Gunilla Burrowes

Gunilla Burrowes

Dr Gunilla Burrowes joins the VMS mentoring program with over 30 years of corporate experience across academia and industry. Her electrical engineering expertise has been recognised by both national and international STEM bodies; she’s a Fellow of Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering, a Senior Member of IEEE, and an Honorary Fellow of Engineers Australia.

Gunilla is a pillar of the Newcastle innovation ecosystem, having co-founded her own tech company, the region’s first smart-city co-working space, and a Hunter angel investment organisation.

“When I first got involved with angel investing, it was because I wanted to learn about business decisions and investing. All that work has been critical in forming my understanding of the space - the sorts of resources start-ups need, and how to position themselves.”

Along with Gunilla’s industrial expertise and her pro-active fostering of innovation across the region, she’s also dedicated to several gender equity projects. She is the co-founder of Gender Matters, has managed diversity programs at a number of research institutions, and was an instigator of Engineers Australia’s Year of Women in Engineering in 2007.

“The equity and diversity work has really helped me in my understanding and valuing of individuals, and in navigating mentee’s sensitivities. I hope to provide a positive experience throughout their journey.”

Gunilla is excited to share her love of learning and the growth-mindset with her VMS mentee cohort.