During my summer internship at the San Francisco Department of Environment, I contributed to projects aligned with the city’s mission to promote clean transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, I worked on the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, a key initiative that supports the city’s goal of increasing EV adoption and creating a sustainable transportation network. My role involved managing several projects aimed at expanding EV infrastructure and gathering data on charging station utilization. This work directly supported the department’s broader mission of creating a cleaner, more resilient city by fostering zero-emission transportation options.

In addition to supporting the deployment of EV charging stations, I also led an e-bike delivery pilot program aimed at reducing vehicle miles traveled in congested areas. This initiative explored the potential for shifting short-distance delivery tasks from cars to e-bikes, thereby cutting emissions, easing traffic, and improving delivery efficiency. By engaging with multiple stakeholders — including government agencies, private companies, and community groups — I gained a clear understanding of how public policy can drive environmental sustainability.

Throughout the internship, I was able to apply skills from my MBA, particularly in project management, data analysis, and stakeholder communication. My experience in consulting and previous school projects at Columbia Business School (CBS) equipped me to handle complex tasks like tracking progress across various initiatives and ensuring alignment between city departments and private partners. My coursework in finance was helpful in analyzing the cost-benefit scenarios for different EV charging deployment strategies. I also applied my data analysis skills by evaluating charging station utilization rates and comparing public versus private charging infrastructure across major California cities. These analyses were crucial for making informed recommendations to the city’s clean transportation team. Additionally, the leadership and communication skills I developed in my MBA were valuable as I navigated different perspectives and interests to ensure that all stakeholders were aligned toward the city’s environmental goals.

One of the most significant challenges I encountered during my internship was balancing the diverse interests of various stakeholders involved in the EV charging deployment initiative. Different groups — from private sector partners to local government bodies — had varying priorities and expectations, which occasionally led to conflicts or delays in decision-making. For instance, private companies were often focused on the profitability and scalability of EV charging networks, while the city emphasized equitable access and environmental benefits. Navigating these conflicting interests required strong negotiation and communication skills to ensure all parties remained committed to the broader project goals. Another challenge was the complexity of the regulatory environment surrounding EV infrastructure, which involved understanding and navigating city, state, and federal policies. Additionally, collecting and analyzing data on charging station usage presented hurdles due to gaps in data availability and inconsistencies across platforms. Overcoming these challenges required adaptability, as I frequently adjusted timelines, revisited assumptions, and collaborated with technical experts to find solutions.

This internship provided me with invaluable insights into the intersection of public policy, environmental sustainability, and urban infrastructure development. One key takeaway is the importance of stakeholder alignment when managing large-scale environmental projects; even the best ideas can face significant delays if all parties are not fully engaged and committed. I also learned how vital clear, data-driven communication is when presenting recommendations to diverse audiences. Another takeaway is the role that public policy can play in accelerating the adoption of sustainable technologies — an area I am passionate about, especially in the climate tech sector. The experience reinforced my interest in pursuing a career focused on clean energy and sustainable transportation, and it gave me a deeper understanding of how cities can serve as incubators for climate innovation. Overall, this internship has strengthened my resolve to continue working in the climate space, particularly in roles that bridge the gap between technology, policy, and sustainability.