'I don't think I have ever been able to look at anything without starting to try and make sense of how or why it works. I didn't know the word for this kind of thinking until I reached high school, where my school offered an engineering class in year 11 and 12. From that point, I knew this was exactly what I wanted to study.'

Makenzie Moor

Mechanical Engineer

WHO IS SHE:

In my current role at Aurecon, I’m challenged on something new and exciting every day – from technical due diligence, to detailed engineering design, to energy modelling, to concept studies – all focussing on renewable energy generation, all types of energy storage and alternative fuels (such as hydrogen). I have had the pleasure of working the energy industry for 4 years now, during one of the most exciting times this industry faces in decarbonisation and electrification. I have technical, commercial, and operational experience in renewable energy, storage, hybrid microgrids and waste-to-energy generation. Before joining Aurecon I worked previously at EDL, where I worked mostly on their hybrid power stations. With this background in power generation, I'm working on now further diversifying my capabilities and technical knowledge in the consulting world. I love every part of being an engineer, particularly that our work is not possible without collaboration - something I thoroughly enjoy.

KEY STRENGTHS:

Technically: hybrid renewable energy systems and energy storage. Professionally: Communication, understanding and simplifying complex problems, leadership, teamwork, passionate and energetic about my field of work.

WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?

I don't think I have ever been able to look at anything without starting to try and make sense of how or why it works. I didn't know the word for this kind of thinking until I reached high school, where my school offered an engineering class in year 11 and 12. From that point, I knew this was exactly what I wanted to study. During my degree I bounced around majors until I fell in love with aerospace engineering (what's cooler than figuring out rockets and planes, right?!). It wasn't until I landed a chance internship at an energy company that I realised that, while I will forever be a space fan, that I wanted to put my skills to use in a sector where I could be part of meaningful change.

My Journey

Where it all started for me

Completed High School

What did I end up studying?

Started at EDL as a graduate engineer - Before joining Aurecon I worked previously at EDL, where I worked mostly on their hybrid power stations.

Entering the industry

My previous work experience

Started studying a Bachelor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering - During my degree I bounced around majors until I fell in love with aerospace engineering (what's cooler than figuring out rockets and planes, right?!). It wasn't until I landed a chance internship at an energy company that I realised that, while I will forever be a space fan, that I wanted to put my skills to use in a sector where I could be part of meaningful change.

My work placement experience

Currently at Aurecon, I’m challenged on something new and exciting every day – from technical due diligence, to detailed engineering design, to energy modelling, to concept studies – all focussing on renewable energy generation, all types of energy storage and alternative fuels (such as hydrogen).

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

Makenzie Moor

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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."

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

Makenzie Moor

Abby Biles

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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."

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