With a background in pharmacy, engineering and Information Technology (IT), Electrical Engineering Student at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Mark Nemetallah brought a fresh perspective to the Gold Coast Secure Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit (SMHRU) project through the Learning Experience and Academic Placement (LEAP) program.
From quality checks to site monitoring, he played a key role in keeping things on track. But for Mark, the real reward was knowing his work would make a difference in mental health recovery.
To kick things off, tell us about your career and study journey…
My career has been a mix of health care and engineering, driven by a love for problem-solving.
I started as a Locum Pharmacist, travelling across states and seeing firsthand the differences in patient care. Later, I stepped into an Information Technology (IT) Manager role at my family’s medical centre, upgrading digital health systems and data security.
That experience sparked my interest in electronics and led me to study Electrical Engineering at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). The 星空体育 LEAP program at SMHRU felt like the perfect fit, combining my technical skills with my passion for improving health care systems.
Having worked as a pharmacist and seen the impact of mental health challenges firsthand, being part of this critical infrastructure project felt especially meaningful to me.
What did your role entail and how did you contribute to the Secure Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit (SMHRU) project?
In the first half of my internship, I focused on reviewing specs and engineering drawings to develop a solid Quality Assurance checklist for site visits. Shadowing the SMHRU Project Manager Brad Azzopardi gave me a hands-on look at the project's scope and daily operations.
As I gained confidence, I took on weekly site visits, monitoring progress, flagging discrepancies and keeping the project aligned with specifications. It was rewarding to see how my contributions helped keep things on track.
What’s been the most rewarding part of working on the SMHRU?
The most rewarding part of working on the SMHRU was understanding the ‘why’ behind design decisions and seeing my input make a real impact. It was fulfilling to spot areas for improvement, share insights with the team and watch those changes come to life.
Even as an intern, I felt my contributions mattered. This experience has also given me a fresh perspective on my studies. Seeing how theory applies in the real world made learning more meaningful and motivating.
How has working on the SMHRU shaped your perspective on the role of health infrastructure?
My time at the SMHRU showed me how design choices in health care infrastructure directly impact both consumers and staff. I learned the balance between technical specs and real-world needs, as well as the power of collaboration. Architects, engineers and health care leaders all play a role in creating a functional, consumer-focused facility. This experience reinforced how teamwork and diverse expertise lead to better outcomes.
When it’s complete, what will the new SMHRU mean for the community?
I believe the Gold Coast SMHRU will be more than just a secure facility, it will be a supportive space that truly aids recovery. Thoughtful design elements, from colour schemes to artwork and recreation areas, will play a key role in empowering consumers on their journey to independence.
What advice would you give to other students who are interested in learning through the LEAP program?
Students interested in the LEAP program should draw from all aspects of their background, whether in health care, engineering, or another field, because every experience adds value. Learning doesn’t stop after university; it’s just the beginning. Seek out great mentors, ask plenty of questions, and take advantage of their real-world insights, the things you won’t find in a textbook.
What do you do to look after your mental health?
I find balancing work and mental health is key to staying focused and motivated. For me, this means finding purpose in every role, whether supporting the community as a pharmacist, improving systems for better patient care, or contributing to a facility that will impact recovery journeys.
To recharge, I enjoy running along the beach and, when time allows, bouldering at the local rock-climbing gym. Staying active helps keep me grounded, both physically and mentally.