Gabriel Alcaraz

Energy Consultant, Administración Nacional de Electricidad (Paraguay)

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

I currently serve as an independent energy consultant for Paraguay’s National Electricity Administration (ANDE). My day-to-day work is focused on coordinating the technical, social, environmental, financial, and regulatory requirements essential for the development of Paraguay’s first utility-scale solar photovoltaic power plant, along with strategic electrical infrastructure projects across the country. In addition to this technical implementation, I am helping to lay the regulatory and institutional foundations for the long-term growth of renewable energy. My role bridges the gap between high-level strategy and practical execution, ensuring that today’s milestones do not just advance current goals, but also shape a sustainable and resilient framework for the energy system of tomorrow.

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

My time at the University of Birmingham, specifically within the Global Energy Technologies and Systems program, required me to navigate the complexities of global energy transitions beyond just the technical scope. This experience was transformative; it instilled in me a profound sense of resilience, discipline, and a multisector perspective. I developed the ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, synthesizing diverse viewpoints to solve intricate problems. Today, these skills are the cornerstone of my work at ANDE. They allow me to effectively bridge the gap between technical requirements and regulatory strategy, leading to the successful development of Paraguay’s first utility-scale solar plant and the creation of a long-term sustainable energy framework.

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham?

The University of Birmingham was a major turning point in my career. The program introduced me to the latest energy concepts and helped me understand the vast scale of the global energy sector. My Master’s degree gave me a complete perspective, combining technical and strategic knowledge that is essential to understanding how the energy world works today. Since I graduated, my focus has been on learning through practice while making strategic decisions for my professional growth. I decided to take specialized courses in sustainable finance, project management, and risk management to gain the specific tools needed for large projects. I see the University as the pivotal link between global knowledge and practical application. It provided the spark that is now allowing me to lead the development of the first large-scale solar plant in my country.

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

I recommend that students bridge their academic excellence with a deep analysis of society’s current needs. The University of Birmingham offers a distinct advantage because its faculty is composed of specialists who truly understand this connection. Students should lean into that expertise. Today’s professional market is not just looking for technicians; it seeks committed, empathetic, and resilient leaders who understand that the world is in a constant search for solutions to both simple and complex problems. Regardless of your field of study, the priority is resource optimization and connectivity to drive efficiency. True employability comes from the discipline to identify these challenges and the courage to propose real improvements. Ultimately, organizations need proactive individuals who possess not only the knowledge but also the human quality and resilience to lead change in an interconnected and demanding environment.

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?

While I did not need to use these specific support services, my experience was incredibly positive. The academic rigor of the program and the accessibility of the faculty provided such a solid structure that I felt fully supported in both my professional and personal growth. For me, the true value was in the academic ecosystem itself, which gave me the confidence to navigate the challenges of the graduate market independently.

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

My fondest memories are found in the balance of quiet discipline and cultural discovery. I remember the crisp morning runs, followed by a hot coffee and the rewarding feeling of walking into the Main Library, knowing my only task that day was to learn something new. There is a unique fulfilment in being able to dedicate yourself entirely to intellectual growth. Beyond the study, it was the people who made my time at Birmingham truly exceptional. I was surrounded by friends from backgrounds and cultures entirely different from my own, which was an education in itself. To anyone considering Birmingham, I would say: go for it. It is more than just a degree; it is a chance to expand your worldview in an environment that rewards both personal reflection and global connection.

What extracurricular activities did you get involved in as a student?

During my time at Birmingham, I focused on regaining my physical balance. After several years away from training, I returned to the university gym. It is an impressive facility where I also spent a lot of time in the pool, working on my swimming skills, even as a beginner. My experiences outside the classroom were equally meaningful. I loved organizing trips and excursions; it filled me with energy because I would discover new places and capture great photos along the way. Back on campus, sharing meals from all over the world with my friends was the highlight of my social life. These moments were our way to have deep conversations about our future and life challenges. Birmingham was truly an entire lifetime condensed into a single year. It is an environment where you don’t just study, you build the friendships and the discipline that define your future.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

I chose the University of Birmingham for three main reasons. First, the University is ranked as one of the best in the world, which guaranteed the high quality of education I was looking for. Second, the MSc Global Energy Technologies and Systems program was unique; no other institution offered a curriculum that aligned so perfectly with my professional goals. Finally, the location was a major factor. I loved having a major city nearby with all the services I needed, while still enjoying the campus’s abundant green spaces. Birmingham is also perfectly situated in the heart of the UK, making it easy to travel to any other city. Furthermore, its international airport provided a seamless connection to the rest of the world. This balance of urban energy, central connectivity, and a dedicated academic environment made it the ideal place for my studies.