"To facilitate the major change this industry faces, we will need a major change in the dynamic of its workforce."
Miriam Maher
High Voltage Design Intern
WHO ARE THEY: I was born and raised in Sydney's inner west, and I've never really left that comfort zone until I started university and my internship role with Transgrid. I attended an all-girls high school which instilled in me an idea that the future of women in STEM would be bright, and that I would always be able to find women in my journey to rely on. But when I began my undergrad degree in electrical engineering, reality definitely set in. Being the only woman in a room became the new norm, and the isolation that experience often caused was and is my greatest challenge. Luckily, experience in the power industry has shown me a light at the end of the tunnel, and I'm reminded of that excitement I used to have in high school physics. The friendships and mentors I've found have been invaluable, and my greatest hope is that I can continue that by being a mentor for the next generation.
KEY STRENGTHS: Communication, leadership, presentation, curiosity.
WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?
My Journey
Where it all started for me
I choose my degree mostly based on what made me most excited to continue learning. I knew I wasn't finished with maths and physics, and I wasn't done building circuits and accidentally short-circuiting school equipment. I was also aware that whatever I would do, I wouldn't be able to stay stagnant, and I wouldn't be able to witness innovation from the sidelines, which is where the power industry came in. The technology and the global opportunities for the industry assured me that I could find a place perfectly suited to me using an electrical engineering degree.
What did I end up studying?
Studied at University of Technology Sydney
Entering the industry
The collaboration that we are witnessing right now between different parts of the industry to reach this global net-zero goal is amazing. Ideas and innovations are being shared and showcased, companies are communicating their challenges and finding solutions with other companies, and the public want to help achieve this goal. We are understanding more about the importance of efficiency, and we are recognising all the faults in the industry that hold us back.
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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
Miriam Maher
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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?
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!
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