combining his love of problem-solving with a fascination for how things move and perform under pressure.
He also wishes to continue building his skills and knowledge long after he finishes his studies, with the hope of one day mentoring the next generation of engineers.
"I want to be someone who continuously seeks to improve his own skills and knowledge, and maybe even be able to mentor new engineers. But being able to work in aerospace engineering is the goal, although I still have a lot to learn before that."
Graduates of the NZDE - Mechanical Engineering programme often go on to work in areas like mechanical design and manufacturing, plant maintenance, building services engineering, and technical project support. Allowing graduates to have a wide range of directions to grow their careers and have multiple opportunities to continue their learning.
Thinking about study?
The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering - Mechanical is an internationally recognised, two-year qualification that blends core engineering theory with practical, hands-on training. It can also serve as a stepping stone into the three-year, Bachelor of Engineering Technology for students who want to continue their studies.
If you’re weighing up whether to take the leap into studying mechanical engineering, Mark's advice is simple.
"Do it here at Whitireia and WelTec. You won’t regret it."
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