Elena Monterrosa: Discovering the Energy Sector — From Curiosity to Transformative Passion

 

My career in the energy sector, specifically in the field of renewable energy, began after I completed my time at the Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador (BCR). At that point, I was searching for new horizons. It was during this process, while applying for a position at a risk management company, that I came across an opportunity that would change my professional path: an internship with the SICREEE project (Regional Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency of the SICA countries).



Topics like renewable energy and sustainability had already begun to resonate with me. However, I didn’t know much about the project at the time, so I decided to research it further and discovered its international impact. I felt it was a real opportunity to contribute to meaningful change, so I took a leap and applied.



During the internship, I had the opportunity to learn about renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainability. One of the most challenging and enriching experiences was a masterclass on biogas held by experts from the Netherlands. Due to the time difference, the classes started at 1:00 a.m., but honestly, it wasn’t a bother — it was a challenge I gladly embraced. I was motivated to learn, because I understood the importance of conserving our resources and using them in a way that doesn’t harm the environment.

I also received training in energy efficiency based on the ISO 50001 standard, and I participated in virtual seminars on topics such as energy and gender. It was during this time that I discovered a new dimension of inequality — one that I had previously studied in economics but now could clearly see reflected in energy access and opportunities. This inspired me even more to get involved and contribute in my own way.

Thanks to the people that I worked with, I received guidance and mentorship that helped me grow both professionally and personally. I also joined the GWNET mentoring program, where I connected with other women leaders in the sector and received valuable advice to continue building my career.



Over time, I moved into a technical assistance role within the project, which led to an unforgettable experience: traveling to Vienna, Austria, to participate in events and workshops at one of the United Nations headquarters. It was the first time I had attended an international event of this kind, and it was truly a turning point in my life. Listening firsthand the projects and visions of people from different regions of the world inspired me deeply. I realized that I shouldn’t set limits for myself — that I could dream big and give even more of myself.

I returned from that trip with a strong determination to keep learning. I worked on my first project proposal, and although I had many hardships and sleepless nights, I was excited by the thought that this work could become something real — something capable of changing the world. That passion has not faded.

Today, I am working in academia and pursuing a master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence. My research is focused on the use of AI agents and energy consumption from a sustainability perspective. This is a field with great potential in the regions of  Ibero-America, where it is still underdeveloped. My goal is to raise awareness, to help others understand the importance and transformative power of this topic, always within the framework of renewable energy and environmental care.



In the future, I hope to carry out international research on sustainability and renewable energy and eventually pursue a PhD in Germany focused on renewable energy and public policy. My goal is clear: to continue preparing myself so I can return to what I love most — supporting and transforming the world through projects that create real impact.



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