From a technical standpoint, with a background in Power Systems and Control Systems, I've always found fulfillment in tackling complex issues and embracing new challenges within the Power System domain and emerging technologies. My self-motivation, coupled with strong communication and interpersonal skills, has facilitated collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders in the Energy Sector - a crucial aspect of my role that I thoroughly enjoy. I firmly believe that the Power Industry is where I belong to fulfill these aspirations.
Who am I
I am Tara Mehr from Western Australia.
I am a Ph.D. qualified Principal Power System Engineer with +10 years’ experience in both industry (+8 years) and academia in the field of Power & Energy. My expertise lies in technical knowledge, analytical thinking, communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and project management.
I have been living in Perth for 10 years now,
What I love about WA is the weather, the bike trails and of course our beautiful beaches.
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Why I chose a career in power
May seem strange, but I have discovered my passion for Electrical Engineering when I was 10 years old. As I began studying this field in university and became more familiar with the concepts through the courses, I was certain that I was on the right path. Starting to work in industry was a new journey and way more challenging. However, I was so busy devoting myself to building my skills and complementing them with my aptitude and personal fulfillment that I never stopped feeling like I was moving forward.
Where it all started
I have received B.Sc, M.Sc and PhD, all in Electrical Engineering. I got my PhD degree from Curtin University in Perth, WA. During my Post Graduate degrees, I had gained teaching and research experience at university.
Also, prior to joining the Utility (i.e. Western Power), I worked with GHD which is a multi-disciplinary consultancy company. I really enjoyed myself at the private sector and the fact that I was exposed to working with different External Stakeholders such as TransGrid, Horizon Power, Western Power, etc.
My work experience.
What's next?
Currently, I am a Principal Planning Engineer in Grid Transformation Function in WP, I work within the Transmission Grid Strategy and Planning Area. As part of my role, I lead connection projects for Grid Scale Batteries, WF and SFs from the planning aspect. My involvement with these projects is from the very early stage of enquiry assessment workshops moving toward the planning related studies, up to the commissioning tests and approval for generation. I am also involved with the strategic planning of our future SWIS to make net-zero happen. Generally, our journey toward clean energy and a more climate resilience network is super exciting for me. Of course, there are challenges toward this goal as we have to plan and build new transmission infrastructure and at the same time ensure our customers have access to reliable electricity. But the fact that we are at the beginning of a once-in-a generation opportunity makes these challenges really exciting for us.