Learning Through Collaboration: Isaac's Story

Isaac's Work Exchange with GSTEC

When mechanical engineering consultant, Isaac Seeto, first joined Compass-Intelle Engineering Group as a graduate engineer, he quickly developed an interest in Building Management Systems (BMS) and Building Automation solutions for clients. With a background in mechatronics and encouragement from within Compass-Intelle, Isaac sought to venture beyond design documentation and experience firsthand how automated control systems come to life in the built environment.

Compass-Intelle Director, Mark Agius, had no hesitation in supporting a collaborative learning opportunity, stating –‍

"We have always valued the perspective and experience of specialist contractors in the building services arena. A good designer takes into consideration not just the project brief and client requirements, but also takes into account practical solutions, ease of maintenance and site experience.  It's important for our engineers to have an appreciation for the real-life experience of our trade partners."

With Mark’s support, Isaac’s curiosity led to a valuable opportunity: a two-week work exchange with industry partner GSTEC, a Sydney-based specialist in building automation, energy management, Integrated systems, as well as electrical installation and switchboard manufacturer.

Stepping Into a Different World

On the morning Isaac’s work exchange began, rather than taking a bus into the Sydney CBD, he travelled to the end of the metro line into Marrickville. As he walked to GSTEC’s office, the sights and sounds were noticeably different: from the art of “local artists” tagged on the buildings to planes flying overhead, Isaac was ready to embrace the new rhythm this adventure would offer.

The GSTEC team welcomed Isaac with open arms, showing him how hardware is selected, control logic is programmed, and automated systems are installed in real-world conditions. Suddenly, the designs he’d crafted back in the office were more than functional descriptions and specifications on a screen - they were living systems driven by real-world constraints and on-the-ground decisions.

Lessons in Collaboration

Over the next two weeks, Isaac experienced how Compass-Intelle’s engineered solutions intersect with GSTEC’s installation and programming expertise. He observed how GSTEC turn automation designs into functional control strategies, discussed the nuances of hardware selection to identify the best client solution options, and experienced hands-on logic programming.

For Isaac, the experience was more than technical learning. It was a chance to step into someone else’s shoes, to better appreciate the perspectives and pressures of contractors, and to understand how his design choices impact those further down the construction project lifecycle.

Looking Back - and Ahead

At the conclusion of the two weeks, Isaac was reflective and grateful. He appreciated the opportunity to grow technically, to expand his understanding of building automation and control system delivery, and to build real connections with the GSTEC team. He also confessed a small regret: he didn’t take any photos to document the experience (a regret shared by our marketing team!).

Still, the value of the experience transcends snapshots. The exchange was a success, both for Isaac’s professional development and for the partnership between our two companies. But don’t just take our word for it. We had a chance to catch up with Timothy Gale-Re, Projects Engineering Lead at GSTEC, who shared the following sentiment –‍

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“It was a pleasure working with Isaac from Compass-Intelle over this period. GSTEC gained valuable insights into key BMS consulting principles all the while providing Isaac a look into the complex inner workings that make up the end product. This collaboration will go a long way in building an understanding of each other’s company values, while also strengthening our professional working relationship.”

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Isaac’s journey exemplifies Compass-Intelle’s investment in long-term professional growth and demonstrates what can happen when we invest in collaboration, not just in projects but in people. Through meaningful collaboration with trusted partners like GSTEC, we are working to bring industry practices closer together.

Investing in Growth

At Compass-Intelle, we believe professional development goes beyond traditional training. We aim to create hands-on experiences to drive a deeper understanding of how systems are built and operated. It’s about stepping into each other’s worlds to deliver better systems, smarter solutions, and a more collaborative industry. Isaac’s exchange with GSTEC is a reminder that growth often happens outside of our comfort zones, and that collaboration is one of the most powerful tools we have to drive success.

We commend Isaac for embracing the opportunity and extend our heartfelt thanks to GSTEC for opening their doors and sharing their expertise. When consultants and contractors collaborate closely, the whole built environment ecosystem benefits.

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