James' story
Hear James' experience of the Grid Connection Engineer Graduate program.
James is part of the first cohort of the Grid Connection Engineer Graduate Program. In his second rotation, we asked how she's been getting on.
What organisation are you currently working with and what kind of projects are you involved in day to day?
My current rotation is with Vestas, working in the Power Systems Performance Analysis (PSPA) team within the Grid Division. I’ve worked on a few projects during my rotation, with sites located in WA and NSW. My involvement has been developing detailed PowerFactory models and running some initiation studies for the sites (i.e. load flow and short-circuit studies).
How did you find the experience of moving from your first rotation into your second? What were the biggest learnings?
Whilst it was sad leaving the team I’d worked with at Alinta Energy, it was also exciting moving on to a new area within the energy industry. Similar to my first rotation, I initially felt nervous meeting my new team and taking on unfamiliar tasks and projects. However, I quickly realised the most important first step was to build strong connections with my new colleagues and become familiar with Vestas’ systems and layout. After establishing that foundation, I was able to confidently begin working on tasks and engaging in projects.
Where are you headed next and what are you looking forward to?
My third rotation will be with RWE renewables. I’m excited to learn their processes for developing projects and how it differs from what I’ve seen during my past rotations. Building an understanding of project development from various perspectives across the industry is a great way to learn and is exactly why this program is so special.
Do you have any advice for future grads considering this program or who want to work in clean energy?
If you have any interest in the energy sector whatsoever, this program is the perfect way to begin your career. Few graduates can claim to have worked for four different companies in their industry within just two years. My advice is to say yes to every opportunity that passes your way during your rotations and avoid becoming too focused on a single task. This program is about broadening your perspective across various areas within the industry; the finer details can wait until you’ve decided what area you want to work within.