Engineering the Future: Meet the Innovators Who Make It Happen (Part 1)

Engineering innovation often happens behind the scenes, but during National Engineers Week, we’re bringing it to the forefront. At Resource Innovations, our engineers play a crucial role in enhancing grid reliability, improving energy efficiency, and delivering sustainable solutions. Their expertise powers progress, even if it’s not always in the spotlight. Today, we’re excited to introduce Carolina C. Colón Colón, an Energy Efficiency Engineer in Puerto Rico, who is helping shape the island’s first-ever energy efficiency rebate program. 

Meet Carolina: Driving Energy Solutions in Puerto Rico    

Q: Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to your current role? 

I hold a degree in Chemical Engineering, complemented by experience in Business Management. I recently graduated from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus, and now serve as an Energy Efficiency Engineer on the Puerto Rico team. While my academic background and my role may not seem directly connected at first, my passion for creating a more sustainable and efficient future has seamlessly bridged these fields. 

Q: How does your work contribute to RI’s success and future goals? 

As one of only two engineers on the Puerto Rico team, I’m proud of the impact we’re making. Our team is driving RI’s expansion into Puerto Rico, and we’re laying the foundation for the island’s first Energy Efficiency Rebate Program. It’s exciting to be part of such a groundbreaking initiative that will provide long-term benefits to businesses and residents alike. 

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of working behind the scenes on energy solutions? 

The most rewarding part is knowing that our work directly improves the lives of customers and strengthens the island’s energy infrastructure. Puerto Rico has faced significant energy challenges, and being part of a program that provides sustainable solutions fills me with pride. I believe this initiative will create lasting positive change for the community and future generations. 

Q: Can you share an example of a creative solution you’ve implemented? 

Since this program is brand new, we’ve faced both engineering and program development challenges. One creative approach has been integrating AI and programming tools to optimize our team’s efforts. Leveraging technology in this way has helped us streamline operations and improve efficiency as we build this program from the ground up. 

Q: What’s one project you’re especially proud of? 

I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve taken the Business Rebate Program in such a short time. Even though I’m relatively new to my role, I’ve seen tremendous growth and acceptance of the program. Each day, we make progress, and it’s rewarding to see businesses embracing energy efficiency as a key part of their operations. 

Q: What excites you about the future of energy? 

I’m excited about the potential of AI to revolutionize clean energy systems. Our work in Puerto Rico will serve as a key foundation for gathering the necessary data to integrate AI into energy solutions on the island. I believe this will help optimize grid management and improve sustainability efforts in the years to come. 

Q: If you had unlimited resources, what energy challenge would you solve? 

I would focus on ensuring a safe and reliable transition to renewable energy worldwide. Addressing climate change and resource depletion requires urgent action, and with unlimited resources, we could make the transition to clean energy systems more accessible, reliable, and widespread for all communities. 

Carolina’s work is just one example of how Resource Innovations’ engineers are making an impact behind the scenes. Whether optimizing programs, developing innovative solutions, or laying the foundation for clean energy advancements, their contributions are shaping a more efficient and sustainable energy future. 

Stay tuned for the next installments in our Engineering the Future series, where we continue to highlight engineers making an impact at Resource Innovations.