Why did you join Transpower?
I joined Transpower because I could see there was an alignment between what I’m interested in and the work that Transpower does. I’m naturally curious, and the environment here provides continuous learning and collaboration with colleagues who each have different ideas and different strengths to offer. The electricity industry has inherent challenges and complexities which provide us all with constant opportunities for growth!
What about your role makes you proud?
I find deep satisfaction in contributing to the design of Aotearoa New Zealand’s transmission grid. It’s critical national infrastructure. I’m building on something that has been developed and maintained by generations of engineers and planners. I’m motivated by the responsibility and opportunity involved in helping to decarbonise the economy and move the nation forward to a more electrified, lower emissions future.
What is your favourite part of your job?
Working in challenging situations is one of my favourite parts of my job because they are an opportunity for my team and I to devise creative solutions and rapidly grow our skillsets. Responding to new challenges where teamwork and problem-solving come together to produce an outcome always tests my skills and creativity, and that sort of tension is what I enjoy most!
Chen leads the team which explores how the evolution of the power system will impact the national grid. It’s a complex picture which requires critical analysis and creative thinking to identify solutions that ensure safe, secure and affordable power can flow to where New Zealanders need it.
Read more on our website: Planning for the future | Transpower