Cultivating the right energy

Aditi Paliwal finds it exhilarating to be in a dynamic and fast-changing energy industry, which is significantly different compared to only a few years ago. Energy prices are constantly fluctuating and providers of electricity, natural gas, and related services like Essent are aspiring towards becoming a one-stop energy destination for their customers. “There is a need from customers to receive their energy consumption data in real-time, and we are always looking for new and innovative ways to connect with our consumers,” she explains. Evelien van Blitterswijk agrees: “We are in the midst of a full-blown energy transition and companies are thinking critically about their pricing models, overall business models and their vision for the future.” Both Aditi and Evelien feel that one’s ability to adapt to change and raw talent are currencies that are valued highly in the energy sector – and feel that those skills transcend gender within their own organisation.  

Forging opportunities  

Aditi and Evelien have been working together at Essent for around three years, where they have navigated growth paths alongside each other and cheered each other on. As two women working in tech, they are both dedicated to uplifting other women in the energy sector and wider tech industry. “I really encourage women to believe in themselves and to take that first, and probably, most difficult step to pursue new opportunities. Then, once you are on your way, discard the fear of judgement and accept feedback as critical  – and constructive,” says Aditi. Aditi’s advice is based on her own experience while navigating obstacles during the course of her career that ultimately helped her hone her own resilience. She is proud to have overcome some low moments, which moulded her into the person she is today, and helped her to be a more empathic leader. There is not a particular moment, award or promotion that Evelien specifically singles out as the biggest achievement of her career, but she is inherently proud of how she has developed the ability to advocate for herself and to articulate her ideas and suggestions to the advantage of her own career, and organisation. Evelien also offers advice to women aspiring to further their digital careers: “Develop confidence to forge your own path, and be vocal about it. Lots of people can help you get there; gather insights from your managers, peers, and people who inspire you. It’s okay if you don’t know the exact path, but work hard to unearth the direction you want to go in – and then go get it!” 

The power of self-care 

Both Aditi and Evelien are unapologetic about protecting their energies in a fast-paced industry. Aditi gathers a lot of personal motivation from talking and connecting with peers – and people -- in general. “As a release train engineer, you are in the position to coach people towards what they want to achieve and to help them self-actualise. It’s important to me for everyone to encourage each other at the right moment,” she says. Aditi is disciplined in taking regular breaks and vacations and centres herself through strength training and weight lifting at the gym. Evelien is similarly energised by connecting to people, witnessing progress and watching teams grow. “I’m really bad at doing nothing,” she laughs. She packs her agenda with interesting hobbies like horse riding, crochet, skiing, biking, and mountaineering. “But luckily I’m also good with knowing my limits and when I need to make a change,” she adds.  

Mutual admiration – and aspiration  

Aditi and Evelien both feel strongly that women should not see each other as competition in the workplace, and that the gains of more diversity brought about by gender balance benefits everyone. Evelien recalls an informal conversation where Aditi was proposed for a promotion she was interested in at the time, and remembers that her first instinct was to be happy for Aditi’s prospect rather than feeling bypassed herself. Her philosophy still remains: “I will get wherever I need to go, whenever I get there.” Evelien admires Aditi’s unwavering and clear vision of what she wants the dynamics in her teams to be, and she immediate addresses any underlying factors that are not helpful to the collective team. When Aditi reflects on what she admires in Evelien, her ability to keep her calm in stressful situations is top of mind. “I’m constantly impressed with how she can stay centered whilst still being vocal, and firm about her desired course of action.” As female leaders in the energy industry, they both bring their unique strengths to the table, but feel similar about their advice to aspiring leaders: “Nothing is holding you back, except yourself. Find the place where you can grow – and shape your own future.”  

This article was originally published in the RightBrains DIGIDIVA Magazine. Check out this year's issue for more inspiration!