| Young professionals
of the industry. In this way, Voith Hydro’s R&D constellations allow young engineers to calibrate their mainly theoretical approaches to real-life situations, under expert guidance. In other words, the input of fresh talent can help the company to look beyond the horizon but, at the same time, the experience of the experts will help determine which ideas look more promising. Admitting that he enjoys the enthusiasm, engagement and pace that young professionals bring to the table, Koutnik also sees it as an opportunity to further his personal development and slow down the ageing process!
Graduate programme In Australia, Hydro Tasmania and the University
of Tasmania (UTAS) have signed a new strategic collaboration agreement focusing on skills and the future workforce, R&D, and community engagement. For more than a century, the two organisations have worked together and Hydro Tasmania’s CEO Rachel Watson is proud of such a long and impactful relationship. “Together, we’re leading environmental research, giving back to the community, and training the scientists and engineers who will continue to secure Tasmania’s position in the renewable energy industry,” she says.” “We are transitioning our engineering research and
teaching to a climate safe engineering focus, which will enable the expansion of knowledge in this field and allow us to make even more of a real difference in this space alongside our Hydro Tasmania partners,” explains UTAS Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Rufus Black. “There is already a steady flow of high-impact research and training that our teams are delivering across hydraulics, pumped hydro storage, reservoirs, energy dispatch systems and integration of other renewable sources for a future highly interconnected electricity market,” he added. Hydro Tasmania has also joined forces with Workskills
Tasmania to offer a unique, hands-on work experience programme for young people across the state. Offering a transition to work for young people who
need extra support, Workskills Tasmania helps to highlight the different career and job opportunities that some might not know about. This recent two-day programme, aimed at young people aged 17-25, offered a valuable behind the scenes look at the world of hydropower and careers at Hydro Tasmania. Participants explored everything from power stations to hydropower projects, while gaining first-hand experience in trades and professional roles within the company. They also received valuable tips on navigating the hiring process, applying for jobs and preparing for interviews, as well as visiting Cluny Power Station and Edgar dam. Feedback on the programmes included observations that there are different pathways to a lot of careers many didn’t know existed in the industry. Hydro Tasmania says programmes like this are essential for building the workforce of the future. With more young people needed to meet future demands, such programmes can help provide them with insights into a range of trades and professional roles, giving them the confidence to try something new. Hydro Tasmania is also proud of its graduate
programme which has been ranked tenth in Australia by the Australian Association of Graduate Employers.
www.waterpowermagazine.com | June 2026 | 19
Kicking off in February each year, the programme sees graduates in a range of subject areas working alongside company experts for two years, gaining hands-on experience, tackling real-world challenges, and helping shape the future of clean energy. In 2026, Hydro Tasmania welcomed 17 new graduates into electrical, mechanical and civil engineering roles as well as an ‘analyst’ stream drawing from disciplines including environment, information technology, human resources and finance. Over the programme, graduates complete a number of rotations, gaining exposure to different parts of the business while discovering where their strengths and interests align.
Participants on the graduate programme have
spoken of its variety, purpose and impact, whilst those keen to apply are advised to approach it with an open mind, a willingness to learn and a positive attitude. Previous participants have also noted they were surprised by the breadth of opportunity available to them, and even “blown away” by the scale and complexity of Hydro Tasmania’s operations.
References
https://thesourcemagazine.org/young-water- professionals-the-energy-and-future-of-iwa/
www.voith.com/corp-en/news-room/stories/the-future-
of-collaborative-development.html#section-5
www.hydro.com.au/education
Below: Pairing experience with new talent can be a strategy for success
Above: For many applicants to Hydro Tasmania’s graduate programme, the appeal is also about living and working in a special and spectacular place. Around half of 2026’s intake have relocated and were drawn, Hydro Tasmania says, by the opportunity to build a meaningful career while enjoying the state’s natural beauty, attractive lifestyle, and outdoor activities
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