First-Gen. Grad and Energy Analytics Trailblazer

Meet Simran Singh, a fellow New Jersey resident hailing from Carteret, NJ, and a first-generation university graduate. Simran’s academic journey began at Wesleyan University for his Bachelor’s degree. He then continued his education at Rutgers University’s Public Informatics at Rutgers University (MPI) program, where he experienced a transformation that propelled him into a dream career in energy analytics.

Simran’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education. Recognizing a deep passion for energy policy and climate change mitigation, Simran embarked on a career shift from the world of financial services. The Public Informatics at Rutgers University provided the perfect platform for this transition.

Simran’s journey was not limited to the classroom. He actively engaged in research with Rutgers University Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy Professor Dr. Clint Andrews and the Rutgers Center for Green Building, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in energy policy research. Simran’s contributions to a study estimating solar technical potential in NJ for NJBPU underscored their dedication and expertise in the field.

What truly sets Simran’s journey apart is their ability to tailor their education to their interests and career aspirations. The flexibility built into the MPI program allowed Simran to coordinate research work and coursework seamlessly, building skills that are not just relevant but instrumental for a career in the energy sector. The MPI program, which offers a wide array of courses including Machine Learning, Data Visualization, Artificial Intelligence and Natural Language Processing Studios, equipped Simran with skills in advanced data science and domain-specific analytics. 

He says “I am grateful for the flexibility of the MPI program, which allowed me to coordinate my research work and coursework to build useful and relevant skills for a career in the energy sector. I was able to drive my education based on my interests and the career path I wanted to follow after graduation.”

Today, Simran is a shining example of how strategic education choices can lead to rewarding careers. He currently serves as an Energy Efficiency Program Evaluator at National Grid, where he continues to make strides in the energy sector, contributing to a more sustainable future. Simran’s story reminds us that education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about leveraging it to make a difference in the world. As we celebrate their journey, let’s reflect on how we too can harness the power of education to drive positive change in our chosen fields.