Vinny Kavanagh No limits: Vinny Kavanagh is building a bright career in electrical engineering and kicking goals while balancing full-time work and study, with flexible work options making it all possible.
Vinny Kavanagh never lets a challenge scare him off. Whether he's climbing summits in Nepal, playing football, or balancing his electrical engineering study with his role at PBPL, he has the drive and the energy to push himself to achieve great things. He immigrated to Australia from Ireland in 2013 with an electrical trade under his belt and a thirst for adventure. Here, Vinny is building a positive future for PBPL, the Queensland economy, and himself.
A PROUD REPUTATION; A BRIGHT FUTURE
Five years ago, if you were to stand back at night and look at the Port from Wynnum or Wellington Point, you couldn't help but notice the humming glow of orange. Today, the sight seems slightly different due to a small but powerful change: the lighting at the Port is progressively being replaced with LEDs as part of our efforts to achieve our 2030 sustainability targets— our action plan to reduce our carbon footprint and improve efficiency. Vinny Kavanagh is passionate about taking these small stepping stones on a journey to a more sustainable Port.
As Acting Project Supervisor, Vinny works on a dizzying list of projects across different facets of the business. His resume includes everything from cathodic protection upgrades to structural concrete repairs, switchboard replacements, and electrical design, all while maintaining operational functions across these facilities—just to name a few.
Before being employed by the Port, Vinny worked with PBPL as a contractor for three years. That experience has offered him the ability to gain a great appreciation for the Port assets, so when a role in his field became available, he was keen on grabbing that opportunity with both hands.
"From my first day working for the Port, I knew I'd found a fantastic place to showcase my knowledge and capabilities. It's always been my intention to expand and grow in the business. Obviously, that will accelerate once I finalise my degree. I think the Port can be a playground for anyone wanting to stretch and develop their career."
Vinny loves the diversity he experiences in this role. He's learned so much about his area and the wider business—whether it's financial commitments, long-term strategic goals, or technical knowledge. He believes this approach is an asset to the operation of PBPL.
"We're passionate about improving the way we do things, especially around efficiency, sustainability, and operational assets. If you've got an idea, you can share it with your team or manager with the knowledge that they'll be receptive and supportive. Across all areas of the business, everyone is super friendly and helpful. We're a small team, but we achieve a lot. It's a testament to our people."
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
Vinny grew up in Ireland, where he completed his electrical apprenticeship and worked as a tradesman for 15 years. He was also a keen sportsman, playing Gaelic Football semi-professionally.
"When I was young, I was really committed to my sport. As a result, I never got to travel long-term, but in between my breaks, I travelled as much as I could. I took a year out of my sporting career to visit Australia, and I loved it. I always had a burning desire to get back. There's such a great quality of life here. Eventually, I made the move permanently."
Settling down in Australia, Vinny continued to work as an electrician for several years. But Vinny isn't one to sit on his laurels. In 2018, he embarked on his university journey with a Bachelor of Honours in Engineering.
"I think my trade background has been a huge benefit. I have an appreciation for what goes on in the field—the kind of stuff that university doesn't always prepare people for. Working at the Port throughout my degree has allowed me to directly apply the knowledge and theories I'm learning to real-world projects."
While combining work and study means Vinny juggles two full-time schedules, he's been afforded plenty of flexibility in his role. And he says it's worth the effort to secure a better future.
"Everyone at PBPL is extremely open and helpful. If you are offered a position here, you can cement yourself and really make a positive change. It's easy to find pride in your work here."
Are you interested in exploring the possibilities of a Port career? Find the right fit for you by visiting our careers page today.