Accelerate Action: Women Leading Energy. Louise Bishop, Operations Manager - South at Zinfra
In continuation of our International Women's Day campaign Accelerate Action: Women Leading Energy, we are highlighting the women shaping the future of energy. In this instalment, Kasey Miegel, Team Lead, Perth shares Louise Bishop's story, Operations Manager – South at Zinfra, whose career journey has spanned over two decades in the industry.
Before entering the energy sector, Louise spent several years in the finance industry, working in Deloitte’s Sales and Marketing Division across Tasmania and Victoria. With a Diploma of Project Management and an alumni status from the Tasmanian Leaders Program, she developed a strong foundation in leadership and strategic thinking. She was also a founding member of the not-for-profit organisation Dress for Success Tasmania. Her passion lies in building and developing strong delivery teams - something that has been central to her success in the energy industry.
A Two-Decade Journey in Energy
Louise recently celebrated 24 years in the energy sector. After moving from Melbourne back to her hometown in Tasmania, she took on a role in the Zinfra project team constructing the gas transmission pipeline between Victoria and Tasmania. From there, she transitioned into operations, returned to Melbourne, and embarked on a career in project management. Now managing $97 million worth of work, Louise is playing a vital role in supporting Australia’s evolving energy network as it shifts towards renewable energy solutions.
Finding Purpose in a Changing Industry
Louise admits that 25 years ago, she never envisioned herself working in the energy sector. However, her passion for working with teams and helping others grow seamlessly translated into project management. "I enjoy working with a team of people, helping them develop and grow confidence in themselves and what they’re doing," she says. The dynamic nature of the industry, coupled with the continuous opportunities for learning and development, drew her in. Over the years, she has held diverse roles in project management, business development, and operational leadership, always driven by a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the sector, industry partners, and the wider Australian community.
Proudest Career Achievements
For Louise, the trust and reputation her team has built with clients stand out as one of her greatest professional accomplishments. "We have worked hard to develop trust and demonstrate our capability, which has led to greater opportunities to be involved in the planning and development phase of a number of significant projects," she reflects. With multiple renewable energy initiatives connecting to Victoria’s network, Louise is passionate about ensuring sustainability remains at the core of every project. Beyond infrastructure, she is committed to supporting local communities and fostering leadership development within the industry.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Support Systems
Louise acknowledges that her experience in the energy sector has been overwhelmingly positive. She has felt supported and encouraged by her colleagues - many of whom have been male allies who actively set her up for success. "I’ve been very fortunate that I have felt supported and encouraged to take on new challenges," she shares. In moments of uncertainty, she has leaned on mentors and female peers for advice and guidance. Recognising the industry’s need for more female representation, Louise is proud to work for a company that prioritises diversity and inclusion, ensuring women are not only welcomed but also set up to thrive.
Paving the Way for Future Generations
Looking ahead, Louise believes female representation in energy will continue to grow as women already in the industry share their experiences and uplift others. "I believe that female representation will increase significantly in the coming years, as females currently within the industry use their experiences to encourage and set others up for success," she says. She is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of female leaders and ensuring clear pathways exist for women entering the sector. While energy remains male-dominated, she sees progress and hopes to one day witness project teams where women outnumber men.
Advice for Women Considering a Career in Energy
Louise encourages women to seek out mentors within the industry to understand the vast opportunities available. "The extent of opportunity is enormous, and what Zinfra does really well is utilise your existing skills as the foundation for your career in energy," she explains. The energy sector values diverse skill sets, and Zinfra has successfully integrated professionals from backgrounds in sales, healthcare, agriculture, and even the defence force. Her message to aspiring professionals is simple: "If you are passionate about being part of a growing sector, don’t hesitate—there is a place for you in energy."
Exciting Innovations and Industry Trends
Louise is particularly interested in the potential for greater collaboration between delivery partners, network owners, and developers through holistic risk management approaches. "This would drive better environmental, cultural, sustainable, and innovative project outcomes," she notes.
Championing Change at Zinfra
Currently, Louise is working towards creating a female-majority project delivery team. She is rethinking how projects are structured, especially those that require travel, to improve work-life balance for employees. "Do we have to be away Monday to Friday every week? Or can we work on consolidated blocks to give families a better work-life balance?" she asks.
Accelerating Action for Gender Equality
For International Women’s Day, Louise is focused on tangible initiatives to increase female participation in energy. She actively supports recruitment efforts, apprenticeships, and graduate programs to identify and eliminate barriers preventing women from entering the industry. She also challenges energy leaders to integrate diversity and equality as core components of project development strategies. "Challenging everyone in the industry to have diversity and equality as a discipline that is considered in project development and execution strategies is essential," she asserts.
Her Insipirations
Louise draws motivation from the many women she works alongside, observing their adaptability and leadership. "The women I work with and around are my inspiration. Any leader, male or female, needs to be always evaluating and reflecting on their leadership styles," she says. In a constantly evolving sector like energy, she believes that strong leadership - regardless of gender - requires continuous learning and reflection.
A Future of Possibilities
Louise is proud of the progress being made in the energy industry and remains committed to creating an inclusive, diverse, and sustainable future. As she continues to drive change at Zinfra, she hopes to see more women entering and thriving in the sector. Through mentorship, advocacy, and strategic leadership, she is helping to shape the next generation of energy professionals - ensuring that the industry is not only equipped for the future but also representative of the communities it serves.
Celebrate With Us:
To learn more about our Accelerate Action: Women Leading Energy series or to nominate an inspiring individual in the industry for our ongoing Career Conversations: Powering A Sustainable Future series view our intro piece here.
