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How can I get a jump start on my career in the energy management business as a college freshman?

It would be greatly appreciated if someone could let me know of any programs or opportunities that I should taking advantage of before I graduate college? I am not sure when I should begin to reach out to companies about internships since I am so early into my college years so any advice in this area would be great also.

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Job’s Answer

My advice is to get an internship, even if does pay. Make sure you make it clear that the internship is in the field you want to work in. You may start in a lesser position, but you can move up food chain as you are learning each position. You will not get an internship as a energy trader. At 22 I was the youngest broker on the floor of the New York stock exchange, it took me almost 2 years to go from a clerk on the stock exchange to a broker. I had to take a difficult test, lie detector test, and heavy background check. The company I worked for moved me up the food chain because I mastered each step in the trade business.
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Jennifer’s Answer

Begin with networking in the field. Reach out to all of your contacts to see if they have a contact whom they'd be willing to make an introduction. Ask the energy management contact for an informational interview. Be prepared to ask them about their career journey, their company, advice they might give you to get started. This builds your network for possible opportunities. If you are able to do so, offer time to shadow the energy management contact.
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Adeel’s Answer

Hi Rafael

I can hopefully help with this!

I have a nephew who's currently 19 and a little lost about his next educational steps. When it comes to jump starting your chosen career whilst you're studying, I think you've already answered the question yourself.

It's never too early to start reaching out to companies, outline a little about yourself, who you are, what you're studying etc. and asking about any intern opportunities. If anything, this'll show how keen you are to be in the industry.

The one thing I will say is be mindful of how much it could mean to take on - full time education and an internship will be very demanding and you might find it a struggle to do both at the same time.

I do hope this helps though and good luck!
Adeel
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Ibrahim’s Answer

Hey! It’s awesome that you’re already thinking ahead — starting early is one of the smartest things you can do to get into the energy management field. There’s a lot of opportunity in this space, especially with the world shifting toward sustainability and smarter energy use.

Here’s how you can get a solid jump start:

⚡ 1. Understand the Industry Early
Energy management covers a lot — from smart building systems and HVAC to renewables, data analytics, and even policy. Try to get a basic understanding of:

Energy efficiency systems

Building automation (like HVAC, BMS, etc.)

Renewable energy tech

Energy software & analytics platforms

Look into free resources or beginner courses on Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or even YouTube.

📚 2. Take the Right Classes
As you plan your schedule, make sure to include:

Intro to Sustainability or Environmental Science

Engineering or Energy Systems (if available)

Business or Economics courses (important for the management side)

Any data/tech courses (Python, Excel, energy modeling tools, etc.)

Don’t worry if your college doesn’t offer “Energy Management” as a major — you can still build a great foundation by mixing the right subjects.

🧑‍🔧 3. Start Looking for Opportunities Now
You don’t need to wait until junior year to get experience! Try:

Summer programs or fellowships – Look up ones like:

U.S. Department of Energy’s STEM internships

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) programs

Campus sustainability groups – Many universities have energy clubs or “green teams” you can join.

Volunteering with local energy nonprofits or utility programs

These don’t have to be paid — at this stage, any hands-on experience is super valuable.

💼 4. When Should You Start Reaching Out for Internships?
Honestly? Start networking now — not necessarily applying for internships yet, but:

Connect with alumni or professionals on LinkedIn.

Attend career fairs, even as a freshman — it shows initiative.

Ask questions, show your interest, and make connections early. That way, by sophomore year, you’ll already be on their radar.

By sophomore summer, you should definitely start applying for energy-related internships or research assistant roles.

🗣️ 5. Bonus Tip: Talk to Professors & Advisors
Many students skip this step, but your professors (especially in environmental science, engineering, or business departments) might have:

Research projects you can help on

Industry connections

Advice about certifications (like LEED, CEM, or BPI)

✅ Final Word
The fact that you're asking this now puts you miles ahead of most people. If you stay curious, take initiative, and get even a little bit of experience each year, by the time you graduate, you'll be a strong candidate with direction, skills, and a network.

You’ve got this! And if you ever want help building a resume, crafting a LinkedIn profile, or finding programs — happy to help.
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