Powering Progress: Aderonke Dahunsi’s Journey from International Student to Energy Professional in Newfoundland and Labrador
The lights stay on across Newfoundland and Labrador because of people like Aderonke Adedeji Dahunsi, engineers working quietly behind the scenes to power entire communities.
Today, as a Resource Planning Engineer at Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, Aderonke plays a critical role in maintaining the reliability, adequacy, and resilience of the province’s electricity system. As she explains, “I contribute to ensuring the reliability, adequacy, and resilience of the provincial electricity system by conducting detailed planning and analysis.” Her work supports the systems that power homes, businesses, and communities which ensure they remain stable, sustainable, and prepared for the future.
From Academic Beginnings to Professional Breakthrough
When Aderonke began her journey as an international student in Newfoundland and Labrador, she was driven by a clear purpose: to build a career in energy systems and contribute to something larger than herself. Like many international students, her path started with uncertainty; arriving in a new place as an international student, carrying ambition, questions, and the quiet determination to build a future from the ground up.
Following her graduation, Aderonke set her sights on transitioning into the local workforce. She quickly realized that success required more than academic achievement. Understanding the local job market, adapting to workplace expectations, and building professional connections were all essential and not always straightforward. The biggest challenge, she highlights, was “securing my first role in the local labour market” and “navigating the job search, understanding local hiring practices, as well as demonstrating my skills in a new professional context were all hurdles.”
Yet, through persistence and determination, she steadily built connections, gained confidence, and found her place. Her persistence paid off when she joined Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro as a Resource Planning Engineer, a role that marked the beginning of her professional journey in the province’s energy sector.
Growing Within the Energy Sector
Over time, her role has evolved significantly. What began as a technically focused position has expanded into a more collaborative and strategic function. Her responsibilities include conducting detailed system analysis, supporting long-term resource planning, and collaborating with internal teams, regulators, and key stakeholders. She describes, “my role has expanded to include collaborating with teams, regulators, and stakeholders to support evidence-based decisions that safeguard communities and promote sustainable energy solutions.” These efforts contribute directly to informed, evidence-based decisions that shape the province’s energy future. With each step forward, her work is becoming less about numbers alone and more about the people and decisions those numbers ultimately serve.
The Power of Mentorship and Community
A key factor in Aderonke’s successful transition was her participation in the Study and Stay NL program. The program provided a range of resources that helped bridge the gap between student life and professional employment.
Among all her experiences, one moment stands out as particularly meaningful which is being matched with her mentor. Although her mentor was not from an engineering background, the guidance she received proved invaluable. “Working with her gave me confidence, practical insights, and a sense of integration into the professional community in Newfoundland and Labrador.” Aderonke recalls, “that experience made me feel truly supported and helped me realize that I was well-positioned to thrive in the local workforce,”
Moreover, she mentioned that networking opportunities further strengthened her journey, allowing her to connect with professionals in her field and gain insight into the local energy sector. Additionally, workplace culture workshops also proved genuinely useful, helping her understand communication styles, team dynamics, and organizational expectations in Newfoundland and Labrador. Together, these experiences helped her to find her footing and carve out a clear path forward.
Choosing to Stay and Build a Future
Aderonke’s experience with Study and Stay NL ultimately influenced her decision to remain in Newfoundland and Labrador long-term. She remarks, “Participation in Study and Stay NL had a significant influence on my decision to continue living and working in Newfoundland and Labrador long-term.” According to her, beyond professional guidance, it helped build a strong sense of community and belonging in the province, revealing that Newfoundland and Labrador provides not only career opportunities but also a supportive space for personal and professional growth. The combination of career opportunities, supportive networks, and a welcoming environment solidified her commitment to building her future in the province.
Advice for the Next Generation
Reflecting on her journey, Aderonke offers direct and practical advice to current international students: “be proactive, seek mentorship, and engage with the local professional community as early as possible.”
She emphasizes, “building relationships, learning about workplace culture, and understanding the expectations of your field can make a significant difference when transitioning from student to professional.”
She also encourages continued development of programs like Study and Stay NL. Expanding mentorship and networking opportunities, along with offering practical, locally tailored career workshops, can further support students as they transition into the workforce.
Creating more platforms for direct interaction between students and industry professionals, she adds, would help build confidence and better prepare graduates for real-world careers.
Looking Ahead
As Newfoundland and Labrador continues to evolve, professionals like Aderonke Dahunsi are quietly shaping what that progress looks like in practice. Her path reflects a steady shift from arriving as an international student to becoming someone who now actively contributes to the province’s workforce. Each step has added to her growth, while also strengthening the communities she works within. Her story also reflects the purpose behind initiatives such as Study and Stay NL supporting individuals to build their futures here while contributing to a more diverse and resilient workforce across the province.