Students Explore Future Careers at Girls with Hi-Vis

A small group of our students recently had the opportunity to attend the Girls with Hi-Vis event hosted by Counties Energy and organised Connexis, where they gained a unique, hands-on insight into careers within New Zealand's energy and infrastructure industries.

The day began with an introduction to Counties Energy and an overview of the important role the organisation plays in keeping communities connected. Students also heard from women working in a variety of roles across the business, who shared their career journeys, experiences and advice. Their stories highlighted the many different pathways into the industry and encouraged students to consider careers they may not have previously thought about.

The highlight of the day was taking part in a range of interactive activities that gave students a taste of what working in the industry could involve. They tested their skills in an excavator, experienced an elevated work platform (bucket truck), and toured the Counties Energy site to learn more about the equipment, technology and people that keep the electricity network running safely and efficiently.

The event provided a fantastic opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zones, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of the wide range of career opportunities available in the trades and energy sectors. 

We also caught up with former student Moeata Ngataki who works at Counties Energy on her university breaks.  

“It was an awesome experience learning how the over power lines are fixed using a bucket truck” - Nia 

“It was so much fun learning how to work the digger.” - Pricilla 

Cherie Roberts 
Gateway Co-ordinator