James and his team work to oversee the Labrador-Island Link protection and control software – which acts as the ‘brain’ of this complex system – ensuring power flows from Labrador to the island and to our export markets. The work is unpredictable and challenging, but James finds it rewarding to know his work has a meaningful impact for our customers.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I grew up in Conception Bay South and moved to St. John’s shortly after graduation, where I now live with my wife, Val, and our 7-month-old son, Liam. I graduated from MUN with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 2013 and started my career with Hydro shortly after.

Describe your role here at Hydro.

I’m a High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Engineer with our Power Supply Operations Support Engineering Team. Over the past few years, my work has focused primarily on the construction and commissioning of the Labrador-Island Link.

This project has required extensive coordination across multiple teams within Hydro as well as other utilities throughout Atlantic Canada. During construction, an important part of my role was to ensure the successful long-term operation of this asset within our provincial electricity system and now I’m also responsible for supporting its day-to-day operations. Since the Labrador-Island Link is a new asset, each day often brings something new, but typically my role includes providing engineering support to our operations team, investigating system issues and developing mitigation strategies to help address any concerns that arise and to prevent similar issues from reoccurring in the future. The work is unpredictable and challenging, but that’s what keeps it interesting!

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

The Labrador-Island Link is the main interconnection between Labrador and Newfoundland, providing the only path for power from the Muskrat Falls Generating Station, in Labrador, to serve customers on the island and export markets outside our province.
Our team has a very specialized skill set and we are regularly looked to for our knowledge and experience to help ensure the successful operation of this critical asset.

What role do you play in ensuring Hydro can provide safe, reliable power to our customers?

My primary responsibility is overseeing all aspects related to the Labrador-Island Link protection and control software – which acts as the ‘brain’ of the entire system. It’s very complex, and without this system, power cannot flow on the Labrador-Island Link.

My role plays a key part in ensuring the seamless flow of power from Labrador to the island and our export markets. I am responsible for investigating and addressing any operational challenges that arise, identifying the root causes, and implementing effective solutions to restore service – all which ensures a consistent and reliable power supply for our customers.

What made you want to come to work at Hydro?

I was drawn to Hydro’s strong commitment to safety. During my co-op terms, I saw firsthand how this company prioritizes the well-being of employees, and the safety-first culture really stood out to me. Combined with challenging work assignments and continuous learning opportunities, I knew that I wanted to join Hydro – and to still be here 12 years later, doing work that I love, proves it was the right decision for me.

What motivates you to do your best work here every day?

The biggest driver for me is simple – the work we do truly matters.

Whether it’s renewing aging assets, developing new sources of electricity, or supporting electrification initiatives, we are at the forefront of the energy transition and have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact for the people of our province.