It’s easy to assume that without a background in a specific industry, you’ll struggle to get a foot in the door and have to start from scratch.
What’s closer to the truth is that many industries are keen to hear from professionals from a range of backgrounds, and the energy sector is no exception! With plenty of opportunities on offer, it’s worth taking some time to reflect on your transferable skills and consider where you might find career alignment.
But you don’t have to take our word for it: Gemma Bailey, General Manager of Data Science & Analytics at Alinta Energy, is a technology leader and newcomer to the industry. She shares how her impressive background in diverse sectors helped her make the transition:
“I’ve only been in this role for eight months, so I’m still relatively new to the sector. I grew my career in a diverse range of industries, including natural resource management, retail, supply chain, logistics and digital. What stood out to me about Alinta was the company’s openness to exploring my skill set and valuing my transferable and soft skills, which gave me the confidence to make the move.”
Keen to follow Gemma’s lead? Below, she shares her top tips to help others switch to an energy career (and why there’s no better time to do it!)
Choose a company that invests in potential
Having worked in transportation and logistics for several years, Gemma felt ready for a new challenge. When she came across an opportunity with Alinta Energy, she was motivated by the chance to work in a sector focused on building a more sustainable future.
“Working in the energy sector means being part of the biggest technological transition of our generation! I’m inspired to do work with the potential to shape the future of how we live and work.”
Her transferable skills made her an ideal match. Additionally, it was an exciting opportunity to expand her capabilities.
“I love the breadth of my role. My team provides services to trading, power generation, operations, retail, and corporate solutions. It’s very satisfying to learn from such a large portfolio, using different types of data-centric technologies that help them drive value.”
If you’re interested in exploring opportunities in the industry, she says, get involved! Since the energy transition is complex and continually evolving, it presents an ideal environment for learning and development.
“Personally, I thrive in fast-paced, changing environments. If you want to grow and supercharge your skills, it’s great to work in a dynamic environment.”
Discover career development initiatives at Alinta Energy, including training, coaching, mentorship, and more.
Explore their benefits and policies and discover current job openings.
Surround yourself with inspiring and inclusive leadership
When you’re making a career pivot, the leaders you work with can make all the difference, shaping not just your role but your knowledge, confidence, and direction:
“I read the profiles of the executive team as I grew into my new role in energy. They all have extensive experience in the industry, and I find that motivating. I love being part of a smart, dynamic leadership team at the top of their game, because my teams and I benefit from that collective experience. I feel like I’m surrounded by the best of the best.”
While energy has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated sector, Gemma says her experience has challenged that perception, especially at Alinta Energy, where gender equity is a clear priority.
“Gender equity recognises that different people may need other support or resources to achieve the same outcomes. Supporting all people in bringing their skills and ideas to the workplace, in a way that meets them where they are, removes the friction of assuming everyone operates in the same way. It’s about creating conditions where everyone can thrive and participate fully in the workplace, regardless of their gender identity.”
Having worked in a wide range of industries, she recognises that male-dominated industries present distinct challenges.
“While I’m still new to the energy industry, I haven’t found it to be male-dominated at all. Reflecting on my early career experiences compared to now, women’s representation has most certainly improved and is moving in a positive direction.”
Take your time, do your research and be selective
Interested in exploring a career in the energy industry? Gemma’s advice is simple but powerful:
“Research prospective companies. Research the culture. Does it sound like the kind of place you think you would thrive? If yes, why not take a chance!”
And remember, not all companies are created equal — even within the same industry. Work environments, leadership styles, support systems, and flexibility can vary widely from one employer to the next. Taking the time to explore these differences can make a huge impact on your long-term satisfaction and success.
A good starting point? Look beyond the job title. Dive into a company’s values, policies, and track record on diversity and inclusion. Platforms like WORK180 offer transparent insight into what companies like Alinta Energy provide — from parental leave and flexibility, to leadership support and career development pathways.
Gemma also reminds us that energy careers aren’t limited to hi-vis and steel caps:
“Modern enterprises, like Alinta Energy, have sophisticated systems, landscapes, and corporate services teams that don’t spend a great amount of time on the ground. There are so many opportunities in many areas.”
With the right mindset and the right environment, a career change can open doors you never imagined:
“Follow opportunities that come your way, even those that seem unlikely. You never know where you’ll end up. Personally, my younger self would be incredulous to see where I am today!”
