Undergrads Plug Into Energy Grids and Markets at Interactive Bootcamp

Dartmouth undergraduates recently explored the complexities of the U.S. energy system during an immersive "Electricity Grids & Markets Bootcamp." Held on Friday, November 7th, and Saturday, November 8th, the workshop provided students of all majors with a hands-on exploration of electricity markets, regulatory frameworks, and the critical role of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

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The bootcamp, designed as an interactive introduction to the U.S. energy system with leading experts, featured a dynamic blend of lectures, interactive activities, games, and networking opportunities. Participants gained a clearer understanding of how companies navigate regulations, engage in simulations, and manage the intricate challenges of the electricity grid.

Instructors Jay Matson '91, Deputy Director of the Division of Investigations in the Office of Enforcement at FERC, and Rimvydas Baltaduonis, a Lecturer at Stanford University and Associate Professor of Economics at Gettysburg College, guided students through the program. Their expertise provided a strong foundation for the deep dive into the energy sector.

Students praised the bootcamp's engaging and practical approach. Thomas Ziolkowski '29, commented, "I had no knowledge coming in regarding electricity markets—no idea about how the grids work. The exercises help you understand how electricity flows and the business behind it." Hannah Araiza-Rojas '29 echoed this sentiment, stating, "The exercises helped us to visualize a very complex system of the U.S. grid and gave us an intuitive understanding of how it actually works."

The use of interactive games was a highlight, allowing students to act as energy providers and react to real-world scenarios. Meena Tate '27 found the introduction especially helpful: "The grounding in elementary levels is really valuable. Application makes it easier to learn and less abstract. We worked through problems in the game. It gave us an understanding of the macrosystem." Hannah further elaborated on the impact of the simulations, noting, "We learned how to react with actual events through a game. We could actually respond to [how] increasing the capacity of wind or hydro could be implemented in real life."

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The format really facilitated learning. Meena shared, "I wasn't expecting it to be so engaging and fun," a sentiment reinforced by Thomas who added, "The instructors have made it so effective by making it fun."

Beyond the technical learning, the bootcamp also served as a valuable networking opportunity. Many students, like Meena, used the experience to gauge their interest in the field: "I was interested in the MET (Master of Energy Transition) so I signed up for the bootcamp... This is a great gauge to see if I'm interested in MET." The Dartmouth connection was also meaningful to students, as Hannah observed, "It's cool that Jay is an alum. He went to Dartmouth. The intergenerational connection is very alive." The instructors encouraged students to reach out with questions about research and career insights within the energy industry, fostering a supportive environment for professional growth.

The Electricity Grids & Markets Bootcamp illuminated a vital sector of U.S. infrastructure, and inspired some Dartmouth students to explore new academic and career interests within the energy sector.