
Sustainable Tunnelling in Australia: A DEI Perspective
February 26 @ 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm AEDT
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Overview
Join us for an engaging online panel discussion at the ATS Mentor Alliance Learning & Development Forum hosted by Patricia Kaziro, Director of Impact Business School.
Our panellists will share first-hand experiences from the tunnelling industry, offering valuable insights through a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion perspective.
Drawing on their experiences as mentors and mentees in the ATS Mentor Alliance over the past few years, the discussion will provide practical guidance and reflections to inform and inspire participants ahead of the 2026 program.
Join the conversation, hear diverse perspectives, and be part of shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future for the industry.
Panellists
Adrian Smith
Brisbane Manager – Principal Geotechnical Engineer – PSM
Adrian Smith is a Principal Geotechnical Engineer at PSM with 23 years experience in a variety of geotechnical practice areas, including design of rail, road, hydro and utility tunnels, civil works, underground and open cut mining. Adrian leads PSM’s Brisbane office and is a PSM director. His recent project roles have included:
– PSM Engineering Lead for Underground mining projects in New Zealand, The Philippines, Sweden, Northern Territory, Queensland and New South Wales
– Underground and Geotechnical Works Lead for the Tarraleah Hydro project in Tasmania
– Underground works, owner’s engineer for Kidston Pumped Hydro
– PSM’s Design Director for the Cross River Rail project
Dante Tsang
Technical Principal- Tunnels – SMEC
Dante Tsang is a Chartered Engineer with over 23 years of experience in geotechnical and tunnelling engineering across major infrastructure projects globally, including rail, road, utilities, and renewable energy. His exposure covered both technical and leadership roles, with extensive experience in the design and delivery of complex tunnelling works like Snowy 2.0, Sydney Metro West, Western Harbour Tunnel, WestConnex and NorthConnex.
Beyond technical delivery, Dante is passionate about building sustainable, high-performing teams. He is a strong advocate for clear communication, mentoring, and inclusive leadership, and firmly believes that sustainable teams are built through trust, respect, and collaboration.
Dante is currently a Technical Principal at SMEC, overseeing the technical aspects of the tunnel team in Sydney office.
Katerina Monemvasioti Kappos
Associate Tunnel Engineer – Jacobs
Katerina Monemvasioti Kappos is a Chartered Civil Engineer and Associate Tunnelling Engineer at Jacobs with postgraduate specialisation in tunnelling. She has experience spanning major tunnel projects in Australia and the UK, including the River Torrens to Darlington Project, Sydney Metro West – Central Tunnelling Package, WestConnex 3A and the nuclear plant Hinkley Point C. She is an active contributor to industry bodies, having previously served on committees for the Diversity in Tunnelling ATS Subgroup, the Australian Tunnelling Society, and the Institution of Civil Engineers NSW chapter.


