International Women’s Day: Hear from Corio’s Women In Wind
Corio Generation is proud to celebrate International Women’s Day 2023.
Today is an opportunity to recognise the achievements of women around the globe. At Corio, we strive to do this each and every day. As an innovative and fast-growing business, we will always benefit from greater diversity and continue to encourage more women to join our industry.
Over the past month, we have been shining the spotlight on women across our company and their contribution to building next generation offshore windfarms. Inspired by industry-wide initiatives led by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), our #WomenInWind campaign on social media features women from all levels, across various offices and functions.
Our colleagues have been sharing their perspectives on what inspired them to join the renewable energy industry, as well as their advice to those considering a career in offshore wind.
“I have worked in the energy sector, including renewables, for over 10 years. I have a passion for sustainable energy, technical advances and working with people that have the drive to succeed. To me all three are achieved by working in the offshore wind sector," says Krishna Sidhpura, Global Head of Human Resources.
“In my view there is no better time to be part of the offshore wind sector. You will gain a global perspective as the industry is developing at a rapid rate, creating a need for partnerships and broader collaboration which provides many development opportunities.
“To succeed in the offshore wind sector you need passion and energy. There is much to be done to deliver renewable power, and if you are determined to make a positive impact then Corio Generation is the place you need to be. Our values are ‘determined, positive and impactful’ as these are what we need to make a difference.”
"I graduated from University with a Bachelor's in Electronic and Electrical Engineering more than 30 years ago. I was already then very curious about technologies and problem-solving. The Apollo 13 incident and how the engineers worked to find a solution is something that has always inspired me. Now we have another challenge ahead of us: climate change,” says Sonja Chirico Indrebø, Head of Offshore Floating Wind
"I will never forget the huge grin on my face when I climbed onto my first floating wind turbine at sea. I have found that everyone I have met in this industry, from early design to operations, has the same smile on their face – not just because we create green electricity but because we are solving a wider energy problem: the need to create clean and affordable energy in a sustainable way.
"My advice would be three things: Firstly, believe in yourself – this industry requires all kinds of skills and approaches. You are unique and can contribute with your perspectives in a positive way. Secondly, look for opportunities where you can learn as this is a growing industry you will see that there are ample opportunities for just that. Thirdly, use what you have learned and collaborate with your surroundings to succeed on the tasks you are given. When you do a great job, you will be seen and appreciated which will help boost your confidence and provide an opportunity for you to grow."
“My career within the energy sector spans 23 years, and the last 15 have been dedicated to the wind business. I work across different stages of the wind farm lifecycle, from components manufacturing and development, through to installation and the operation and maintenance of wind farms,” says Rachel Porto, Global Head of WHSES.
“I have lived in different continents, engaging with different cultures, policies and practices. When I look back on my journey, what stands out is the diversity I have had the privilege to come in contact with, particularly in offshore wind. The offshore wind sector creates significant value to communities and countries by creating jobs and protecting the environment, while making a major contribution to a reliable and clean future
“The possibility of working for a global sector with highly skilled and talented teams, while playing a role in helping the planet in the energy transition, are key drivers that should inspire graduates to join the industry.
“The offshore wind industry needs skilled people with passion! It is a fast-changing business with evolving technologies, ways of working, and entry into new markets. While this can involve challenges, with it comes great opportunity. Therefore, I advise those entering the sector to continually invest in yourself and be passionate about the contribution you will make to mitigate climate change.”
“I've been in the renewable energy industry since 2008, witnessing first-hand how the Philippines and other countries promoted clean power. Offshore wind in this region is gaining traction from investors and I'm eager to be part of a pioneering technology,” says Alma Roxas-Aguila, Vice President.
“A career in renewable energy means contributing to the world with a cleaner source of electricity, leaving a legacy for future generations. To succeed, you must be agile in this fast-moving industry. It's a rewarding career, giving back to the people and the environment. Join the flow and be part of the change.”
“From a young age, I was interested in the environment and engaged in campaigning on environmental issues. Having graduated with a degree in Biology, a career in the environmental sector was the obvious choice. With the renewables industry growing rapidly, I was keen to be involved in a new sector and contribute to something that is innovating and developing solutions, creating new and exciting jobs, and helping the environment,” says Rachel Furlong, Senior Development Manager.
