ENGINEERING IS MORE THAN DESIGN | Samuel Youssef
A few weeks ago, we asked Samuel, our Principal Mechanical Engineer and Mechanical Team Lead, a few questions about engineering, leadership and the challenges that come with designing the systems that make buildings work.
One of the more interesting things we discussed was what people tend to overlook when it comes to mechanical engineering.
His answer? The location of temperature sensors.
It might seem like a minor detail, but where a sensor is positioned can influence how a heating or cooling system responds to conditions in a room, and ultimately how comfortable that space feels.
With more than 11 years of experience, Samuel has worked across residential, commercial, education and research projects, including the Australian Museum redevelopment and UNSW Quantum Physics Laboratory. He's a Chartered Professional Engineer and registered Design Practitioner, with extensive experience in HVAC design, multidisciplinary coordination and project leadership.
When we asked how his approach to engineering has changed over the years, Samuel explained that he now considers projects from a broader perspective. Sustainability might drive one development, while another places greater emphasis on capital costs and budgets. Understanding those priorities and tailoring engineering advice to suit each project's objectives is central to his approach.
When it comes to HVAC systems that are more complex than they might appear, Samuel pointed to cooling towers and their associated chilled water systems, where there's considerably more engineering involved than people might expect.
Beyond technical expertise, Samuel values a growth mindset within his team, particularly engineers who are eager to learn and take on new challenges. It's something we see reflected in his own involvement at Goldfish & Bay, where he's always willing to support younger engineers, share his knowledge and contribute to initiatives across the business.
He's also keeping a close eye on the challenges facing mechanical building services, particularly refrigerants, their Global Warming Potential and evolving building regulations.
What stood out from Samuel's answers was the balance between technical detail and broader project thinking. Whether considering the placement of a temperature sensor or the priorities shaping an entire development, his approach reflects an understanding that good engineering is about more than making systems work. It's about making them work for the project and the people who use the building.
Thanks for the chat, Samuel! We appreciate you sharing your perspective and, even more, the enthusiasm and willingness to get involved that you bring to Goldfish & Bay.
