At the Climate Knowledge Initiative (CKI) I researched sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) as part of a comprehensive aviation decarbonisation project. I focused on HEFA‑based fuels and e‑kerosene, analysing production pathways, consumption trends, and the impact of mandates and tax incentives. I assessed the cost trajectories of these fuels relative to conventional kerosene and compiled data from disparate sources to produce clear, data‑driven presentations for policymakers and industry leaders. This work supported CKI’s mission to advance climate solutions by translating rigorous research into insights that guide policy and investment decisions.

The fellowship allowed me to apply and expand my Columbia MBA skills in strategy, data analysis, and market evaluation. I structured complex technical and policy research into frameworks and visuals that were accessible to decision makers. My consulting background helped me evaluate SAF production forecasts, regional mandates, and cost reduction drivers. I synthesised information from IEA, ICCT, ICAO, and other sources to create narratives that support both policy debates and business strategy.

Navigating inconsistent data was a challenge. Different organisations reported vastly different figures, making it difficult to construct a single narrative. Balancing technical depth with accessibility for non‑technical audiences also required careful judgement. Many projections involved significant uncertainties due to evolving mandates and learning curves; I learned to present ranges rather than definitive forecasts and to be transparent about assumptions.

This project reinforced my belief that policy design is critical to scaling SAF. I gained deeper knowledge of aviation decarbonisation and improved my ability to communicate highly technical material to varied stakeholders. The experience confirmed my passion for working at the intersection of technology, strategy, and climate and motivated me to pursue roles that involve cross‑sector collaboration on complex challenges.