5 June 2019
Victorian energy network business AusNet has awarded scholarships to two female engineering students as part of the AusNet ‘Women in Power Engineering’ Scholarship Program, in partnership with Deakin University.
The Scholarship Program, now in its fourth year, aims to encourage and support women to gain tertiary qualifications in power engineering, and prepare them for diverse and rewarding careers in an industry where women are under-represented.
The financial scholarships, valued at $10,000 over a normal period of study, also provide successful recipients with mentoring support, vocational opportunities and career pathways.
Deakin Engineering Students Mackinley Collins and Haoyue (Haley) Zhang were presented with the scholarships at a special awards night at Waurn Ponds Campus, Deakin University, on Thursday 30 May 2019.
Alistair Parker, Executive General Manager of Regulated Energy Services at AusNet, who presented the scholarships said:
“We are very proud to offer these scholarships in partnership with Deakin University, and we look forward to supporting Mackinley and Haley in their studies and careers in Power Engineering. It’s an exciting time to be part of the energy industry, and engineers are at the very forefront of the changes in the way energy is created and managed.
“As the sector continues to transform, AusNet recognises the importance of investing in education to build participation in science, engineering and energy, and we are committed to increasing gender diversity in the industry”.
Mackinley Collins, Bachelor of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Deakin University said:
“I am deeply grateful to AusNet for recognising my interest in Engineering and providing me with a platform to develop in the industry and to contribute to my community and the future in the industry. I am confident this scholarship will be invaluable for industry opportunities and for establishing new relationships with Australia’s leaders in renewable energy, power generation and distribution.”
Haley Zhang, Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering at Deakin University said:
“My life-long goal is to create designs that are revolutionary and long-lasting. To achieve this, I plan to study and grow within the industry and focus on the world’s emerging technologies. I would also like to complete a Master’s and PhD so this scholarship will help me as I work towards my goals.”
The two recipients for 2019 join five other recipients of the Women in Power Engineering Scholarship. The scholarships are part of a broader five year partnership between AusNet and Deakin University that also includes two PhD scholarships and a postdoctoral research position.
The partnership between Deakin University and AusNet was established in 2015 to engage women in careers of Power Engineering. The partnership with also includes sponsorship of one Post-Doctoral Fellow position and two PhD research positions. The research being conducted relates to network safety and new technologies, as well as community energy and demand response programs.
About AusNet
AusNet is Victoria's largest energy delivery service, owning and operating approximately $11 billion of regulated electricity and gas distribution and transmission assets that connect into more than 1.4 million Victorian homes and businesses. Through its Mondo business, the company provides a range of contracted infrastructure, asset intelligence and energy services. AusNet is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: AST).