How would you introduce yourself in one sentence?

I was born and raised in the coolest little capital, Wellington. I am a bubbly, adventurous person who consistently suffers from wanderlust as I love discovering new cultures and places around the world.

Why did you choose to study engineering?

For as long as I can remember, I always dreamed of having a job as a rollercoaster designer. From there I was constantly playing with k-nex rollercoasters and designing personalised ones for my friends. My love for mathematics and figuring out how things work is what inspired me to pursue engineering. The endless possibilities and opportunities that engineering can offer has driven me to continue this pathway.

In which projects have you been involved in and outside of university?

During University, there are several electronic design courses that have large projects associated with them. These included designing a smart fan for a refrigerator and a wireless energy monitor. In my final year of University, I was required to work on a research project. This project was based on electricity smart meter data applications using big data analytics and artificial neural networks.

For my practical work experience, I was a part of several projects at both Meridian Energy and Beca. I was involved in projects based in hydro stations, control gates and substations.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed when first faced with big engineering tasks. But the people and networks opportunities you are presented with through projects are always invaluable. Projects open amazing chances to develop communication skills.

How would you like to contribute to the electricity supply industry in the future?

I am very passionate about New Zealand increasing its renewable energy portfolio. Although at the moment, it may be argued that a 100% renewable energy goal is not achievable, I like to believe in what others say is impossible. Thus, I would like to contribute to the New Zealand electricity industry by bringing it steps closer to 100% renewable energy.

What is the most important piece of advice you would give to high school students wanting to start a degree in engineering? And to university students who are about to select their engineering specialisation?

Make the harder choice, not the easier one! By pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, you will start the most important leadership role of your life – personal leadership. It is a vulnerable and tough choice to be an engineer. To become one can be challenging and stressful but the rewards of being an engineer are endless.

When it comes to choosing your engineering specialisation, don’t choose the ‘trendy’ or ‘mainstream’ option. Do what you are passionate about so that you are excited to get up every day and learn something new.