International Women’s Day series: Skye Coulston, Electrical Apprentice

Can you share a little about your career journey and what first sparked your interest in this industry? 

My career journey has been filled with a few different themes. Throughout my years, I’ve done a bit of waitressing, a while in the mechanical field and a few years in retail, until I found Enerven and what I believe is my lifelong career. My interest has always been found in the ‘male dominated industries’. I’ve always pushed myself to do things I don’t feel confident with and working with electricity was without a doubt one of them.

Was there a moment in your career where you realised you were leading by example, whether for yourself or for other women?

Whether it comes from being a manager of a retail store or a 2^nd year Major Projects Apprentice within Enerven, there are things that show the importance of showing up for myself and other women.  An important moment for me so far was being able to go with a few other women from our industry to speak with/to some school aged girls that are still finding their direction in life. These events have always been supported by the company and is a great team building experience that can be had with other women you may not have met before. These things show the importance of having women in the field to show others we can do it!

This year’s International Women’s Day theme focuses on promising that every woman or girl, should be heard and free to shape their own lives. What does that mean to you in our industry?

This means a lot to me; every woman should feel the security of feeling able to create their own space and to understand how important they are. In this industry, you have the freedom to be who you are and the tools to help you shape your life in the best way possible. It is something I am so happy to be a part of, creating for the next generation or intake of employees.

Have there been times when you’ve had to back yourself? What gave you the confidence to do so?

There have been many times I have had to back myself throughout life and/or work experiences. My mentors in life, whether they have been schoolteachers, social workers or employers, have shown me the importance of backing yourself. Along with the many mistakes and learning experiences, they have been there to push me to ensure if anyone has got my back, it’s me.

What makes a workplace feel genuinely inclusive to you? How does this relate to Enerven?

Being treated as an equal. As simple as that may seem, it can be skipped over by some. Enerven is amazing at this, whether it’s from site to sea, you are met with people that include, teach, observe, and make you feel like you belong in the team.

How does an inclusive workplace improve performance and safety?

I believe an inclusive workplace of gender, race, culture etc. can improve safety and performance; a different perspective or voice may raise other concerns or queries that may have been previously looked over.

Who or what has helped you grow the most in your career?

My leadership and supervisors have been the biggest push in my growth journey at Enerven. Whether it be from the amazing team at my depot including Ralph Ciccarello and Mick Dempster, Paul Holohan supporting and teaching me on site, everyone has been amazing, supportive and have helped me grow during my journey.

What would you say to young women considering a career in this field?

Don’t hesitate! If this is where you want to be, this is where you belong. This industry is not somewhere I would’ve seen myself a few years ago, but it is now the place I see myself staying.  The confidence, knowledge and friendships you’ll make are lifelong.

What are you most proud of professionally or personally?

Professionally, it would be that I’m in this field as a 2^nd year Major Projects Apprentice with Enerven. Working for such an amazing company and having the opportunities I wouldn’t have had normally. Personally, it would be that I am currently the Female Throwing Stick Champion in Australia, which has opened up the opportunity to head to Queensland this year to represent my family and culture.

What does leadership look like to you?

Leadership is about being a leader and not a ‘boss’. For me, it’s the people that lead by example. They show resilience, respect and wisdom, they share their knowledge and experience and guide you to the best path possible. They do this to ensure you receive the best outcome for yourself and the team you’re working with/project you’re working on.

On International Women’s Day, what message would you like to share with women across our business?

You’re all so amazing and you have paved the way for women like me to find my place and for that, I thank you all!