At a launch event in Kawerau recently, Eastland Generation announced it is the new silver sponsor of Women in Geothermal (Wing) NZ.

At the same time, WING confirmed it is expanding its presence in the Kawerau geothermal community, to promote equality and career opportunities in this growing sector.

Over 40 people from Eastland Generation, and other employers and education providers attended the event.

“We’re proud to put our support behind Wing and the important work they’re doing in this industry,” said Eastland Generation chief executive Officer Alice Pettigrew.

“Our portfolio includes four geothermal power plants, and we’re headquartered here in Kawerau. We’re a diverse organisation with women at all levels and in many different roles, but there is still so much more we can do collectively.

“The Eastland Generation team wants to lead by example. By providing a supportive workplace environment that uplifts women, everyone will benefit.

“Our Wing sponsorship will help us achieve this. We also hope it encourages more women to consider the wide range of career paths available in the geothermal sector.”

Jarred Moroney, the company’s general manager – generation, was instrumental in arranging the sponsorship. He said the organisation was already taking part in the training opportunities offered by Wing.

“I’ve been attending the Wingman training course, which is designed to help men in the sector become champions of gender equity.

“This has been hugely eye-opening. It’s educated me about the barriers to getting more women into the geothermal industry and is giving me a much greater understanding of how, as individuals and organisations, we all have a part to play. It’s facilitated extremely well, and I feel very grateful to be involved.”

Wing chair Nyssa Brewer thanked Eastland Generation for its sponsorship and acknowledged everyone who attended the launch.

“Wing is a global not-for-profit run by volunteers, with country chapters worldwide. Sponsors like Eastland Generation are crucial for the New Zealand chapter, enabling the advocacy, mentoring, networking, and professional development that moves the needle for women in geothermal.

“Our mission is to promote the education, professional development and advancement of women in the geothermal community, through initiatives that attract and retain talent, build professional and leadership capability, and foster belonging in the sector.

“The Kawerau Geothermal Reservoir is one of the largest geothermal fields in the world, and sustainable investment by Eastland Generation and others is creating new jobs. So, it’s very timely for Wing to raise our profile in this region.”

Wing NZ has over 500 active members, 42 percent of whom are male. It is the only organisation focused on achieving gender equality in the geothermal community, and represent academia, government, generators, students, direct use, service companies and more.