The women powering Australia's first Rez

Behind the scenes of Australia’s first Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) is a group of women helping to power the state’s future, one trailblazer at a time.

As transmission towers rise across the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone and construction gathers pace, the workforce behind the project is as diverse as it is skilled. From engineering and environmental advisory roles through to rigging and heavy machinery operation, women are playing a vital role in shaping the future of renewable energy in regional New South Wales.

Creating Opportunities in Regional Communities

The Central-West Orana REZ transmission project is creating career opportunities for women across a wide range of industries and skill levels.

For Emily Scanlon, the move from New Jersey to the Central West four years ago led to a career that perfectly combines her passions. Now based in Mudgee, Emily works as a Senior Environmental Advisor on the project at Merotherie, helping translate environmental policy into practical outcomes on the ground.

"I've always cared deeply about the environment and I love working with people," Emily says. "Renewable energy construction brings those passions together in a collaborative setting where the work feels meaningful."

For Emily, the work is about more than infrastructure.

"I want younger generations to inherit a healthy environment supported by sustainable energy systems."

Building the Future

A little further west at Elong Elong, Senior Project Engineer Sophie Ohlsson thrives on the complexity and challenge of large-scale construction projects.

Her role involves coordinating teams, solving real-time engineering challenges and ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently and on budget.

"No two days are the same and there's something incredibly satisfying about working through a complex challenge as a team and watching a project take shape in front of you," Sophie says.

When asked what advice she would give to women considering a career in construction, her answer is simple:

"Go for it. The industry is changing and there is absolutely a place for you here. Bring your perspective, ask questions and don't be afraid to take up space."

Reaching New Heights

Transmission tower riggers Maggie Turner and Freda Danielson are among the women helping build the network that will support the region's renewable energy future.

Working at heights of up to 70 metres, the pair are responsible for assembling and installing transmission towers across the project.

"It's really fun, like playing with a giant Lego set," Maggie says.

For Freda, it's not just the work itself that stands out, but the supportive team environment.

"We get taught a lot by the more experienced riggers and we never feel out of place," she says.

Their supervisor, Matias Toneatti, agrees.

"They're great assets to the team and always eager to learn. The rest of the crew are learning a lot from them too."

Regional Careers, Regional Impact

The project is also creating opportunities for people from a variety of professional backgrounds.

Brittany Horne, who previously worked in banking administration for a seat in the cab of one of the project's haul trucks, says the transition has been rewarding.

The project has welcomed workers from across sectors including healthcare, hospitality and administration, proving that transferable skills and a willingness to learn can open doors to new careers in construction and renewable energy.

For many women involved, the opportunity extends beyond career growth. It’s about helping shape the future of regional communities while contributing to Australia’s clean energy transition.

A Milestone for the Region

The project recently reached a significant milestone with the completion of its first transmission tower near Merotherie.

Weighing 55 tonnes and constructed using more than 2,800 steel components and over 6,000 bolts, the tower represents the beginning of the transmission network that will connect renewable energy projects across the region and deliver secure, reliable power to homes and businesses.

As construction continues, the women helping drive this project forward are demonstrating that the future of renewable energy is not only about infrastructure and innovation, but also about creating opportunities, breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation.

For more information about the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone and community initiatives, visit the ACEREZ website.