“Visiting an offshore wind farm for the first time was amazing. The scale and size of the turbines and substation was so impressive, and it was great to see everything up close. It was very motivating to see everything up and running and generating clean, green energy!
“As one of the leading growth sectors globally, the opportunities for new graduates in the offshore wind industry are enormous. Not just in the traditional disciplines such as engineering but also for biologists, lawyers, marketers, accountants – the list goes on! It’s a dynamic industry that is constantly pushing the boundaries, meaning you will always be learning, developing, collaborating, and innovating. It’s also a global industry so there is the opportunity to work with people around the world and, in many cases, travel the world too.
“My advice for anyone looking to join this renewable sector is to focus on what you enjoy. The sector needs a wide range of perspectives, skills, and experience, so bring what you’re enthusiastic and motivated about. Also, keep asking questions because I guarantee we haven’t got it all worked out.”
“I started my career with a domestic energy company that had a variety of business units, including power generation, E&P, gas chemical, and renewable energy. Here, I could have been at the forefront of the development of a giant gas chemical complex. I then witnessed the global energy transition with the shift from conventional fossil fuels to renewable energy, which is what led me to get involved in wind energy and, subsequently, deeply entrenched in the offshore wind sector. As a mother of two children, this sector aligned with my mindset: to confront climate change for future generations,” says Hyuna Lee, Senior Development Manager.
“The changing landscape presents great career opportunities. If you look inside the industry, there are many skillsets needed along the value chain in addition to engineering and other technical roles. I believe the energy transition can be led by the younger generation, with sustainable development ultimately designed for future generations.
“Be open to sharing your career goals so that the company, leaders, and colleagues can provide the empowerment and support to navigate that path. I’m a firm believer in the strength of communication and collaboration, on the premise of personal dedication to self-improvement. I'm still learning from others and trying hard to be geared toward the challenges to jump in when the opportunity presents itself.”
“I was working as a project manager in Geophysics when I decided to explore opportunities in the offshore wind industry. Thanks to my transferable project management skills as well as my geophysics background, I entered the sector in 2007 and have never looked back. The opportunity to make a difference and fight climate change is what really drew me in,” says Yvonne Zwiers, Head of Technology, WTG and Wind Farm Design.
“A career in offshore wind is meaningful, and with so many opportunities. My advice would be to enter a graduate scheme to get a foot in the door, attend some relevant events, and talk to people who are already working in the industry to get to know more about it. Grab opportunities with both hands and dare to take a risk, then do your very best and use your passion for the business! Try not to be too impatient with your career aspirations, and focus on making the most of the job you have instead of what your next step is going to be. People will notice this and opportunities will arise.”
“I previously worked in transport infrastructure as well as other forms of renewable energy, including onshore wind, solar, waste-to-energy and batteries, before specialising in offshore wind. The scale of offshore wind means the sector plays a huge part in meeting the world’s net zero targets, so working in the industry makes you feel close to the action. It’s extremely rewarding,” says Yusra Siddique, Vice President.
“If you want to make a difference in the world and challenge yourself, then offshore wind is the place to be. It’s a fast-paced, constantly evolving industry, where we are all working towards the shared goal of moving the world to a clean source of energy. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The sector is full of experts who are always willing to share their knowledge and experience.”
“It’s amazing to work in a sector that you believe in, you are inspired by, and you know you are doing the right thing by the planet. Offshore wind is challenging, ever-evolving, fast-paced and exciting and offers exposure to many different disciplines across science, engineering, finance, and logistics. There’s never a dull moment in offshore wind!” says Penny Picket, Development Director, based in Australia.
“My first job was for a specialist marine ecology and dive survey consultancy, working on some great projects, including dive surveys of marine parks in Victoria and EIAs for marine infrastructure projects. When I moved to the UK, I had my first exposure to offshore wind and knew renewable energy was where I wanted to be. It was the days of Round 2 offshore wind projects, and when the Round 3 areas were announced, I was lucky enough to be seconded into a bid team for the Dogger Bank zone. That was 2009 and I haven’t looked back!
