DTP Staff Reflections on CPEE Unit 600

As part of a targeted initiative to enhance technical capability across Victoria’s transport sector, four engineers from the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) recently completed Unit 600: Fundamentals of Roads and Pavements through the Centre for Pavement Engineering Education (CPEE). Their reflections on the experience paint a powerful picture of the value of flexible, industry-relevant learning in shaping confident, capable professionals.

Building on Experience, Bridging the Gaps
For Sachintha Kodituwakku, the decision to enrol came from a desire to “go deeper into the theory” behind his day-to-day pavement engineering work. “It was a good way to fill any gaps,” he said. Kevin Choi agreed, explaining that the course offered an “external perspective” on the field, helping to reinforce and expand his existing knowledge.

Flexible Learning, Real-World Relevance
Balancing study with full-time work is no easy feat, but the unit’s self-paced online delivery was a key enabler for all four participants. Shirangi Jayawardena said the flexible format “allowed me to structure my learning around work commitments and project deadlines,” while Kevin appreciated being able to continue learning even while on his honeymoon — “self-pacing was a lifesaver.”

One of the students said the ability to tailor study around personal commitments made the course manageable, and he noted that the structure “allowed me to work around some personal leave I had booked prior to enrolment.”

Direct Application to DTP Work
The content covered in Unit 600 aligned closely with participants’ roles at DTP. Whether it was working with Austroads guidelines, modelling pavement behaviour, or applying design principles in practice, the connection between course materials and real-world challenges was clear.

“The first assignment – exploring methods to assess subgrade test results and determine design CBR values – represents a key step in the pavement design process,” a student said.

Shirangi noted the benefit of learning through practical examples, including “fit-for-purpose design” and lifecycle performance thinking – both central to asset management within DTP.

Learning from Experts, Learning from Each Other
Participants praised the quality of instruction and materials. “David Hazell was exceptional,”  “He reviewed all assignments thoroughly, identified even minor errors, and provided great feedback.” Shirangi appreciated that “the unit was clearly developed by experts with direct industry experience.”

Kevin highlighted the value of peer discussion and online forums in helping him deepen his understanding of complex topics, noting the course’s “first principles approach” helped him adapt theory into design thinking.

Looking Ahead: Confidence, Capability and Growth
Each participant expressed interest in continuing their studies through the Graduate Certificate in Pavement Technology, particularly in areas like pavement rehabilitation, surfacings, or performance-based design.

While some see further study as key to career advancement, others view it as a confidence-building exercise. “It may not change my role directly but it reinforces my technical ability.” Shirangi added that “ongoing learning allows me to contribute at a more strategic level, not just in execution.”

A Valuable Pathway for Engineers at All Stages
When asked if they’d recommend the CPEE pathway, the answer was a resounding yes. “If you’re a self-starter, you’ll get a lot out of it,” said Sachintha. Another student said “For younger engineers, it can fast-track development”.

Their experiences collectively highlight how flexible, targeted professional education – developed with and for industry – can powerfully complement practical work, enabling engineers to stay sharp, current and future-ready.