Celebrating Women in Industry: A Night to Remember

Australian Power Equipment had the honour of attending the recent 2025 Women in Industry Awards night at the Carousel in Melbourne, where our co-founder and Director, Abby Crawford, was named a finalist in the Business Development Success category.

Whilst we didn’t take home the award, we couldn’t be prouder to stand among a remarkable group of finalists — including Tammy O’Connor (KingKira Group), Rebecca Manley (Stanwell Asset Maintenance Company), Jodie Dean (The Landscape Association), and Georgia O’Connor (Marvel Engineers) — and to celebrate the winner, whose success was incredibly well deserved.

This category recognises outstanding growth, innovation, and leadership — qualities that Abby has brought to APE from day one. In just five years, she’s helped transform our company from a startup into a nationally recognised supplier of high-voltage power equipment, now trusted across the mining, infrastructure, renewables, and defence sectors.

Her strategic approach has seen us shift from transactional sales to delivering multimillion-dollar turnkey projects, expand our footprint across Australia and New Zealand, and embed sustainability at the heart of our operations — including donating over 8% of gross profit to conservation initiatives. It’s that forward-thinking mindset that earned her a place among this year’s top industry change makers.

“Being named a finalist alongside such extraordinary women was both humbling and energising. The Women in Industry Awards aren’t just a celebration of success — they’re a reminder that the future of our industries is brighter, more inclusive, and more innovative when women lead boldly. At Australian Power Equipment, we’ve only scratched the surface of what’s possible. I hope our story encourages others to back themselves — even in spaces where they may not ‘fit the mould.’ That’s where real change begins.” reflects Abby Crawford.

Director Abby Crawford at the Women in Industry Awards night

The Women in Industry Awards are more than just accolades — they’re a platform to share stories, amplify women’s voices, and spark future opportunities across traditionally male-dominated sectors. The energy in the room was electric, and the talent on stage truly inspiring.

To the organisers, sponsors, and judges — thank you for shining a light on the women shaping Australia’s industrial future. And to everyone who’s supported Abby and APE on this journey so far — we’re just getting started.

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