Every year we welcome engineering students from local universities into the CS Energy summer undergraduate program.
Rani Stephensen was one of the successful candidates. Rani is studying a double degree in electrical engineering and business management and is interested in renewable energy and the innovations emerging in response to changing energy demands and community expectations.
We asked Rani some questions about her time in CS Energy’s summer undergraduate program and here’s what she said.
What most interested you about the CS Energy vacation program?
I have always had a keen interest in energy and the sector more broadly. With the current transition to renewables, I think energy is one of the most interesting fields to work in. It’s such an exciting time to see the new innovations and technologies being developed to respond to changing energy demands worldwide.
I embraced the opportunity to gain industry knowledge at CS Energy and work with such a skilled, knowledgeable team.
What have been some of the highlights since starting the program?
A key highlight was visiting Sulzer to see the electric feed pump motor testing. During our visit we were given a tour of the facilities and shown how they manufacture their motors.
In February we also visited Kogan Creek Power Station for a site tour. This was invaluable and really helped solidify everything I had worked on during the program.
I have also loved working with the team at CS Energy. I got to work with experts across a variety of fields who were all keen to help me in any way possible. I have been introduced to so many different ideas and experiences which I never would have seen otherwise.
How did you hear about the program?
I was fortunate enough to have the QUT Leaning Potential Fund Scholarship with CS Energy in 2019. This meant I had a strong connection with the company when the opportunity arose.
What inspired you to choose a career in engineering?
I’ve always had an interest in maths and look for any opportunity to learn and develop new skills. I also knew I liked being hands on and wanted to pursue a career that complemented this.
It wasn’t until I participated in my local university’s engineering programs in high school that I discovered my love for engineering and knew I had found my true passion.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years’, I will have successfully completed my double degree in electrical engineering and business management.
I want to be working in industry on a range of projects, progressing my career and building on everything I learnt at university and my undergraduate placements.