After four years as Chair of the Australian Power Institute (API), Peter Langdon reflects on his tenure, the challenges faced, and the progress made during his time leading the board. Having first joined the API Board in 2009, Peter has played an integral role in shaping the organisation and its contributions to the Australian power sector.
The Journey to Chair
Peter’s journey with API began four years after the organisation’s inception. By the time he stepped into the Chair position in 2021, he already had a deep understanding of the API’s mission and the evolving challenges within the energy sector.
Reflecting on what he wished he had known before becoming Chair, Peter admitted that the commitment required was greater than he had anticipated. However, he noted that the role provided unexpected personal and professional growth. “I’ve been amazed at how much influence the Chair has on API’s outcomes,” he said. “It’s more than just a board position—it’s about being part of the entire organisation.”
Challenges and Resilience
Like any leadership role, Peter’s tenure was not without its hurdles. Two key challenges stand out:
Navigating an Industry Downturn
At one stage, API faced uncertainty as organisations questioned the need for graduate recruitment and industry engagement. Some members considered withdrawing from API, making it a difficult period for the organisation.
Leading Through the COVID-19 Pandemic
COVID-19 posed a unique challenge for API, which thrives on personal engagement through programs like the Summer School and graduate placements. “Our work is fundamentally contact-based,” Peter explained. “Guiding API through that period was tough, but in hindsight, we emerged stronger with a broader range of offerings, blending online and in-person engagement.”
Achievements and Successes
Among the many accomplishments during his tenure, Peter is particularly proud of API’s efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion.
The Powerful Women Leadership Program stands out as a key milestone, helping to reshape API’s industry events and initiatives. “It was incredible to walk into a room and see a diverse group of people engaged in industry discussions,” he said. “It was a moment of real progress for API and the sector.”
Another significant achievement was elevating API’s profile within the industry and government. “We’ve secured our seat at the table when it comes to advocating for change,” Peter noted. “Through persistent effort, API now plays a more prominent role in shaping academic and industry conversations.”
A Defining Moment
One of the most memorable experiences of Peter’s tenure was the Powerful Women Leadership Program at the Adelaide Summer School. As one of only a few men in the room, he found himself in the position of defending and explaining the challenges women face in the energy sector. “It was both challenging and rewarding,” he said. “I’d like to think that, in a small way, we made a real difference.”
He also fondly recalled the Summer School gala dinner, where attendees let loose after days of formal discussions. “Seeing a room full of people genuinely enjoying themselves—dancing, celebrating—that was a great moment,” he said.
Leadership Lessons
Peter describes his experience as Chair as a career-defining leadership opportunity. “It’s broadened my understanding of governance and leadership,” he reflected. “Supporting an organisation remotely, influencing decisions, and understanding the challenges of leading an entity like API have all shaped my perspective.”
Advice for Future Chairs
As Peter steps down from the role, he offers words of wisdom to his successor, Renee, and future API Chairs:
Make Time for the Role – “Especially early on, take the time to understand the scope and impact of the position.”
Own the Position – “The Chair role isn’t just procedural; it’s an opportunity to shape API’s direction and impact.”
A Privilege to Lead
Looking back, Peter considers it a privilege to have led API during a critical period of transformation. “It’s been an honour to work alongside an incredible team, including API CEO Dr. David Pointing,” he said. “I feel fortunate to have had the chance to contribute to API’s evolution.”
As API looks ahead, Peter’s contributions will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, ensuring the organisation remains a vital force in developing Australia’s future power engineering leaders.
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