John Georgaklis (third from right) recently in attended an Alumni event at Wallumattagal Campus.

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Meet John Georgaklis, a remarkable Macquarie University alumnus who exemplifies the transformative power of the Professional and Community Engagement program (PACE).  

Armed with a double degree in Engineering and Commerce (2020), John’s journey from student to mechanical engineer at Stantec Australia is a testament to the invaluable experiences and opportunities offered by PACE. His recent achievements, along with his dedication as the Deputy Chair of the Macquarie University Young Alumni Advisory Board, underscore the spirit of Macquarie alumni. 

Mr Georgaklis’ story resonates with countless students who have benefited from Macquarie’s commitment to excellence in education. At the core of this commitment lies the renowned PACE program, which seamlessly integrates academic studies with practical work experience. By fostering hands-on learning opportunities, PACE empowers students to become future leaders in their fields.  

Pictured: John Georgaklis with colleague at Jobs Happy Hour

Mr Georgaklis’ involvement with the Macquarie community extends beyond his professional achievements. As an active member of the alumni network, he recently represented Stantec at the lively ‘Jobs Happy Hour’ event on campus, where he interacted with more than 800 talented students and showcased the exciting job opportunities available at Stantec. His passion for supporting fellow alumni is further demonstrated by his recent appointment as the Deputy Chair of the Macquarie University Young Alumni Advisory Board (YAAB). In this role, Mr Georgaklis’ collaborates with the team at Macquarie to create innovative ideas and foster opportunities for young graduates as they embark on their professional journey.  

Mr Georgaklis recently expressed his gratitude for being appointed as the Deputy Chair, stating, “I feel honoured to represent the interests of the young alumni community and help the team at Macquarie create innovative ideas for the young alumni program.” He encourages his fellow Macquarie alumni connections to get involved and participate in the exciting events organised by YAAB. 

His active involvement serves as an inspiration to current students and fellow alumni. He understands the significance of campus involvement and highlights the importance of developing essential soft skills through participation in societies such as the Macquarie University Greek Association (MUGA). By fully embracing campus life, students can enhance their communication, teamwork and leadership abilities, fostering a well-rounded skill set that translates into success in the professional realm. 

From being a PACE participant to a successful mechanical engineer, Mr Georgaklis’ journey is testament to the transformative impact of Macquarie’s educational approach. By leveraging the opportunities provided by the PACE program and actively engaging with the alumni community, he inspires and empowers future STEMM leaders to make their mark. 

To learn more about the PACE program and John’s journey with Macquarie, visit The Lighthouse.