Market Applications, Siemens Energy
Q: What initially brought you to Rice and the MEECON program?
A: Like most young people, I wasn't entirely sure what I wanted to do with my life. However, during my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to learn from some profound economists who challenged me to gain a deeper understanding of my interest in energy. Growing up, I was fortunate to witness the rise of renewable technology and electric vehicles, as well as the challenges these posed for the future of energy. Connecting my love for economics with my interest in energy is what ultimately led me to this exceptional program.
Q: How did your experience in the MEECON program prepare you for a professional career?
A: The professional master’s program in energy economics prepared me better than any other degree I could have pursued. One of its key defining features was the opportunity to step outside the classroom and engage with real-world issues and opportunities within the energy sector. What sets Rice's professional master’s program apart from other universities is its focus on building meaningful relationships.
The program taught me more than just making small talk at networking events and handing out resumes. It equipped me to discuss real problems facing the energy sector, explore possible solutions in-depth, and develop the inquisitive mindset required during interviews. Additionally, the program emphasized practical, data-driven learning, which meant I wasn't just absorbing information from textbooks with no real-world application. Instead, I could take what I learned and contribute meaningfully to conversations with leading professionals in the energy sector and during formal interviews.
Q: In what ways do you feel Rice’s location in Houston, Texas, enhanced your experience as a MEECON student?
A: The location of Rice in Houston was a significant advantage for my professional master's experience, allowing me to network with professionals from around the world. As the energy capital of the world, Houston proved invaluable for my professional development. Whether attending energy conferences, seminars, or panels hosted by the Baker Institute, I had the opportunity to engage with some of the most influential people in the energy landscape.
Q: What are your primary responsibilities in your current role?
A: At Siemens Energy, I work within Grid Technologies and Grid Enhancement Technologies in the Digital Grid Unit in Market Applications. I collaborate cross-functionally with energy analysts, engineers, and technical specialists to develop and deliver technologies that digitize the grid during the energy transition while maintaining economic feasibility.
The energy transition can be costly, so it's my responsibility to ensure that our technologies provide substantial economic benefits while being commercially scalable and adaptable. Although I currently cover the North American market, I have recently expanded into the Middle East and other territories as the global energy transition has made grid digitization a top priority.
Q: What are some ways you incorporate what you learned in the MEECON program into your career?
A: Working in the energy sector, I am often amazed by how surprised people are when they learn that my background is in energy economics. It's such a niche and specialized degree that most people have never heard of it. My unique educational background allowed me to penetrate the labor market in ways I never imagined. Out of a company with over 95,000 employees, I have yet to meet anyone else with a degree in energy economics.
One of the most valuable lessons from my program was learning to think like an economist. As someone surrounded by engineers daily, I approach problem-solving differently than they do. This distinctive perspective has been one of the defining factors of my journey since earning my graduate degree.
Q: What are some of your long-term goals for your career?
A: As a young and ambitious professional, I have many career aspirations and long-term goals. Although I never limit myself regarding what I can achieve or where life may take me, I am determined to ensure that my long-term career is centered around energy and economics. I would love to continue working on grid digitization, contribute to one of the major Independent System Operators (ISOs), or even launch a political career within the U.S. Department of Energy.
Q: What is some advice you would give to someone thinking about enrolling in the MEECON program?
A: I would tell them that their time at Rice University will be one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of their life. The professional master's program at Rice goes beyond classroom learning—it allows you to network, grow, and apply what you've learned to real-world situations. The opportunity to engage in discussions with high-ranking political officials, leading academics, and industry leaders makes this program truly exceptional.
Q: What are three words you would use to describe your experience as a MEECON student at Rice?
A: Intense, challenging, exceptional.