"It's exciting to see the current challenges that present major opportunities for the power industry which will require, different ways of thinking in order to solve, and will help to bring together people from all walks of life to foster a sense of community and curiously moving forward."

James Watson

API Bursary Recipient (Graduating 2023)

WHO ARE THEY: As a Sustainable Systems Engineering student with a focus on grid systems and smart technologies, I believe I am well positioned to make a meaningful contribution to the power industry.

I have experience working as an ecologist for several councils, which has given me the ability to work with a diverse range of stakeholders and find solutions that benefit all parties involved.

With a curious and problem-solving mindset, I welcome the chance to tackle the challenges of the power industry and contribute to the development of sustainable systems that benefit society and the environment.

KEY STRENGTHS: Problem solving/curiosity, being a team player, communication

WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?

The power sector is on the cusp of a renaissance in how humanity creates, harnesses, and uses energy in so many forms. There are many societal challenges that lay before us such as in dealing with climate change mitigation, changing our storage and transport of energy through new grid systems, and thinking of the interaction between small- and large-scale requirements. Working in the power industry also provides the chance to collaborate with like-minded individuals, gain valuable skills and knowledge, and contribute to the greater good. As we move towards a more sustainable future, those who choose a career in the power industry will be at the forefront of change, driving progress and shaping the world we live in for generations to come.

My Journey

Where it all started for me

Completed High School

What did I end up studying?

Bachelor of Engineering (Sustainable Systems Engineering) (Honours) from RMIT University

Entering the industry

My previous work experience

My work placement experience

Working with Beon Energy solutions during a summer placement. This experience provided me with an insight into the design and construction of electrical infrastructure as well as the critical role that providing new systems to our grid will help to solve the problems of tomorrow.
This experience included meeting a wide array of experts from different fields who are working together to provide innovative solutions for the provision of future energy generation and grid infrastructure services.

What I'm doing now

As an aspiring professional in the power industry, my future work goals are to develop innovative solutions clean energy production, designing and implementing smart grid systems, increasing energy efficiency and contributing to the development of sustainable energy policies.
Ultimately, a major goals is my desire to make a positive impact on the environment, advance the industry through technological innovation, and contribute to the development of a more sustainable future for generations to come.

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

James Watson

View more profiles

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."

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."

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."

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

"It's exciting to see the current challenges that present major opportunities for the power industry which will require, different ways of thinking in order to solve, and will help to bring together people from all walks of life to foster a sense of community and curiously moving forward."

James Watson

Abby Biles

Read more

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."

Read more

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."

Read more