A flexible approach helps kick-start a new career

Lucy Radosevic
Trainee Project Manager

Career snapshot

I originally thought I’d become a physiotherapist but life took me in a different direction! I studied a Bachelor of Arts and Science at university, but it was hard to find graduate roles in science at the time. I went into banking and decided it wasn’t right for me, then I went travelling, and when I came home to Australia in 2018 I started working for Zinfra.

I started as a contractor initially in the customer service team handling customer queries, then spent some time in the claims area supporting the team looking at overhead powerline maintenance work. At the time, the COVID-19 pandemic presented some challenges to grow further in that role, and then as luck would have it, the opportunity to apply for the Project Manager traineeship presented itself. I spoke to my manager who was supportive and I went for it.

I was very happy when I landed the role and I commenced the two-year traineeship program at the start of 2021.

Working at Zinfra

I feel really supported as a trainee at Zinfra.

Since becoming a trainee and going on different rotations across the business and out into the field, I’ve really had the chance to learn about the company and the industry. I’m getting practical, hands-on experience as well as office-based experience, giving me the full picture of what the business is about, as well as a strong understanding of what’s involved in the field team and the challenges they might face.

When I go out to site and to various depots, I really enjoy the lively and welcoming vibe. People across the business have strong relationships, which I think encourages collaboration and working better together. I’ve gotten to know people easily to the point that I know their kids names; it feels like a big, supportive family.

Getting to know people is my favourite part of working at Zinfra. We all have a piece of the puzzle and a role to play. Through meetings and networking I feel fully embedded in the business and empowered to support others via my work as a Trainee Project Manager.

Diversity and inclusion

I can see the company is trying to get better at diversity and inclusion and there is transparency and focus on this. There’s a real push to look for people from different backgrounds and with different experiences and there is a lot more work to do in this space but also a lot of effort that is put in, which is great to see.

A big selling point is the flexibility. Nine to five doesn’t work for everyone and it’s nice to see that the company really respects responsibilities outside of work and allows us to work hours that suit our individual circumstances.

Career opportunities

My experience as a traineeship has been very positive. The industry is such a good industry to be in. It’s an essential service and a safe place to work with competitive salaries – all important for young people considering an apprenticeship or traineeship!

Before working for Zinfra, I didn’t know this industry existed. I’d never thought about who worked on power poles and kept the lights and gas running. It’s unreal how much I’ve learnt and it’s genuinely a great place to work.

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands upon which we operate and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters, and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Pictured: Artwork by Aboriginal artist Chern’ee Sutton from Mount Isa for our Group’s Reconciliation Action Plan.