Meet the Grid Grads: Grace Monk

If I had to choose three words to describe being a graduate at National Grid, they’d be ‘exciting’, ‘inspiring’ and ‘supportive’. This was the case from the start. I was so excited on my first day and felt very well supported, both by my business coordinator and the other graduates – 55 of us joined on the day I did.

We spent the first week at Eakring, National Grid’s academy, and my impressions straight away were really positive; especially with how well planned and executed it all was.

As well as this initial period at Eakring, several other weeks throughout the scheme are based there and these are all about learning more about National Grid and our industry, and developing ourselves. We’ve also got to know each other as a group, which has been fun; it’s nice to have built such a strong support network.
 

A warm welcome

On my first day in the office after the initial training, I was apprehensive because, even though I was lucky enough to have had a year in industry during my business and marketing degree at Lincoln, this felt like it was my first day in the real world. It didn’t take long for my nerves to go though and I was soon excited once again and felt settled thanks to working with such a lovely team.

My first impressions were ‘wow there’s lots to learn’, but I also felt I could really make a difference here.
 

Connecting with customers

I’m now on my second placement of three on the programme, working in the ConnectNow team that has established a new digital customer connections platform. This has transformed the customer experience of connecting to the electricity transmission grid for our customers who are developing renewable energy projects.

I really enjoy engaging with different stakeholders, both internally and externally, and understanding their requirements…

I really enjoy engaging with different stakeholders, both internally and externally, and understanding their requirements; including helping them develop their ideas further, while always having the customer’s experience in mind.
 

Responsibility from the off

I’m surprised at the trust people put in me, as I thought my colleagues may be wary to give me large projects and allow me to get ‘stuck in’. I’m thrilled that this has not been the case and I’ve been given responsibility so early, although there is always guidance available when needed. I feel really supported and trusted in my role and that the work I’m doing is having an impact.
 

An energetic career choice

I really wanted a role where change was guaranteed, helping to make sure every day was different, and my work would be exciting. Decarbonisation and net zero are part of an exciting future for both National Grid and society as a whole. Working as part of this journey ensures I get this excitement.

It’s not just a job but a real personal development opportunity. I enjoy work every day and feel valued and supported by everyone around me.

It’s not just a job but a real personal development opportunity. I enjoy work every day and feel valued and supported by everyone around me.
 

Making a mark

I’ve recently been shortlisted for a ‘Rising Star Award’ at the Young Energy Professionals Awards. I’m extremely proud about this nomination, given the short time I’ve been in the industry.

I have a real passion for ‘customer centricity’ and aspire to become a senior leader of the future energy system, making sure that customers’ voices are heard and their needs exceeded. It’s been a great way to start working towards that goal.
 

Find out more about starting your career on our graduate programme