How are you finding life as CEO of Master Electricians NZ?

 I’m loving working with passionate people who are committed to advancement of this industry, which in many ways is at the centre of the energy transition.  I’ve found that the people around me share many of the same values – a desire to support members in a proactive way and grow the industry, and a willingness to take risks and innovate so that electrical contractors are future-ready.

 What are the challenges in this role?

 The electrical industry is undergoing rapid change – from technological innovation and sustainability imperatives to regulatory shifts and evolving consumer demands. In this dynamic environment I see every challenge as an opportunity. There are opportunities to enable technology adoption at a faster rate. There are opportunities that flow from convergence of industries and infrastructure in terms of dynamic careers for electrical contractors and diversified business opportunities.

 We need to lean into regulatory reform and having the funding needed to keep up with rapid changes in standards – both in terms of product and practices.

 Another step up is that the industry is currently served by multiple ministers and parts of government which often means we never have the ability to communicate about the impact across the value chain!

 Do your members have issues recruiting the right staff?

Yes and no. We have got a workforce skill shortage, and the economic situation does mean we don’t recruit and train enough. There is also the need and desire to innovate and adopt new technologies – the electrification of the NZ economy relies on individuals and businesses who can pick up micro skills faster than ever before and in ways that meet their needs in terms of experiential learning.

 That is why we are investing in a new training entity – Trade Master. It’s a one-stop CPD shop that will partner with wholesalers, suppliers and other industry leaders to promote and support the adoption of new products and services that are innovative and emerging. There is a desire to recruit individuals who have the right mix of aligned values, soft skills, and aspirations to grow.

 Being a team player with an eagerness to learn and take risks, and learn quickly on the job, are all critical traits at a time when the half-life of skills is less than 18 months.

 Keeping members up to date with technology, especially in training – is this an issue?

 Emerging technologies will transform electrical system design, installation, and management. The electrical industry needs to embrace cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to meet the evolving needs of clients and address global challenges.

 Rapid technological change is the reason the half-life of skills is now estimated to be 18 months or less, so our workforce must quickly master new technologies.  We need to upskill current electricians and train new entrants in EV technology, energy storage, and smart grid management. Flexible training options are needed to quickly equip the workforce with new skills.

 The answer lies in a multifaceted approach by the electrical industry, involving strategic partnerships, continuous education and training, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

 How do you use your business experience to advocate for members?

 My background spans academia, the public sector, and the business world. I’ve had the opportunity to hone skills across policy, strategy, training, communication and management, and this is proving to be a good value proposition for successful advocacy.

 Favourite quote?

Feel the fear and do it anyway!

 Last book read?

 Range by David Epstein

 What do you draw inspiration from?

In terms of personal goals and dreams, setting a goal and working toward achieving it can be a great source of inspiration. The process of overcoming obstacles and seeing progress really fuels my drive to keep pushing forward.

Learning something new and gaining a deeper understanding of something new ignites curiosity and inspires me to try new things.