"The power sector is currently going through historical change. This means many problems and challenges, but even more opportunities!"

Rhett Lamperd

API Bursary Recipient (Graduating 2023)

WHO ARE THEY: I am a final-year Electrical Engineering student studying at Central Queensland University in Cairns. I currently live in a small town called Tolga, situated on the Atherton Tablelands. Growing up here has enabled me to enjoy many activities such as camping, fishing and exploring the local area. I am passionate about power and keen to make a positive impact within the industry!

KEY STRENGTHS: Team Player, Problem Solver, Future Orientated

WHY CHOOSE THIS DEGREE?

The power industry has always interested me and with the projected growth within the sector, this interest has only grown! Power is a necessary part of our modern lifestyle and is something that everyone relies on. This has motivated me to pursue a career in the power sector, as I know that the work I will be doing will have an important impact on people's lives. Bring on net zero!

My Journey

Where it all started for me

Completed High School

What did I end up studying?

Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (Honours) from Central Queensland University

Entering the industry

My previous work experience

My work placement experience

I have been lucky enough to experience two industry placements within Energy Queensland, both within the regulated and unregulated sectors. During these placements, I was able to attend multiple site visits, including substation tours and a chartered flight to Doomadgee, located in the gulf of Queensland.

What I'm doing now

I am looking forward to graduating at the end of this year before gaining employment with a company with a well-established graduate program to build my technical expertise. I eventually want to move into the project management space and work on large-scale decarbonisation projects to drive net zero in Australia.

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

Rhett Lamperd

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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

"The power sector is currently going through historical change. This means many problems and challenges, but even more opportunities!"

Rhett Lamperd

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