Chandra Her,
Bachelor of Science, Sustainable Systems Management, 2020
Why did you choose SSM?
I chose this program while attending UMN because I was interested in understanding the intersection between business and sustainability through a systems lens. My long-time best friend, Gratias Sessou, introduced me to the SSM program and helped kick-start my sustainability interests to pursue an education and career centered around caring for the future of the environment!
Where do you work and what is your job title?
I currently work at Clean Energy Economy Minnesota (CEEM) as a Policy Associate. CEEM is an industry-led, nonpartisan, non-profit organization representing the business voice of energy efficiency and clean energy in Minnesota. We work to educate Minnesotans about the economic benefits of transitioning to a clean energy economy and are committed to delivering a 100% clean energy future where all Minnesota businesses and citizens will thrive. Our business membership is comprised of nearly 50 clean energy companies ranging from start-up businesses to Fortune 100 and 500 corporations that employ tens of thousands of Minnesotans across the state.
In my position, I monitor and analyze clean energy policy developments at the state (MN Legislature), federal, and regulatory level, educate policy makers and the public on clean energy and energy efficiency, and share policy news via monthly newsletters and legislative updates.
What does your typical day look like in your role?
No day is ever the same in my role, however, a typical week during the legislature is filled with writing letters of support and testimony for bills at committee hearings, meeting with business members, legislators, stakeholders, and other organizations on clean energy policy, and attending clean energy related events and conferences.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
My favorite and most enjoyable part about my work is working on impactful clean energy policy that will benefit the future of the environment, the health of the people, and bolster the economy for generations to come.
How has your education in SSM influenced your life and career?
My undergraduate education at UMN within SSM prepared me with the skills I needed for my Master's program, which I pursued immediately after graduation. My undergrad education also specifically helped me narrow down what topics I was actually interested in, and what career field I wanted to follow after. Moreover, as broad as the SSM program is, it also helped me to see how I can make it applicable to practically any industry. After graduation, I was a Master's student at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs in the Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy program. I graduated from the program in 2022. Much of my experience in the graduate program was research based. In my first year, I was a graduate research assistant for Dr. Gabe Chan's CHAN Lab where I researched topics related to energy assistance programs, energy insecurity/injustices, and energy efficiency. In my second year, I was a graduate research fellow with Hennepin County's Environment and Energy Department in the Waste Reduction and Recycling Unit focusing on topics such as food waste, plastic waste, anaerobic digestion, and organics recycling. While in my Master's program, I had the opportunity to attend COP26 in Scotland. This experience was a full circle moment for me because I had only ever heard about the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in the classroom.
What is one of your proudest professional or personal accomplishments that occurred after graduating from SSM?
Professionally, I am most proud of all the classes and programs I took in my undergraduate education. The topics I learned in the SSM program readily prepared me for my graduate studies and allowed me to share, articulate, and expand on my knowledge.
Personally, I am most proud of the changes I’ve made in my lifestyle to be more green. Being around colleagues who also care about the environment has taught me to implement new changes and to influence others around me.
What advice do you have for current or future students interested in pursuing a similar career in your field?
My advice to students would be to pursue experiences that will enrich your undergrad experience as you are able to and can afford to. In my college experience, I have traveled to Germany and Thailand, attended COP in Scotland, installed solar panels in San Diego County, and completed local sustainability-related extracurriculars. I've been able to relate these experiences back to the classroom and my work experiences and it has also made a profound impact on how I view the world.
Is there anything else you would like to share with our SSM/BBE community?
My experience during and after the U has been constantly rewarding. I am so grateful for all the opportunities I get to share my experiences and connect with passionately driven students. The University of Minnesota makes the best changemakers!