As part of Transgrid’s Mentorship Program, Graduates are paired with an experienced mentor in the business and get the opportunity to experience a ‘Day in the Life’ with their mentor.
Graduate Program
Mentee & Mentor day in the life - Max Cooper and Aqdas Naeem
20 December 2024
Our 2024 Graduates Max Cooper and Aqdas Naeem share about the day they spent with mentors Edwin Ong and David Elliot, providing a fantastic glimpse into the amazing work happening at Transgrid every day.
Max’s story: Attending the 'Vanadium Flow Battery: 40th Anniversary Symposium' with Senior Manager Emerging Technologies Edwin Ong
The below is written by Max Cooper, during his second rotation in Transgrid’s 2024 Graduate Program.
On October 16th, I participated in ‘a day in the life’ of my mentor, Edwin Ong, as a part of the July to February 2024 Mentorship Program. Due to our differing technical backgrounds, we decided upon this date at the commencement of the program as Edwin was giving a presentation at the ‘Vanadium Flow Battery: 40th Anniversary Symposium’, and this would be a great opportunity for me to learn as well as see my mentor in his area of expertise.
Edwin Ong during his presentation at the symposium
This symposium examined the role and feasibility of flow batteries as a Long Duration Energy Storage (LDES) solution within our grid, and it was interesting to hear not only Edwin’s presentation on Transgrid’s approach to energy storage, but also how this technology is advancing in Australia and the rest of the world. Other presentations included a discussion panel of Energy and Climate Finance experts, as well as a talk from a political body, which touched on all aspects of why and how this technology could be implemented.
This was a great chance for me to network with other industry professionals as Edwin introduced me to many individuals working in a range of focuses, from research and development to policy building. The morning at the symposium was extremely beneficial to me, and it was great to see my mentor in that environment as well.
Following the symposium, we returned to Ultimo where I sat down with Edwin and he ran me through the main areas of work he was currently focused on. This was really eye-opening as, being a first-year graduate, I haven’t been exposed to too many business units within Transgrid Group, and so seeing his works within the network team was fascinating. I was introduced to his manager and was able to sit in on one of his meetings where I was welcomed by other team members/colleagues and learned more about some of the initiatives Edwin is involved in.
Overall, the ‘Day in the Life’ experience was very enriching and beneficial to me, and I look forward to catching up with Edwin again at our next fortnightly meeting and continuing to learn from him and pick his brain as I continue my professional development as a graduate within Transgrid Group.
Aqdas’ story: Visiting the Discovery Hub in Wagga Wagga with Delivery Transmissions Manager David Elliot
The below is written by Aqdas Naeem, during his second rotation in Transgrid’s 2024 Graduate Program.
With my current manager’s approval, I traveled to Wagga Wagga to meet my mentor, David Elliot. Upon arriving, Dave welcomed me, and I had to put on my safety gear—hard hats, high-visibility vests, safety glasses and steel-capped boots.
David (on left) and Aqdas (on right) at the Discovery Hub in Wagga Wagga
As it was already midday, the transmission lines team, along with a board member and the project director Rob Harrison had a scheduled meeting with our delivery partner Elecnor, to get an update on the progress tracking for all construction and stringing activities for Project Energy Connect (PEC).
After the meeting, we all headed back to the Discovery Hub where I quickly logged in and responded to a few work emails. We then planned to meet up for a dinner at a local restaurant with the transmission lines team.
The next morning, I shadowed my mentor throughout the day, starting from a constructive planning meeting with project and site managers. In the afternoon, we drove out to Line 5 and began by inspecting several transmission line structures.
During our journey, I asked Dave about a site manager role, where he shared stories from his career. He highlighted the importance of communication and teamwork, emphasising that managing a site is about both project and people management.
As we checked the towers, we discussed safety protocols and compliance measures. My mentor pointed out the significance of risk assessment and emergency preparedness—essential skills for anyone aiming for a site management role.
During lunch, I asked about the skills needed for a FIFO position. He emphasised adaptability, resilience, and strong problem-solving abilities, along with a solid understanding of regulatory requirements. He also outlined the diverse responsibilities of a site manager, from scheduling and budgeting to stakeholder engagement.
As the day ended, I felt inspired and motivated. This immersive experience not only deepened my understanding of site management but also clarified my career path. With my mentor's guidance, I left with renewed purpose and a wealth of knowledge to help shape my future in the industry.
As an electrical engineer with six months of site experience during my first rotation with the transmission lines team, I was excited to spend a day with my mentor at the PEC Wagga Wagga Line 5. This opportunity promised valuable insights into the role of a project engineer or a site manager.
Aqdas (on left) with his mentor David (on right) and the PEC lines team
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Both Max and Aqdas’ stories capture the value of mentorship and showcase the diverse journeys and experiences within the people in our network. Find more stories like this on Prosple, including reviews, advice, videos, and office tours!