Our Stories: Part One
Bobbi’s Story
“I fell into renewables. I come from a strong background in customer service and administration, and a little project management. I started in a government funded program educating people about how to save energy. I was self-taught as there were no courses back then on energy efficiency, and nothing for courses on renewables unless you wanted to be installing them. Then I was coaxed into a solar company as their Operations Manager, training franchisees across four states, that was fun.
In 2009 I started my first solar business with 3 others. I loved getting out into the rural communities and talking to them about the benefits of solar. My primary roles in that business were marketing, OH&S, community engagement, sales, training and human resources. That business sadly ended in 2016 with the split of the partnership. Then in 2017 we started Solar Integrity with 3 partners, 1 is also my life partner and the other was our first apprentice at our previous business, which I have loved the journey of seeing him as an apprentice through to being our equal business partner. Again very grass roots, helping local community energy groups with education and projects. We have done a lot of work with funded trials and micro grids, including incorporating heat pumps for energy efficiency and solar soaks.
My roles in Solar Integrity are Office Manager, community engagement, human resources, marketing, bookkeeping, and training, and probably more that I have forgotten. I am not starved of variety that is for sure. This industry has given me many opportunities. I often speak at a community and national level and I love it. I have represented my industry at a state and national level through consultation committees and boards.
I have travelled and I have met amazing friends, many lifelong. A group of us even created Australian Women in Solar Energy.
I found my passion, and exactly where I am meant to be.”
Bobbi McKibbin,
Solar Integrity, Wodonga
Co-Founder of AWISE
Christine’s Story
“I have always loved the environment and sustainability and was part of the environment committee in secondary school but in my final years of school I didn’t get into the science course (I wanted) at university, so went in a different direction. 7 years ago, I fell into the solar industry by chance and just loved that there was so much to learn with technology and really felt like I was making a difference in the world to reduce fossil fuels and C02 emissions.
I love the diversity of thought that having female colleagues brings and the comradery created by Australian Women in Solar Energy (AWISE). I have also had a lot of opportunity through the industry to attend many great events, factory tours & conferences both in Australia and overseas.”
Christine Kennedy
Total Solar Solutions, Melbourne
Member of AWISE
Jess’s Story
Jess, a communications professional with 12 years of experience in advertising, PR, and marketing, has spent the last six years in the solar and energy tech industries.
Working in this sector has been incredibly rewarding, as it allows her to combine her passion for strategic thinking with a drive to make a real difference in the world.
Jess Christiansen
Smart Energy Council
Victoria
Layla’s Story
Leila is a skilled and passionate renewable energy professional with deep technical expertise and a strong commitment to driving the clean energy transition.
With extensive experience across solar PV, microgrids, battery energy storage, and off-grid solutions, she brings a holistic understanding of how distributed energy systems can deliver reliable, sustainable power — even in remote environments. Her knowledge also spans electric motors, variable speed drives, and both low and medium voltage switchgear.
A proud advocate for Australian women in the solar industry, Leila shares invaluable real-world insights — from project delivery to leadership — gained over years of working at the frontline of Australia’s renewable energy transformation.
Leila Playmore
Melbourne
Anne’s Story
Anne is the Technical Operations Manager at SolarPlus, a leading design and sales software company in the solar industry. With her extensive expertise and deep understanding of solar technologies, Ann plays a pivotal role in driving the success of SolarPlus, ensuring that the software meets the evolving needs of solar professionals.
Anne is a leading expert in off-grid systems with a deep passion for sustainable energy solutions. With years of experience in designing and implementing off-grid systems, Anne has become a go-to authority in the field. Her expertise lies in creating reliable, efficient, and innovative energy solutions that empower individuals and communities to live independently from the traditional power grid. Anne’s work is not just about technology—it’s about bringing energy access to remote areas and making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Her dedication to sustainability and her commitment to advancing the field of renewable energy make her an inspiring figure in the industry.
Anne Wilson
SolarPlus Australia
Toolebewong