Gippsland’s growing women in water workforce

Gippsland Water’s 2024/25 summer internship program has produced the highest rate of women participants in five years.  

Six of the 12 students in this year’s program were women, including three of the eight students who worked in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) roles across the organisation. 

Managing director Sarah Cumming said it was a sign that initiatives like International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11) were raising the profile of STEM careers and highlighting pathways in STEM focused industries, like the water sector.  

“This year we had three talented young women take on STEM roles in our environment and asset management teams as part of our internship program, along with a further three placed in other departments,” Ms Cumming said. 

“You don’t need to be a scientist or engineer to work in the water sector, although there are many of those opportunities available.  

Ms Cumming, a former litigation lawyer, said her own career trajectory in the water industry had been deeply rewarding.  

“I love working in an industry that has far reaching impacts and can make a real difference in our community while providing an essential service.” 

Ms Cumming said the organisation hoped to inspire the next generation of female leaders in STEM to explore the water industry as their next major career step by providing new and rewarding opportunities.  

“According to 2023 Australian Government data, women currently make up 37 per cent of enrolments in university STEM courses, but only 15 per cent of STEM-qualified jobs are held by women. This something we’re passionate about changing,” Ms Cumming said.  

“Our most recent cohort of students has given us confidence we’re on the right path. 

“Employing more women in STEM is not just a goal; it’s necessary to expand talent pools and bring in fresh perspectives.” 

Gippsland Water’s annual Summer Internship program offers university students the opportunity to gain hands on experience in the water sector with three months of paid work. 

Applications open mid-year at www.gippswater.com.au/careers