"It is important to see more women in the power industry so they can continue to inspire the next generation of girls to think - That's cool, I want to do that too!."
Ashley Taylor
Graduate Electrical Engineer
WHO ARE THEY: Hi there! My name is Ashley and my journey in electricity began as a child when I remember quizzing my parents about the new solar panels they installed at home. I was curious about how the power from the sun was able to keep the lights on in the evening. I recently completed a double degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from Curtin University in Western Australia. Before jumping into a career in the power industry I worked FIFO alongside electrical engineers and electricians for a few months at a mining company for my first vacation placement. Realising that my passion was in renewables, I looked into working for one of WA's power companies which led me to Western Power. I am currently a graduate engineer at Western Power working in distribution design. One of the best things about working in this area is knowing that you are doing something to help the community and at the same you could be helping change the future of energy for the better.
In my spare time I enjoy playing ice hockey and going for hikes.
KEY STRENGTHS: Team Player, Attention to Detail, Clear Communicator, Learning Mindset, Organisational Skills
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
My Journey
Where it all started for me
In my last year of primary school we were asked “What do you want to be when you grow up?” – this question had stumped me and I didn’t know what to answer. One of my friends turned to me and said “You like science and drawing – why not try engineering?” and so my aspiration to become an engineer was born. Throughout high school I chose physics, chemistry and maths to enable me to apply for engineering in university. After reflecting on my first year of engineering I really enjoyed the electrical and renewable energy units so I decided to pursue a double degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. I really value being able to help others and doing good for the community, so choosing electrical engineering was a way I thought I would be able to give back.
What did I end up studying?
Studied at Curtin University
Entering the industry
Right now is a really exciting time to be in the industry as there is so much change that is happening due to decarbonisation and renewable energies. I am someone who loves working on new and different things, so I am looking forward to see what happens in the industry in the next few decades. As the industry is moving from a traditional one-way flow energy system to a bi-directional flowing system, many challenges have been created. It is exciting to have the opportunity to work on new solutions to battle these challenges. I am also excited to hopefully see a world where we can run on almost full renewable technology as well.
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My previous work experience
My work placement experience
What I'm doing now
My advice for anyone looking to get into the industry?
Take advantage of as many work placements and industry speakers at API events as possible - so you can get a good understanding of the many areas you can specialise in.
How to connect with
Ashley Taylor
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Abby Biles
"As we confront Australia's national skills shortage and the pressure to achieve Net Zero, the inclusion of women in the power industry becomes even more crucial. By leveraging diverse talents and perspectives, we can address these challenges. There are so many incredible women out there who's skills are needed in this space they just need the industry to support them in return."
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What can I do next?
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