How would you introduce yourself in one sentence?

A lad from Queenstown with a passion for renewable energy, recycling and socialising.

Why did you choose to study electrical engineering?

I have a passion for energy. Thinking of different methods to capture, generate, store and utilise it fascinates me. Electrical engineering helps me to advance my ideas and bring them into reality.

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

Our final year project group was assigned the task of supplying 50% of Nauru’s energy from a renewable source. For me this has been a huge opportunity to learn about the challenges that come with renewable energy of which there are many. My focus was on Inverter modeling and research alongside an investigation into an optimum combination of battery and installed solar. The project has taught me a great deal and increased my passion for renewable systems and the challenges they face.

Outside electricity, I have been involved in the Olympics twice, managed large events for Sky City Casino, been involved in major roading projects, spent time in Australia’s mines and volunteered with disadvantaged children in America. All of these experiences have taught me a great deal and presented me with many opportunities that all seem to have somehow led me toward electricity. Random I know!

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

I want to help solve the problems that renewables face in being incorporated into the network. I also want to help grow the recycling industry in New Zealand. Recycling requires significant amounts of energy that will boost demand for electricity thus helping grow the power sector.

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 wanting to specialise in power engineering?

Follow your passions. Put your effort into being the best at what you enjoy doing and everything else will fall into place. If you like problem solving then quite frankly engineering is the place for you.

I spent a long time thinking I needed to overcome all my weaknesses only to realise later that if you become amazing at what you love doing the weaknesses no longer matter.

The power industry is characterised by people who love what they do. If you want a bright future in one of the most crucial industries in the world then I highly recommend power engineering.