Transgrid Trailblazer - Patricia Evangelista

Role title: Project Engineer

Length of time at Transgrid: 5 years

Tell us about your role at Transgrid:

I have the privilege of working with an incredible project team building switch bays and substations to connect renewable energy sources to the grid. My role focuses on project management—overseeing projects from inception to completion. I work closely with various stakeholders within Transgrid, such as development, design, procurement, construction, as well as managing D&C Contractor, customer, and suppliers to deliver the projects on time, within budget and to the highest quality standards.

What’s your story?

I was born and raised on a small island in the Philippines where electricity was unreliable, and toilets and showers were a distant luxury.

At the age of 6, I would start my day at 4:30 AM, walking and travelling for two hours to reach the nearest public school. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance and deep appreciation for life’s simple blessings.

I never imagined that one day, I would be working with a company that keeps the lights on for millions of people, let alone helping lead the transition to a cleaner, greener energy future.

I am profoundly grateful to work at Transgrid, where I am surrounded by amazing people who inspire me every day. My journey from a small island to a significant role in a leading company is a testament to the power of grit and the belief that every encounter is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Favourite career highlight?

It's hard to pick just one career highlight because my time at Transgrid has been filled with enriching experiences. One standout moment for me was completing the Transformer Renewal Program alongside my amazing site manager, Ben Lawty during the pandemic. Despite the numerous challenges we faced—lockdowns, border closures, equipment issues, and resourcing problems—we managed to see the projects through successfully.

But I’d say the present moment is the true highlight.

I feel like I started as a tiny seed five years ago (when I was still a graduate) and now, I'm growing and reaching new heights.

Each new project at Transgrid has been a valuable opportunity to collaborate with diverse teams and meet incredible people, all of whom have played a crucial role in my growth.

Currently I’m also supporting interns and graduates, actively participating in the Energise Network, joining the City2Surf with my colleagues (although I have zero running experience). There are so many more amazing opportunities ahead, and I can’t wait to see what comes next!

If you’re involved in Transgrid Group's social networks or communities, what difference have they made to your working life?

Being involved with the Energise team has been truly 'energising' for me. I love hearing diverse stories and perspectives. I believe that everyone we meet has something valuable to teach us, and these interactions continually broaden my understanding and enrich my work and personal life.

What do you wish you had more time for?

I wish I had more time to create meaningful community events like the one I organized earlier this year on my childhood island. Together with my partner and friends, we provided school supplies, groceries, and badminton rackets to all the children on the island. (Fun fact: I started learning how to play badminton last year and got so into it that my goal is now to qualify to represent Australia at the Olympics for LGBTQ+ Ally in Spain in 2026!) We also played traditional Filipino games and gave away prizes. The event brought so much joy to the children and their parents. More importantly, we aimed to inspire the kids to study hard, prioritize their health, and dream big, so that one day, they too could give back to their community.

What is the best and worst career advice you’ve received?

The best advice I've received is to never undersell yourself. Just because you’re young and new to the workplace doesn’t mean you’re less valuable. You bring unique skills and fresh perspectives to the table, and that’s incredibly important.

The worst advice I've heard is "fake it till you make it."  Don’t pretend you know everything. Instead, lean on the expertise of those around you and focus on mastering your craft. You'll find that people are more than willing to help, support you, and see you succeed.

Who inspires you to be your best?

My family inspires me to be my best. My grandmother and my mom, who both had to leave school early to work and raise children, have always been my biggest motivators. Their sacrifices drive me to seize every opportunity, such as moving to Australia to study, knowing they didn't have the same chances.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their career in your industry?

• Every person you meet could open doors to new opportunities, both personally and professionally – so build good relationships!
• Take initiative and be enthusiastic. Be proactive in seeking out new ways to contribute and support your team.
• Be persistent and tenacious. You’ll develop your skills overtime, with the help of the amazing people around you. So, stay curious and keep learning. Ask as many questions as you can!

This article was originally published on our Transgrid Energize network. This network supports women at Transgrid to build stronger connections.