2. A passion for green energy and sustainability
For RMIT alumnus Laura Stolle, Head of HVDC Upgrades and Refurbishments at Siemens Energy in Germany, taking your passion from your studies and putting it into practice is key.
"Working with likeminded people who are passionate about what they're doing makes it even more rewarding when we’re tackling the challenges we see in the energy sector," she said.
Stolle, who studied power electronics at RMIT as an exchange student, started her career in the renewables sector in offshore wind.
"When I was a student, I completed an internship in the northern region of Germany at a renewable energy group, working with around 20 people in the offshore wind department," Stolle said.
"It had a real start up feeling, making it exciting to work in this space and sparking my interest in renewable energy.
"I could see it as a sector that is evolving and growing – one with a future that is going to be of benefit for all."
3. A combination of technical and soft skills
When it comes to the skills needed to be job ready, it’s a combination of both technical and soft skills, according to RMIT alumnus Drew Cormack, Head of Operations at Solarcentury Africa.
"In terms of specific programs and systems in my industry, HOMER energy for hybrid energy systems is one of the fundamental ones. And if you're going to be a solar engineer, the likes of PVSyst and PVcase will also be valued," Cormack said.
"Complementary qualifications such as in project management will also be very helpful, depending on what area of the sector you’re aspiring to enter."
Cormack, who studied a Master of Engineering (Sustainable Energy) at RMIT, also said soft skills such as communicating with confidence are needed.
"Be prepared to get out of your comfort zone, even if it's a bit awkward and a bit difficult," he said.
"Human skills such as confidence, perseverance, focus and determination will really help you succeed.
"Maybe you're going to make mistakes along the way, as we all have done, but put yourself out there and go for it – those who dare, win."
Story: Karen Matthews
Photo: George Becker from Pexels
