"I’m proof, along with many other women engineers, that there’s room for us in these industries. For me, EDF has been nothing but supportive and encouraging. My team, manager and other EDF members have helped my confidence grow and taught me to always believe in myself. I just wish I had taken up this role a long time ago."
Maria Rising, Smart Meter Installer
Maria is a mum of three, who goes to the gym most mornings. She’s spiritual, with a love for meditation, crystals and the moon. She's also a keen photographer and loves helping others. After working in childcare for 9 years, Maria decided on a career change, and knew she wanted to do something more hands on and challenging.
Now Maria installs gas and electric smart meters in residential and business properties. She prides herself on providing a positive experience for each customer. She also helps them understand how to reduce energy usage to save money and to help the environment.
Maria feels that EDF has always supported and encouraged her to progress and further her skills. “I’ve never been made to feel different from my male colleagues. I love hearing stories about successful women in male-dominated industries."
A typical day
7am: Log-in and review jobs for the day, usually five or six, with a mixture of both gas and electric installations. Some days include emergency jobs where the customer is off supply.
7.30am – 12am: Head out in the van. Drop off old metering stock and collect new stock twice a week. Start the morning jobs covering four areas in East London (E5, E10, E11 and E17 postcodes).
Installing meters involves:
- risk assessing beforehand and during the installation
- checking appliances
- removing old meters and installing new ones
- demonstrating the new inhome devices (IHD) and answering any questions from the customers
12am – 4pm: After a quick bite to eat, it’s time for the afternoon appointments. “No job is ever the same, some days are straightforward and some are very challenging, but I love my job! I also mentor new starters and upskill colleagues which is amazing and so important.”
Maria likes the opportunity to learn something new or progress her career further into different roles or even upskilling within the smart metering field.
She has done a few talks on Women’s International Day in her daughter’s primary school, showing slides of her journey and answering lots of questions about being a woman in a male dominated industry.
Maria’s priorities are “to continue to be the best engineer I can be, maintain the highest level of professionalism and further my knowledge. I want to continue inspiring women and girls around the world.”
