Transgrid Trailblazer - Wei Wang

Role title: Senior Engineer

Length of time at Transgrid: 15 years

Tell us about your role at Transgrid:

I am one of the architects that lay out substations in the high voltage design team as an engineer. 

My daily work involves performing engineering calculations; providing earthing solutions; reviewing the designs of others; communicating design requirements with both internal and external stakeholders; checking for clearances to ensure a compliance with the Australian Standards and/or relevant international standards; and conducting feasibility studies to determine the viability of the project. My role is to provide safe and reliable power to the people of New South Wales. In layman's terms: I do my part to keep the lights on!

What’s your story?

I love travel. It provides an exciting experience to explore different cultures and meet with new people. I love taking photos while travelling, trying new foods, and seeing new cities and architectures, as well as poles and transmission line towers.  

I especially love travelling with my family. It gives me an opportunity to bond with the family and create lasting memories with my children. Additionally, travelling also helps me to disconnect from the mundanity of a repetitive daily routine, and to take my mind off various work-related projects, so that I can spend quality time with my family. 

I also enjoy baking and cooking. To me, cooking and baking can be relaxing and therapeutic. Furthermore, seeing my family enjoying my cooking evokes within me a sense of satisfaction – that I have provided my family with a delicious and nutritious meal.

Favourite career highlight?

As a design engineer, my career has been filled with many highlights and achievements. In recent years, I have been significantly involved in many major projects, such as PEC, QNI (Queensland NSW Interconnector), HumeLink, as well as various wind and solar farm connections. It is very exciting and rewarding to be involved as an active contributor in designing critical infrastructure – ones that will support the needs of a transmission network across states, and renewable generators. 

If you could speak to your younger self, what advice would you give her?

Don’t let external factors define my potential – the paragon of importance manifests itself in the focus toward building a reliable skillset, knowledge, and network. I would have told myself to never be afraid to ask questions, seek feedback, and learn from mistakes. Just as importantly, I would have told myself that it is okay to make mistakes. Mistakes are gold! 

On difficult days, what motivates you?

The belief that I have the potential to make a meaningful impact on society and the world. I am surrounded by supportive people who believe in my abilities and aspirations.  

Best career advice you’ve received?

Never stop learning. The field of engineering is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends. Take advantage of every opportunity to learn, whether it’s through formal education or on-the-job training. 

Stay curious, passionate and resilient, and keep pushing the boundaries of what you can achieve as a female engineer.

Worst career advice you’ve received?

“Engineer is not a good career for a woman. The field has a lower representation of women and a culture that is less welcoming or supportive. Female engineers will face barriers to advancement and recognition that their male counterparts do not.”

I cannot express my appreciation towards the fact that I have never felt these assertations throughout my career.

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