In spirit of International Women's Day, we're introducing two of our new recruits to our Graduate Program - Karley and Li Yen.

Karley Donnelly

• What did you study and what drew you to this industry?

I studied a Bachelor of Information Technology at UniSA. I had an interest in Information Technology (IT) through studying it at school, and after going to various Uni Open Days, decided I would love to pursue it. I am also interested in technology and how it plays a part in day-to-day life.

• Why SA Power Networks?

​​​​​​​In my last year of Uni, I attended a UniSA Career Expo and stopped at the SAPN booth. I spoke to someone there who advised me of the graduate program and what it entails. Right off the bat, it was the most appealing program by far due to the amount of experience it brings and the guarantee of full-time employment at the end. I had also heard amazing things about the company as an employer, so I just knew I had to apply.

• What’s in store for you professionally in 2019?

A lot of experience and a lot of learning! During 2019 I’ll rotate through five difference IT departments (which I am beyond excited for). I’ll be meeting lots of new people along the way and I look forward to developing professional relationships in the industry. I’m hoping to use the experience to improve my professional self and improve my knowledge in the industry (both IT and electrical).

• Being a female in what is a traditionally a male-dominated industry, do you have any advice to females looking to go into this area?

My advice would be to embrace it, and try not to let it worry you if you have a class or workplace with only a handful of women in comparison to men (it can be daunting at first). If you are easy to get along with, and you’re willing to work hard, then you should have no problem making a good impression - just the same as anyone else. I know that I have made great friends along the way, both male and female, and I have no regrets in the industry I have chosen.

• What do you do for fun?

One of the main things I like to do is catch up with friends. I also enjoy playing some video games and I love going to concerts.

Li Yen Sim

• What did you study and what drew you to this industry?

I completed a Bachelor of Electrical and Sustainable Energy Engineering at the University of Adelaide. I chose this particular degree due to my curiosity of the developing electricity network. After graduating from University I worked in the engineering consultancy field as an electrical services engineer in Building Services and Transport for a couple of years. Although I thoroughly enjoyed my time in this industry, I was still set on pursuing my goal of developing my career in the energy industry which led me to SA Power Networks.

• Why SA Power Networks?

I grew up passing the Keswick building every day, so I’ve literally had this company in my sights for a long time. Apart from my key interest of working in and contributing to the energy sector, I heard positive comments from existing employees about SA Power Networks, in particular regarding the great people and the work culture. Furthermore, I find the company’s modest contribution to the community to be a highly admirable aspect.

• What’s in store for you professionally in 2019?

I’m currently on my first graduate rotation in the Secondary Substation Design team and learning how to use a design software tool. Throughout this year, I’m looking forward to learning more about SA Power Networks, meeting different people and taking on new challenges and opportunities. I’m also excited for the graduate mentoring programme.

• Being a female in what is a traditionally a male-dominated industry, do you have any advice to females looking to go into this area?

I think the important pieces of advice I can give is to have confidence in yourself, stay positive and voice your own thoughts and ideas. If you need some assistance, seek out your female seniors who have probably already been through the same experiences and would be willing to provide a helping hand.

• What do you do for fun?

Outside of work, I enjoy a bit of friendly competition through badminton and both computer and board games. I also enjoy doing handicraft projects which allows me to be creative.