Working on the largest power station in the Top End, Elisha Wright has found her groove working as a fitter and machinist.
Spending her days working on an island at the top of Australia, Elisha Wright is a freshly qualified fitter who wears many different hats.
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Employed by the Territory Generation at the Channel Island Power Station, Elisha credits the industry for an increase in her confidence and opportunity.
“I am passionate about my job and enjoy all aspects of the work I do,” Elisha said.
“I particularly like working on the turbines. Getting to know how they work, and how everything is crucial to their operation has been fascinating for me”
With a love of diesel mechanics, Elisha has been surrounded by people working in a trade her whole life.
“Both my father and grandfather were diesel mechanics, which meant I spent majority of my time growing up watching my father fix anything he could,” she added.
Elisha inherited her drive and determination from her father and these traits have served her well over the last four years.
“I enjoy taking things apart and putting them back together, it gives me a passion for the industry which I believe is where I belong,” Elisha said.
Initial doubts
With some initial hesitation at first, Elisha is glad she pushed through the initial stages of her apprenticeship.
“I was terrified when I first began,” she said.
“My role has had its ups and downs, it has definitely been hard at times being the only female on the mechanical maintenance team, but I just take it day by day and ensure I leave work behind when I drive out the gate.”
Elisha’s work colleagues created an environment that made her feel welcomed and appreciated.
“Over the years I found my confidence from the support from my workplace and crew,” Elisha said.
“They have invested a lot of time in me to ensure I become the best tradie that I can be.”
Keeping busy
Outside of her rewarding career, Elisha keeps
busy with her family, and other leadership roles.
“I am a mother to 3 boys. So, it’s safe to say I have my hands full with taking them to sports, school and spending time together outdoors,” Elisha said.
“I am also a committee member for NAWIC, and I am the chair for the sub- committee, the Education and Mentoring Committee.”
“I am passionate about more women undertaking apprenticeships and becoming tradies.”
Immersed in her career, Elisha does not just want to be a fitter. She has her eyes set on expanding her horizons.
“I am interested in getting another trade, possibly electrical or operations,” Elisha said.
“I am eager to keep learning more about the power generation industry and feel that this is the area I will stay in for years to come.”