Embarking on my journey as a Policy Analyst has been a fascinating experience, filled with challenges, growth, and deep insights into the world of energy policy. After graduating from Smith College with a degree in Quantitative Economics and Government, I was excited to explore policies that improve energy access and affordability for low-income communities – something I’ve always been passionate about.

Central to my role as a Policy Analyst has been the evaluation of low-income energy efficiency programs. This role has given me a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of economic principles, governmental policies, and environmental imperatives. My first major project at APPRISE was evaluating a gas utility’s low-income energy bill payment assistance program. I analyzed participant and program data and conducted surveys, which helped me see the positive impact of these programs firsthand. Hearing from people about how much the program has helped them was incredibly rewarding and reinforced the importance of our work.

The responsibilities of my role have highlighted the importance of careful data analysis, clear writing, and good communication skills, especially when working with different stakeholders like program participants and contractors. For example, working on projects including a low-income energy efficiency program evaluation involved not only analyzing energy usage data to assess program effectiveness but also communicating findings in clear, concise reports for diverse audiences. Additionally, interviewing contractors who provide services for a small business energy efficiency program allowed me to gain firsthand knowledge of the practical challenges and successes in implementing energy efficiency measures. These interactions provided a deeper understanding of the on-the-ground realities and helped me appreciate the collaborative efforts required to drive energy efficiency improvements.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been the collaborative environment at APPRISE. I’ve been lucky to work with supportive colleagues who have provided valuable guidance. As I delved into projects, Senior Policy Analysts and the Project Director were always available to answer my questions, and Jackie was a constant source of direction. This supportive atmosphere has helped me navigate the challenges of my role with resilience. The open-door policy and willingness to share knowledge created a nurturing environment where I felt encouraged to ask questions and seek feedback, fostering both my professional and personal growth.

The learning curve at APPRISE has been steep but incredibly rewarding. One area I’ve found particularly interesting is building science, the study of optimizing building performance for energy efficiency. This has helped me understand the complex relationship between buildings and energy systems. My knowledge of HVAC systems, especially heat pumps, has grown significantly, driven by a desire to understand their efficiency and potential to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Through various projects, I’ve learned that measures like air sealing and insulation are some of the most effective ways to reduce energy usage in homes. These insights have improved my analytical skills and given me a practical perspective on energy-saving measures.

As a Policy Analyst, it’s crucial to stay curious and think critically. This mindset has helped me challenge assumptions and explore different perspectives on energy challenges. Each setback has been an opportunity to learn and improve, highlighting the importance of mistakes in the learning process. The energy sector is dynamic and full of opportunities for meaningful impact. I look forward to continuing to use my skills and passion to contribute to energy policy and sustainability discussions.