During the summer of 2024, I had the opporturtunity to take part in a 10-week program as a Market Analysis and Validation Engineering Intern at the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. (ERCOT). During my time at ERCOT I analyzed large, complex datasets and extracted meaning insights from that data. My role consisted of condensing said data into a more appropriate size using Python, and then graphing that data using a Python graphing package called Ploty. I then created a webapp dashboard where I hosted my graphs and findings. To accomplish this I used the Python framework Streamlit. In addition to this project, I took on a side project, investigating potential frameworks for the redesign of one of ERCOT's business intelligence tools. During this project I investigated Django, a robust Python framework that allows for efficient and clean web design. Finally, at the end of my internship I presented both of my projects to C-level executives.

There were many things I learned at ERCOT that I plan to take with me as a continue to grow as an engineer and software developer. Given the industry ERCOT is in, I learned much more about the energy market and how energy actually gets from the plant to your door. I also learned the importance of proper code documentation during my time at ERCOT. Since I was the only member working on my project, it was important that I properly document my code so that my team could properly use my tool after my internship ended. ERCOT also gave me exposure to data analytics and data visualization, two areas I have had very little experience with in school.