Date: November 19, 2024
The Energy Club hosted an engaging networking event featuring GE Vernova, where attendees explored career opportunities, industry insights, and cutting-edge initiatives driving the future of energy.
Event Highlights
GE Vernova, one of three companies formed from GE’s split, showcased its commitment to decarbonization through innovative projects and career development opportunities. Attendees learned about:
- Rotational Development Programs: Tailored for recent graduates to jumpstart their careers.
- Internship & Co-Op Opportunities: Openings for the next generation of energy leaders.
- Future Prospects: Positions opening in January 2025, with applications for the 2025 term closing soon.
Panel Discussion
The event featured an impressive panel of GE Vernova professionals:
- Clayton Greer
- Brendan Hudgins
- Stephanie Queen
- Jessel McConniee
- Claire Zito
The panel addressed pivotal questions about their roles and how they align with GE Vernova’s mission of decarbonization. Here are some of the key takeaways:
Claire Zito shared details about GE Vernova’s groundbreaking software, CERius™, designed to accurately estimate carbon emissions. Unlike current models, CERius™ uses advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning to leverage precise device specifications. Starting with gas turbines, CERius™ enables companies to gather actionable data to meet decarbonization goals.
Jessel McConniee emphasized the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and expressed optimism about the industry’s collective efforts to decarbonize the energy grid.
Stephanie Queen explored the design and market strategy behind decarbonization. She highlighted the research on hydrogen as a carbon-free energy source and the role of government policies in shaping the energy market, citing Germany’s recent push to integrate hydrogen into pipelines.
Brendan Hudgins discussed his experience in the Edison Development Program, highlighting a project focused on root cause analysis of temperature inefficiencies in turbine components.
Memorable Projects
When asked about their favorite projects, the panelists shared inspiring stories:
- Brendan: Collaborated across teams to analyze and address temperature issues in turbine components during his first rotation.
- Claire: Focused on re-engaging employees and customers by aligning projects with GE Vernova’s larger vision.
- Jessel: Recounted a powerful moment when he shut down wind turbines along the Poland-Ukraine border to ensure the safety of refugees.
- Stephanie: Shared her love for data analytics and how she used real-world data to bring a new technology project to life.
Career Journeys
The panelists also reflected on how they found their way to GE Vernova:
- Brendan connected with the company during a college career fair, inspired by his passion for energy and environmental studies.
- Claire credited a professor who encouraged her to pursue work with sustainable goals, sparking her dedication to the energy sector.
- Jessel transitioned from the paper industry, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in energy, a field he was familiar with through his father’s career.
- Stephanie shared how childhood visits to plant sites with her dad influenced her career path, leading her to GE Vernova and a role focused on exploring emerging technologies.
Final Thoughts
This event provided students and professionals with invaluable insights into GE Vernova’s innovative work and the dynamic opportunities within the energy industry. Whether through groundbreaking technologies like CERius™ or the personal journeys of its team members, GE Vernova is at the forefront of shaping a sustainable future.
Keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities and events as we continue to connect students with leaders driving the energy transition.