A seasoned professional on a mission towards a cleaner, more efficient energy future
From an early fascination with electricity to leading a cutting-edge energy program, David’s career has always been about finding a better way. As the General Manager of Operational Engineering, David now leads a team working on the Next Generation Network Operations (NGNO) program - an ambitious program that will transform how Powerlink manages the state’s energy grid. Read on to discover how David is building a legacy that will last for generations to come.
A foundation for the future
Over his 20-plus years at Powerlink, David has played a pivotal role in shaping Queensland’s energy landscape. As General Manager of Operational Engineering, he’s now leading efforts on the Next Generation Network Operations (NGNO) program - an ambitious, once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernise Powerlink’s energy management system (EMS).
“It is essential for Transmission Network Service Providers, such as Powerlink, to have an Energy Management System,” says David. “The NGNO program is about replacing our current EMS, which has served us well but is becoming obsolete.”
Powerlink’s current EMS has been in place for decades and has been a vital tool for managing the state's energy grid. However, as Queensland moves toward a renewable energy future - with solar farms, wind farms and battery storage becoming more prevalent - it’s vital our systems keep up with these evolving technologies.
“The replacement energy management system will help us handle the growing number of renewable energy sources and make sure we’re ready for the future,” says David.
David sees the NGNO program as an incredible opportunity for anyone looking to build a career in energy. The work being done now will have a lasting impact not just on Powerlink, but on the entire state’s energy infrastructure. He believes it’s a project that will allow people to become subject matter experts in a critical, cutting-edge system.
“Projects like this don’t come around often. It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity. If you’re someone who’s excited about new technology and making a difference, this is your chance. By joining now, you could set yourself up as an expert in this field for the rest of your career.”
A lifelong passion
David has always understood the importance of seizing opportunities. Growing up near a railway siding near Bajool, Rockhampton, his fascination with electricity began long before he officially joined the workforce. He recalls growing up in a household without reliable electricity - an experience that would spark his desire to solve problems from a young age.
“As a kid we used to have blackouts all the time. So, Dad would have to get out the kerosene lamps and the candles. I remember thinking, ‘There’s got to be a better way. Maybe I can do something about that.’”
David’s drive to find a “better way” took him down a path to becoming an electrical fitter mechanic. After completing an apprenticeship within the Electricity Supply Industry in 1994, he quickly transitioned through various roles in the power sector, gaining experience in substation operations and field engineering.
A turning point in David’s career came in the late 1990s when a chance encounter with Powerlink opened up a new world of possibilities.
“I was working in Gladstone as a Substation Operations Technician, and I remember we had a transformer issue, so we called Powerlink. They flew a team in and a container turned up with all these tools and procedures. That professionalism, dedication and support really impressed me, and I knew right then and there that I wanted to be part of that team.”
A remarkable career
Since joining Powerlink in 2000, David has held a variety of roles across different disciplines, each one broadening his skills and expertise. His career has been shaped by several strategic moves, including lateral steps to gain critical skills - decisions that have helped him grow into the leader he is today.
“I took a side step to a Secondary Systems Manager role to fill a knowledge gap, and that decision really set me on a different path,” says David. “I tell people all the time, you don’t start your apprenticeship knowing you’re going to be a General Manager. You just need to understand what motivates you and what your goals are. Powerlink will help you get there.”
Now, as the General Manager of Operational Engineering, David oversees three key areas: asset performance, field engineering support, and physical security. His team is at the forefront of ensuring Powerlink’s assets remain reliable and efficient throughout their lifecycle.
Looking ahead, David is particularly enthusiastic about the NGNO program and the possibilities that data science and machine learning bring to operational engineering. His team is already exploring new methods for asset maintenance, including the use of drones and robotics.
But the real secret to David’s career? It's the relationships he’s built over the years with experienced, down-to-earth people he’s proud to work with day in, day out.
“What’s kept me at Powerlink for all these years? I feel like I’ve been able to make a difference. I just love the environment. But most of all, it’s the people, hands down. It’s the team that really makes it all worthwhile.”