Narayanan reflects on his career journey and shares how these systems improve safety and reliability, and why seeing their real-world impact is the most rewarding part of his role.
Can you tell us about your career journey and how you became an ITS Engineer?
My journey into ITS started with a graduate role at WS Atkins in the UK, where I worked on motorway control and communications systems. That’s where I first saw how technology could be used to solve real-world transport problems, and I was hooked.
Since then, my career has taken me across the UK, the Middle East, and Australia. In the UK, I worked on smart motorway schemes and traffic control centre upgrades. In Dubai and Qatar, I led ITS designs for major infrastructure projects, including preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Later in Perth, I helped set up ITS contracts and delivered several first-of-their-kind freeway projects for Main Roads WA.
Each role offered me a new perspective, whether it was systems design, stakeholder engagement, or leading multidisciplinary teams. Eventually, I moved to Sydney and joined Transurban, where I’ve continued to grow and now lead critical ITS projects as Principal Engineer. It’s been a journey shaped by curiosity, adaptability, and a passion for using technology to make transport better.
What exactly is Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) engineering?
ITS engineering is all about using technology to make transport networks smarter, safer, and more efficient. It brings together electronics, communications, software, and systems thinking to solve real-world problems, like reducing congestion, improving safety, or helping people get to their destination more reliably.
Whether it’s variable message signs that alert drivers to incidents, or smart motorways that adapt to traffic conditions in real time, ITS is the invisible layer of intelligence that keeps modern road networks running smoothly.
What role does ITS engineering play at Transurban?
At Transurban, ITS Engineering is at the heart of how we deliver safe and reliable journeys. We’re the in-house experts on transport technology designing, delivering, and maintaining the systems that power everything from tolling to traffic management.
Our team works across the full lifecycle of ITS infrastructure, from concept and design through to implementation and long-term support. We also play a key role in shaping strategy, ensuring our systems are future-ready and aligned with the needs of our customers and assets.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as an ITS Engineer?
What I find most rewarding is seeing the real-world impact of our work. When a system we’ve designed helps reduce congestion or improves safety, it’s a great feeling. I also enjoy mentoring engineers and being part of a team that’s constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in transport technology. It’s a space where innovation meets purpose.
How has Transurban supported your career growth?
Transurban has been a fantastic place to grow. I’ve had the opportunity to take on strategic roles, lead complex ITS initiatives, and collaborate across different teams and disciplines. The culture here encourages innovation and continuous learning, and I’ve always felt supported in stepping into new challenges. It’s helped me evolve both technically and as a leader.
What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in ITS engineering?
Stay curious and be open to learning, this field is always evolving. Build a strong foundation in engineering but also develop your communication and problem-solving skills. Real-world experience is invaluable, so get involved in projects, industry events, or forums where you can learn from others and stay ahead of emerging trends. Sometimes the most unexpected roles or projects can teach you the most. If you’re passionate about technology and want to make a real-world impact, ITS is a great place to be.
