With a PhD and a Master’s Degree in Engineering Management and Energy Systems, Aderonke has built a strong foundation for her work in long-term energy planning. With over a decade of experience in the utility sector, her work with us as a Resource Planning Engineer focuses on developing reliable, efficient, and sustainable energy systems that will support our provincial electricity system into the future.

Tell us about your role at Hydro.

I help ensure that our provincial electricity system remains reliable and ready to meet future demand. Using specialized planning tools, I analyze how much power we’ll need, how best to generate it and how to keep the system strong, even as demand or weather changes. I also support other teams across Hydro – like our Operations and Engineering teams – by providing technical insights so they are able to make informed decisions which helps provide reliable electricity for communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.

An average day for me involves system modeling, analyzing data, and preparing technical reports. I work closely with my colleagues on the Resource Planning Team to ensure our electricity system remains reliable and ready to meet future demand. I really enjoy problem-solving, learning from my colleagues, and finding new ways to improve our work.

What’s something about your job that most people may not know?

Many people may not realize just how much planning and analysis goes on behind the scenes to keep their lights on every day. My work involves conducting system reliability and generation adequacy analysis, developing long-term generation expansion plans, and maintaining accurate planning data to ensure our electricity system stays reliable and efficient. It’s detailed work but incredibly rewarding knowing that it helps keep communities powered and prepared for the future.

With careful planning and forecasting, the work of my team – and other teams all across Hydro – supports the smooth operation of our electricity system, and ensures communities can count on safe, dependable power every day.

What made you want to work at Hydro?

I joined Hydro seven months ago, and it’s been a rewarding experience so far. I was drawn to Hydro’s strong reputation for reliability, community service, and commitment to sustainable and inclusive energy solutions. Joining the Resource Planning Team has offered me an opportunity to apply my experience and contribute to projects that make a real difference in people’s daily lives. I also appreciate Hydro’s supportive culture and the opportunities provided for women in engineering. There is a great focus on collaboration, diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning. I really value being part of a team where colleagues support each other, share knowledge, and encourage professional growth.

What’s the biggest reason you’re motivated to do your best work every day?

The biggest reason I’m motivated to do my best work every day is knowing that my work directly supports safe, reliable, and sustainable power for communities across Newfoundland and Labrador. Seeing the results of careful planning and collaboration come together to keep the electricity system safe and reliable gives me a real sense of accomplishment. It’s incredibly rewarding to collaborate and contribute to projects that make a meaningful difference in people’s daily lives.

How do you spend your time outside of work?

I am originally from Nigeria and moved to Canada in 2023. Outside of work, I spend time with my family and love exploring and supporting my children’s interests and activities (I’m a mum of four). I also enjoy cooking – it’s a creative outlet and a great way to unwind and connect with loved ones – and I work to stay active in my community.

Mentoring and lifelong learning are important to me, so I especially enjoy volunteering with community organizations which support education, mentorship, and inclusion. This summer, I had the pleasure of participating in the ANC Newcomer Champion Series – an initiative designed to support newcomer professionals by encouraging skills sharing and learning. As a guest speaker, I joined a guided discussion where I shared practical insights from my career journey, key skills that helped me navigate the professional landscape and the importance of networking in job search success. It was inspiring to connect with new engineers, each bringing unique experiences and perspectives. It was a privilege to support newcomers and help foster a welcoming, inclusive professional community.