Andrea is a New Energy Manager and has worked for Woodside Energy for nearly 8 years
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love the ability to create something new that’s meaningful for our planet. The energy transition is upon us and I’m very proud to be part of leading Woodside into this new energy market.
Describe your career path to your current job?
I started my career working in employee development at Boeing in the US. I had a number of roles at Boeing before I started working for Worley Parsons doing business development in new energy. In 2013, I was approached by Woodside and moved to Perth for what was supposed to be three years. Nearly eight years later I am still working for Woodside in Australia, and have had a myriad of roles, ending up in Canberra leading Woodside’s New Energy strategy for the European market. Definitely not a traditional career path, but the variety has kept me excited and striving for more.
What attracted you to a career in mining & resources?
I realised early in my career that the resources sector had a lot of potential to make a difference. Companies like Woodside have the expertise and balance sheet to provide the world energy and uncover new technologies that will enable transition to cleaner fuels. The world relies on energy, so we’re helping our planet maintain its standard of living while being more sustainable. That’s exciting!
How do you juggle working in resources with family life?
The best advice I ever received was: You can have it all; just not all at the same time. I have to remind myself that there’s only 100% of me, so I have to choose how I divide that up. Sometimes my family gets more; sometimes work gets more, and that’s okay. Coming to terms with this realisation has made all the difference.
What do you think of the general perception that mining and resources is a male-dominated sector?
Generally speaking, it’s a fairly accurate perception, but companies like Woodside are taking great strides to make that a historical perception. We have to be intentional with our strides to reach equality, and having the conversation is a good start.
What advice would you give to other women considering a career in the sector?
Absolutely consider a career in the sector, because there’s great potential to make a difference. It can be very rewarding, but also very challenging. Speak to someone who’s in the sector to get a better feel for what you are getting into. Most people are happy to have career conversations and provide their firsthand experience. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other women and ask for a chat. Buying someone a coffee can go a long way.
What’s the biggest thing you would like other women to know about working in mining and resources?
Gender equality can only be reached if more women start careers in the sector. Women are part of the solution, but you have to dive in headfirst to make a difference. Talk to girls and women about a career in mining and resources, encouraging them to study STEM in schools. It’s not something I had exposure to early in school, but I can help make a difference now.
What initiatives/policies have your employer put in place to encourage more women to be involved in the sector?
Woodside is being progressive in our inclusion and diversity strategy, as well as our flexible working policies. We also have community groups that provide an outlet for women to come together and share knowledge about issues they’re facing. We’ve made great progress in the last couple of years that really benefit working parents, not just women. Removing those barriers to entry can really progress the agenda when trying to increase diversity in the workplace, especially with women.
