Diego Chandia

Energy Transition Project Manager, Worley

Tell us about your current job. Describe what you do on a typical day. 

I work as a Project Manager in the Low Carbon Energy division at Worley. In this role I support clients in advancing energy transition projects from concept to commissioning across engineering, procurement, and construction phases. Our typical projects are low carbon ammonia and copper mining electrification. A typical day revolves around delivering projects on time and to a high standard. I coordinate across engineering disciplines to ensure we are progressing according to schedule and help resolve any unforeseen design challenges. I also dedicate part of my time to business development, connecting with potential clients through industry events, meetings, and conferences.

What were the best things about your course?

I really appreciated how the degree was structured. The one-week intensive modules, preceded by self-study, allowed for focused learning. After each module, having three to four weeks to submit a report gave us enough time to explore topics in depth and develop our own areas of interest.

How do you feel your degree helped you get a job after graduation?

My first job after graduation was with the United Nations Environment Programme, where I worked as a Hydrogen Consultant. Having a degree in Energy Technologies and Systems, along with several modules focused on hydrogen, made me a strong fit for the role.

What skills from your degree do you think you use most in your current job?

The transition to low-carbon energy requires a comprehensive approach to projects. We are moving away from a “one-size-fits-all” fossil-fuel system toward complex, integrated energy solutions. The MSc provided me with the technical foundation to help design tailored energy strategies for each client.

Did you need to take additional training on top of your degree?

Before enrolling in the MSc in Global Energy Technologies and Systems, I had around nine years of professional experience, though not directly in the energy sector. At that point I was going through a career transition and wanted to move into a field where I felt I could contribute positively to society. I combined my previous professional experience with the MSc to reposition myself in the energy transition space. The shift worked well: I first joined the United Nations Environment Programme as a consultant and, a year later, moved into my current role as a Project Manager at Worley. I’m excited about what comes next in this fast-growing sector.

What advice would you give to current students studying on your degree programme?

You are entering what is likely to be one of the most important investment sectors over the next three to five decades. Stay curious, stay hungry, and take advantage of every opportunity to learn and connect with the industry.

What would you recommend students should do at university, over and above their academic study, to make them more employable in the graduate market?

A postgraduate year gives you the freedom to decide how you spend your time. Develop a side project you can talk about in job interviews, something that shows initiative, curiosity, and real-world application of what you are learning.

Did you take advantage of support services offered by the University, for example Careers Network and Wellbeing, and if so, what impact did they have on you?

The Careers Network helped me improve my CV and I think it made the difference. Thanks!

What are your fondest memories of the University and what would you say to anyone currently considering studying at Birmingham?

The University brings people from all over the globe. I had the privilege of living with incredibly friendly people whom I now call close friends. The University’s facilities are outstanding, including the sports centre, library, and campus environment. You spend most of your time on campus, and having access to such modern facilities really enhances the overall experience.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

When selecting a university, I reviewed the programmes of several institutions. The University of Birmingham stood out for having a distinctive curriculum focused on cutting-edge topics in the energy transition. Because of that alignment with what I was looking for, I decided to apply only to Birmingham.