Bobby Hao

From a young age, Bobby Hao has loved machines and figuring out how things work, so it’s no surprise he has not one but two engineering degrees from the University of Waikato.

Growing up in China, Bobby gained early insight into the world of engineering with a civil engineer for a father. A generation on and Bobby has followed a similar career pathway but using a road less travelled. He came to New Zealand in 2009 and has since completed two engineering degrees at the University of Waikato, qualifications he has put to good use in his role as Mechanical Engineer Team Lead at Kiwi owned-and-operated company, BrickHouse Technologies, based in Hamilton.

Choosing Hamilton

When Bobby decided to come to New Zealand from Shijiazhang in China he didn’t hesitate to choose Hamilton. He weighed up all the options of attending a university in New Zealand, with some being more affordable than others.

“With so many green spaces, vibrant colours and trees in Hamilton and on campus, I just knew I would love the environment here,” he said.

“Living in Hamilton means everywhere I need to be is within 15 minutes’ drive, so it’s easy, plus I can ride my bike, which I love.”

It certainly has measured up to expectations and Bobby has enjoyed exploring the city by bike over the many years he’s lived in Kirikiriroa. An activity he now does with his family in tow.

Inspired by family

Engineering his journey across two degrees has seen Bobby graduate with a mechanical engineering degree and a civil engineering degree – both from the University of Waikato.

“My father and my brother each have a civil engineering degree, so perhaps It was only natural that I went down the same pathway,” he laughs.

University of Waikato pathway

Bobby commenced study in 2009, firstly completing a one-year bridging foundation course and then a four-year degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Following an internship with PDV Consultants, Bobby worked for the consultancy for six years from 2014 – 2020 as a Mechanical Design Engineer. He moved to water and wastewater treatment specialists, BrickHouse Technologies in 2021 and at the same time, started a second Bachelor’s degree, this time in Civil Engineering.

“As an international student, the University has been very supportive of me throughout my studies,” he says.

Flexible working life

Initially, Bobby pursued his degree full-time while working part-time, 20 hours per week, at BrickHouse Technologies and was offered a role as Project Engineer in 2022.

With invaluable support from BrickHouse, Bobby was able to pursue full-time work with the company, while undertaking his degree part-time. He completed his University capstone project in his final year while simultaneously working for BrickHouse, as he used the project opportunity to build a grit chamber for a customer.

“Learning the theory at University is one thing, but applying this knowledge to real life situations was really only possible through on-the-job experience and help from senior colleagues,” he says.

Building the grit chamber gave Bobby an opportunity to work in a self-directed context, applying theory to a practical project with a commercial outcome.

Throughout his academic achievements and career progression, Bobby has remained steadfast in his priority of family. He is married to Felicity, and they have two boys, who are now two and six years old.

“Family life is the most important thing to me, and the flexibility offered by BrickHouse has been fantastic. Through the support I’ve received, I have been able to advance my academic studies, develop my career and spend time with my family,” he says.

Looking back to look forward

Looking back on his journey since coming to New Zealand and attending the University of Waikato, Bobby has a few thoughts of reflection.

“Being away from family when you’re a student is tough – don’t push yourself too hard in the early years and make sure to take some time to enjoy yourself too.”

He says the challenges that came up in the early years as a student, with English as a second language, meant the support from the Chinese community at University was of tremendous value.

Additionally, Bobby completed tertiary study in both the pre-pandemic and post-pandemic environments, which means he experienced study in a variety of ways. He notes the advantage of the post-pandemic academic world means lectures and tutorials are recorded and available 24/7.

“Academic study is now more accessible than ever. You can access lectures and notes anytime and anywhere, which gives students more scope to study at a pace that suits their own circumstances. This certainly worked for me and hopefully it will be of value for more students in years to come,” he says.