James Larche on a career in the evolving energy industry
Since joining the business in 2015, Project Manager James Larche has experienced first-hand CS Energy’s transformation to a diversified energy business.
James is currently seconded to the Future Energy team and works on the renewable hydrogen and battery projects the business is developing at its Kogan Energy Hub on the Western Downs.
“This is a natural progression from my earlier experience managing sustaining capital projects at Kogan Creek Power Station, and in prior roles in the oil and gas industry”, James says.
James remembers the replacement of the horizontal reheater and boiler nose during the overhaul at the Kogan Creek Power Station in 2019 as a standout project during his time at CS Energy.
“My favourite part of any project is taking it from concept through to operation. While the project wasn’t without its challenges, we achieved this by working with stakeholders and sharing this sense of achievement once we’d successfully delivered.”
When talking about the experiences and opportunities a career in the energy industry can offer, James describes his time working with the Chinchilla BEST (Bringing Employees and Students Together) program. This initiative is supported by the Western Downs Regional Council, Chinchilla Chamber of Commerce, local industry and schools. It teaches students essential soft skills, such as the importance of presentation and preparedness, problem-solving and communication, that will help them transition from school and university into the workforce.
“We conducted some great activities such as mock job interviews, careers fairs and site tours so the students could get a taste of what’s to come when they join an energy business. The students often had a pre-conceived idea of what a career in energy looked like. It was only after speaking with them and showing them what’s on offer and what’s possible, that they could start picturing a role not only at CS Energy but also in the wider energy industry.”
James says that for those looking for a change or to work in energy for the first time is to “do your research” so you can understand the varied opportunities on offer. And finally, to broaden your networks within the energy sector to learn about different people’s experience, skills and insights.
Learn more about opportunities and careers at CS Energy: https://www.csenergy.com.au/careers/working-at-cs-energy
