Welcoming Two Inspiring Leaders to the API Community

The Australian Power Institute (API) is delighted to welcome two exceptional women stepping into influential leadership roles across Australia’s energy sector: Jackie Trad, newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Clean Energy Council (CEC), and Suzanne Shipp, newly announced Chief Engineer at Energy Queensland, one of API’s valued member organisations. 

These appointments reflect the growing strength and diversity of leadership shaping Australia’s energy transition. Both Jackie and Suzanne bring deep expertise, vision, and a commitment to collaboration that will continue to inspire those working across the power and renewables industries. 

Jackie Trad, Chief Executive Officer, Clean Energy Council 

In August 2025, Jackie Trad joined the CEC, bringing a wealth of experience in energy and climate policy, coupled with strong advocacy and political insight from her time as Deputy Premier and Treasurer of Queensland. 

“I have no misconceptions about the challenges ahead for the sector including the need for policy consistency across jurisdictions, driving reform to secure greater investment certainty, continued growth in consumer energy resources and a high-level of scrutiny as we secure social license in regional Australia,” Jackie said. 

“I am clear-eyed and confident that, together, we will meet those challenges and the ambitious targets that have been set for our industry, as we continue on the pathway to a reliable, affordable, decarbonised energy future for this country. I look forward to engaging deeply and working in partnership with our members, our key stakeholders, communities and government.” 

Read more about Jackie’s appointment here. 

Suzanne Shipp — Chief Engineer, Energy Queensland 

Suzanne Shipp joined Energy Queensland’s Executive Leadership Team in September 2025 as Chief Engineer, responsible for engineering and asset management across the Ergon Energy and Energex networks. With over 30 years of experience, Suzanne’s career spans the military, energy transmission, and critical infrastructure management — combining technical excellence with strong leadership. 

Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Electronics Engineering, First Class Honours), an MBA, and recognition as a Chartered and Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland. In 2025, she was also recognised with the Women in Industry Excellence in Energy Award for her outstanding contribution to the sector. 

Suzanne continues to lead by example — balancing operational excellence with advocacy and community service through her board roles with the Currumbin Palm Beach RSL Sub Branch and the Men’s Information and Support Association (MISA). 

At the API, we are proud to collaborate with, and learn from, leaders like Jackie and Suzanne. Their experience and insight strengthen the partnerships that drive innovation, diversity, and inclusion across the power sector. 

We look forward to working with both of these brilliant women through our many events, programs, and partnerships as we continue to power Australia’s energy future — together. ⚡