Source: BusinessNZ
New Zealand’s brightest young energy professionals are focused on raising their collective voice and bringing the energy sector closer together.
After a decade of fostering connection and careers within the energy sector, the Young Energy Professionals Network (YEPN) welcomes two new co-Chairs, Beca’s Industrial Energy Lead Andrew Wallace and Aurecon’s Lead Energy Consultant Danielle Manners.
Manners says she wants the professionals she represents to feel heard within the sector.
“Having ‘young’ in the title shouldn’t detract from the real value we bring to industry. Our members have proven themselves to be a switched-on bunch, who are eager to grow and collaborate together.
“There is so much enthusiasm, potential and fresh thinking that we can harness to really transform the energy sector.”
Her fellow Chairperson Wallace says he’s keen to further elevate the YEPN as a collaborative leader within the energy sector.
“The challenges and opportunities in front of us, including the hard conversations around energy, are best tackled together. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve as we engage with those currently in the network and those who will join us along the way.”
In a joint statement, outgoing co-Chairs Esther Evening and Elliott Powell say the network has grown significantly over their three years at the helm.
“It has been especially rewarding to see YEPN play a role in shaping career pathways, supporting high school and university engagement, and encouraging young people to consider a future in energy.
“The strength of the network today reflects the passion and commitment of the volunteers who have helped make it what it is, and we are proud to have been part of that journey.”
The YEPN was established by the BusinessNZ Energy Council (BEC) in 2015. Executive Director Tina Schirr says leading the YEPN is a strong commitment to the energy sector, and it’s incredible to see new Chairs eager to step up.
“Both Andrew and Danielle are welcome additions to the legacy of the YEPN, bringing fresh insights, new direction, and the kind of leadership needed to tackle energy issues of today.
“BEC thanks Esther and Elliott for their contributions and wishes a warm welcome to Danielle and Andrew. Ten years on, we are thrilled with the YEPN initiative and excited to see what’s next for this innovative group.”
– The YEPN is a network designed to upskill its members through knowledge sharing and collaboration within the energy sector
– BEC is New Zealand’s only member organisation of the World Energy Council
