Fast-tracking graduate engineers to solve one of the biggest challenges in renewable energy
Grid connection engineers play a critical role in ensuring renewable projects integrate with the electricity network, but they’re in short supply and require specialist knowledge.
The Grid Connection Engineer Graduate Program aims to address these challenges by recruiting top electrical engineering graduates and fast-tracking their experience across the industry. By undertaking multiple placements with developers, equipment manufacturers, transmission network service providers, and the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), graduates stand to gain invaluable experience quickly and help improve grid connection processes.
What is a grid connection engineer?
Becoming a grid connection engineer offers an exciting, innovative career pathway, with practitioners at the heart of the energy transition.
Grid connection engineers design and manage the integration of renewable energy systems to the grid, including solar, wind and other energy sources. Usually holding degrees in electrical or mechatronics engineering, they are required to be proficient in the use of dynamic medium to long-term simulation models for complex systems. Ensuring compliance with technical standards and regulations, they have excellent knowledge of the National Electricity Market, and compliance requirements of AEMO and the network providers.
CURRENT GRADUATES
Read Jessie's story
“This program is a unique and exciting opportunity - it compresses years of experience into a much shorter time frame.”
CURRENT GRADUATES
Read Michael's story
“The generosity of the senior engineers at GE Vernova to help me learn and progress has been my highlight of the program so far.”
Host organisations
Meet the graduates of the 2025-2026 program
Setayesh Alizadeh
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
I applied to this program because I’ve heard that the CEC supports and respects women in STEM. I hope to receive thorough training and that the hosts will provide enough work in each sector so that by the end of my rotations, I will be confident in choosing the sector I want to continue in.
Michael Donkers
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
I'm incredibly fortunate to be a part of the pilot graduate program. Being part of this program allows me to build an amazing portfolio of experience whilst working towards a common goal that I'm incredibly passionate about; a sustainable and green energy future for Australia.
Charlie Guo
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
I want to be an electrical engineer and use my knowledge and skills to get more impact on climate change and build more renewable energy projects.
Brendan Lee
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
Throughout my time at university, the topic of renewable energy and sustainability has grown exponentially. These conversations motivated me to apply for this program, where I am able to contribute to the energy transition, and learn from industry leaders to better understand the different perspectives within this crucial transition.
Grace Margaretha
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
It’s certainly hard to pass up this rare opportunity. The chance to be looking at the grid as a whole, from generation to distribution, and be involved in diverse renewable projects nationwide excites me the most.
Imasha Guruge
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
I am excited to contribute to Australia’s clean energy transition by deepening my expertise in grid connection and renewable technologies, while gaining valuable experience that will allow me to make a meaningful impact in the sector.
Jacques Serfontein
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
I'm hoping to gain a holistic understanding of the grid connection process and energy industry as a whole, so I can help tackle the many challenges involved from different perspectives.
Jessie Wang
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
I look forward to developing a well-rounded understanding of grid connection regulators, processes, and the energy market from different perspectives, and gaining insight into the challenges and innovation driving Australia’s energy transition.
Lili Xu
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
I’m super excited to begin my journey as a grid connection engineer in a program that enables me to gain multiple perspectives of the industry, while allowing me to make a positive contribution to our world.
Dave Lee
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
I applied to the program because I am concerned about climate change and the energy sector is the linchpin for decarbonisation efforts. I'm doing the grid connection program to do what I can to help accelerate our transition to 82% renewables.
James Gazzard
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
What an exciting industry to be coming into! Contributing to a sustainable future would be a dream job for any graduate.
Naduni Arachchillage
Grid Connection Engineer Graduate
I’m proud to be part of the graduate program, where I’ll gain hands-on experience through four rotations across different companies. This journey will shape me into a well-rounded Grid Connection Engineer, contributing to Australia’s clean energy future. Looking forward to learning, growing, and making an impact!