How would you introduce yourself in one sentence?

I grew up in Queenstown and developed a keen interest in the outdoors.

Why did you choose to study electrical engineering?

After 10 years in the electrical supply industry I decided to take my qualifications one step further and obtain my degree.

In which projects have you been involved in and outside of university? What challenges and opportunities did you encounter?

Before returning to university I was involved in many power distribution projects. I have been involved in almost all of the snow making projects undertaken around the Southern Lakes region. Working on ski fields in snow sometimes up to your waist definitely builds character.

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

I believe the way we use energy is changing and the supply industry will need to change to cope with future demands. I would like to be part of the next generation of engineers who take the industry into the future.

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?

My advice to those leaving high school is to take some time to figure out what it is that interests you before starting to study further. Also never be afraid to change what you’re doing. To those wanting to study power systems i would say the power industry can provide a very exciting and rewarding career so study hard.