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"I think that power engineering is an amazing way to use technical skills to drive massive global positive change."

Esandi Kalugalage

API Bursary Recipient (Graduating 2023)

WHO ARE THEY: I am a final year electrical engineering and data science minor student at the University of Queensland. I am passionate about solving the challenges posed by the power industry's transition to renewables using engineering and data science. I am an enthusiastic team player and always strive to bring out the best in everyone around me. I am also a big advocate of encouraging other young women to pursue careers in power engineering

Esandi Kalugalage

KEY STRENGTHS: Communication, commitment and data science

WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?

Power engineers are the ones driving the charge towards renewables! Not only is it a nice feeling to know you contributed towards increasing renewable penetration (literally saving the world), the uncertainty and challenge that comes with the transition excites me. I think that power engineering is an amazing way to use technical skills to drive massive global positive change.
Construction plan

My Journey

Where it all started for me

Completed High School

What did I end up studying?

Bachelor of Engineering (Hons), major in Electrical, minor in Data Science from the University of Queensland

Entering the industry

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My previous work experience

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My work placement experience

I have found work experience at Energy Queensland to be very rewarding. I only truly understood how the power network operates, as well as the complexities brought on by the renewable energy transition after work placement. Not only did I develop technical and communication skills, I have learnt a lot by speaking to other professionals and students (something that can't be taught at university)!

What I'm doing now

In the near future, I would like to be in a graduate role that allows me to solve power industry problems collaboratively and innovatively, and allows me to be the best version of myself. Later on, I want to continue playing my part in delivering safe, reliable and affordable clean energy to customers. I also want to continue encouraging young women to pursue careers in the power industry.

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

Esandi Kalugalage

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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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Liana Lidden-Verney

"There is no gender monopoly on the skills needed in the industry. By having a workforce with diverse perspectives and experiences, we fuel innovation and innovation is exactly what this industry will be reliant on for generations to come."

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Katrina Thomlinson

"There is value in every industry from diversity of thought and one way to bring diversity is employ more women in the workforce. Women bring different values, perspectives and approaches to solve the problems of today and into the future."

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What can I do next?

No matter if you're at high-school or at university, we have great programs and resources to get you started on your journey towards power engineering!

High School Students
University Students

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