Proud Kamilaroi and Gundungurra man George Stockwell is making his way at Zinfra, one of Australia's largest service providers to the energy industry.

The 28-year-old told National Indigenous Times he pursued a career in the sector after advice from a friend.

"About eight to nine years ago a friend just told me about it... he told me I should apply for it because I had just moved back to Sydney and I was looking for work, and what better way than an apprenticeship; footing to get into the gas company," he said.

"Everything fell into place. I had a traineeship at the ATO, so back then I couldn't imagine myself on the tools, so it was definitely a hard road and there was a lot of learning and a lot of change for me."

Mr Stockwell said the leap of faith was not an easy one, but a supportive environment and family made a key difference.

"My apprenticeship was a challenge and feeling like I wasn't good enough held me back, but I overcame that. My Aunties were crying for me it was so hard but I stuck with it," he said.

"I've been at Zinfra since 2019 and the leadership team is so supportive. They are always thinking of me and encouraging growth from management down to team leaders. Having that open communication has been key."

Growing up in Sydney's inner west and later moving to Penrith, Mr Stockwell was raised in a closeknit family environment. His cultural heritage played a significant role in shaping his identity and values.

"I grew up with my mum, my uncle and my grandparents. My culture and the bonds I share with my family and cousins, I wouldn't give that up for a billion dollars. The women in my life are incredibly strong and have shaped me into the man I am today," he said.

Currently working as a Gas Services Technician, Mr Stockwell's role involves patrolling critical infrastructure and supervising civil works around high-pressure gas assets. He admits that initially being in a supervisory role was difficult but a keen mentor and strong relationships saw him through.

"Leading a team is different from being on the tools; there's more responsibility and you need to be gutsy. It wasn't a role I originally saw myself in. My mentor at Zinfra looked out for me for two years and I strive to be like him. It's been key to my development and now I'm studying for a Cert IV in Leadership and Management, aiming for a management role in distribution," he said.

GM of Gas Services at Zinfra, Craig Farrugia, said George's contributions to the team and his commitment to personal and professional growth were truly inspiring.

"George's dedication and hard work have not only propelled him forward in his career but also set a powerful example for all of us at Zinfra. George embodies the spirit of resilience and cultural pride, reminding us of the importance of diversity and open conversations in the workplace.

"George's story is a testament to the positive impact that fostering an inclusive environment can have on both individuals and organisations," Mr Farrugia said.

Mr Stockwell reflected on the last week's Reconciliation events, noting the importance of sharing history and addressing injustices faced by First Nations people.

"It's about seeing us, the oldest continuous living culture and listening to us. We live here too, and we want you to see us and learn from us," he said.

"It's about having those hard conversations that no one wants to have. Once you start, it'll flow easier. It's also about having the empathy to sit, listen and understand."

Mr Stockwell sees his role at Zinfra as contributing to broader reconciliation goals and is a member of various groups within the organisation, including the Indigenous Employment Network and the Diversity and Inclusion and Belonging Council.

His advice for young Indigenous people looking to enter the energy sector is to be bold and back yourself in.

"The support I've garnered from work is unwavering. It can be very frightening, but the network is great. Don't take anything for granted, put in the hard work and you'll be rewarded," he said.

George told National Indigenous Times he looks forward to learning more about the industry and pursuing his goals.

"At the moment I do a dual role - my current role and I am also a secondary standby officer at the moment. I am also externally studying, I do want to potentially work my way into a management type of role. I am still relatively young and still learning so much about the gas industry... I am going to do what I can at the moment, work my way, do some secondments and learn so much more. There are so many avenues you can learn from," he said.