“When I worked on my first offshore wind project, it was still considered a new and emerging technology. I had no idea offshore wind would become a global powerhouse and there would be opportunities to work around the world. If the sector interests you, get involved. The opportunities are endless.”
“I chose to study Physics because I found it fascinating. As a graduate, I wanted to have a positive influence on the world, and renewable energy seemed like a good way to achieve that. I chose the offshore sector because it had the technology questions that appealed to me – it uses big tech in challenging conditions, but it can do so at a nationally significant scale,” says Kate Freeman, Senior Specialist, Wind Farm Design.
“The renewable energy sector is full of people who want to achieve something amazing. It is a really positive place to be. Whatever your skills and passions, the offshore wind sector is growing rapidly and there will always be opportunities. Get stuck in!”
“As a local, I’m passionate about the Gippsland region, driven to make a difference and motivated to facilitate and support the emerging sector of offshore wind. At Corio, I'm responsible for establishing and maintaining regional relationships with traditional owners, government, statutory, non-statutory and other key stakeholders. Based in the Gippsland region, I am driving collaboration with local communities, landowners, industry stakeholders and environmental groups to ensure the region’s values, concerns, and opportunities are understood and addressed,” says Kate Foster, Regional Stakeholder Manager.
“Corio’s offshore wind projects align with my personal values, including addressing the climate crisis and engaging in meaningful work that will leave a legacy for future generations. At a regional level, I see great opportunity – the environmental, social, and economic benefits that our projects will deliver will undoubtedly have a significant impact on individuals and communities.
“Offshore wind presents an array of career opportunities that will challenge and excite you. You don’t need to be an engineer or technically minded to work in the sector, all individual talents and skillsets have a role in bringing these projects to life.”
“After gaining experience as a construction lawyer across various sectors, I made the decision to specialise in renewable energy as I knew I would be passionate about it. That decision led me on an incredible journey where I specialised in offshore wind - it has been hugely rewarding and a true privilege,” says Vicky Chiu, Head of Legal, EPC.
“The offshore wind industry is a fascinating, dynamic, and global industry, full of talented people from many specialisms. It is particularly special due to its incredibly strong sense of purpose that will continue to challenge and motivate us for many years to come.
“The advice I would give to young people considering a career in the renewables sector? Ask yourself: do you have a passion for being a part of the energy transition, and can you play a part in that? If yes, that passion should keep you inspired every day and help you develop a successful career in the renewables sector.”
“I joined the renewables industry in 2008, shortly after graduating from university with a degree in Law. I was determined to find a career that would allow me to use my skills and knowledge in a dynamic and impactful way, and offshore wind has not disappointed,” says Ellie Vowles, Head of Project Procurement.
“Witnessing the rapid development of global and local offshore wind supply chains as they respond to increased demand and pioneering technology developments is extremely rewarding. It’s been hugely motivating to see first-hand the significant contribution procurement and contract management make to the long-term success of a project through supply chain partnership and collaboration, in addition.
“You don’t have to be an engineer or technically minded to work in this sector - there are so many exciting opportunities for a multitude of talents. If you want to be challenged, gain a global perspective, and be part of a team to deliver a cleaner, greener future, then offshore wind is for you.”
"I graduated university with a Bachelor's in Engineering and a Master’s in Science. I was fairly determined to find a career that helped to address the climate challenge, but when I started my first role in offshore wind I could never have imagined where it would lead," says Sharn Ward, Senior Vice President.
"Fast forward 20 years and I feel privileged to have spent my time developing some of the first and largest projects in the UK, the first projects in Taiwan and travelling across the globe to develop strategies to deliver projects in markets where offshore wind is a brand new industry.”
"Offshore wind is an enormously diverse industry that combines pioneering technology with best in class processes whether they're related to environment, community, design, engineering construction or operations. There is absolutely room for many more women who are looking for a career that contributes to climate goals.
"From my experience the best advice I can give to those who are interested in offshore wind is to have confidence in yourself, speak up and put yourself forward for things that will challenge you - there's so much still to be achieved."
Interested to learn more about career opportunities at Corio Generation? Find out more by visiting our website: www.coriogeneration.com