Media Type: Video

UT Energy Week Part 3: What’s Next in Energy Wrapping up our UT Energy Week series, we’re looking ahead at where energy is going next. This episode focuses on innovation, new technology, and the changing landscape of how energy is produced and delivered. We sit down with Matthew McCullen of Aalo to talk about their advanced nuclear XMR reactors happening right here in Texas, then hear from Amy Ashley of Austin Energy on EV infrastructure and community involvement. We also chat with UT Energy Institute Energy Reporter in Residence, Andy Uhler to zoom out and talk about how these stories are being told, and what people should really be paying attention to. If you’re curious about where the energy industry is headed and what’s coming next, this is the episode to close it out.

We’re back at UT Energy Week, and this episode is all about the people in the trenches making energy happen every day. From upstream operations to power markets and industry advocacy, this conversation dives into how the system actually runs. We sit down with Michael DeShazer of Coterra Energy to talk about what’s happening on the production side, then hear from Randa Stephenson of the Lower Colorado River Authority on managing power in one of the most dynamic grids in the country. We also chat with Jennifer Marsteller of the Independent Petroleum Association of America on the role of advocacy in today’s energy landscape, and Andrew W. Smith of Gulf Coast Strategic Partners to break down strategy, deals, and where the industry is moving.

When Liberal Arts Government major Luke Ramcharita attended a KBH Energy Center talk, he was inspired by a speaker who shared her journey from working at the Texas Capitol to becoming an energy policy advocate. For Luke, who also interns at the Capitol, her story was a reminder that the energy industry isn’t just for STEM majors — it’s a space where liberal arts, government, and international relations students can make a real impact. The KBH Energy Center continues to show students how a range of different perspectives drive the future of energy and policy in Texas and beyond.

Why do industry partners matter for our students? John Butler, our McCombs School of Business Academic Director, explains that industry partners play a vital role in keeping our curriculum aligned with the latest trends and innovations, ensuring that course content remains both timely and relevant. Just as importantly, they engage directly with our students, sharing real-world perspectives and serving as mentors, role models, and leaders. By bringing these insights into the classroom, industry partners help prepare students not only for the challenges of today but also for the opportunities that lie ahead in the energy industry.

Meet Bhavik Menon, our Student Advisory At Large Co-Chair! Bhavik is an Economics and Plan II Honors major at The University of Texas at Austin, with aspirations to become an International Energy Litigator. He believes the KBH Energy Center stands out because it embraces the multidisciplinary nature of energy – bringing together @utexasmccombs @txgeosciences @utexaslaw @cockrellschool and many other UT Colleges and communities under one roof. People come from all industries and walks of life, bringing their unique experiences into a melting pot of energy. “It doesn’t matter who you are, where you came from or what you want to do in life — if you come to the KBH Energy Center, you’ll realize that you can do what you want through energy.” We’re proud to foster a space where students and professionals collaborate, innovate, and shape the future of energy together.

Xanne Joppe, a Petroleum Engineering major in the Class of 2026 and a member of our Student Advisory Council, has embraced new opportunities through the KBH Energy Center. She’s expanded her horizons by exploring different sectors within the energy industry and connecting with students from a variety of majors — all working together to tackle the energy challenges of the future. These experiences have also helped Xanne stand out to recruiters, leading to her first internship this past summer. Her journey highlights how KBH Energy Center empowers students to build meaningful networks and launch impactful careers in energy.

Claire Cantrell graduated from the McCombs School of Business in 2025 as a Finance major and is now serving on our Associate Advisory Council. She currently works as a Financial Analyst at @weareoxy, applying her skills and energy industry experience to make an impact in the field. When reflecting on her time at @utaustintx, Claire shares that the all-encompassing idea of the KBH Energy Center is truly unique. From mentorship programs and the Energy Studies Minor, to industry speaker series and networking events with professionals and students alike, the KBH Energy Center gave Claire opportunities that helped shape her path. We’re proud to have Claire as part of our growing community of energy leaders.

Our Student Advisory Council At-Large Co-Chair, Megan Thrutchley, is a Junior studying Government and Genocide Studies. This past summer, she also took our Energy Studies Minor and discovered it’s more than just classroom learning – it’s hands-on experience. From connecting with industry professionals who helped polish her résumé to shadowing a landman (her dream career!), Megan got a real glimpse into her future. “It’s not just learning valuable information… it’s seeing what will these concepts tangibly look like when I graduate?”

We’re live at UT Energy Week brought to you by the UT Energy Institute and the Kay Bailey Hutchison Energy Center. We sit down with Kay Bailey Hutchison for a high-level perspective on energy leadership and the work happening at the KBH Energy Center. Then, Rudy Garza shares what it takes to keep one of the largest municipal utilities in the country running at CPS Energy. We also explore the future of nuclear and real SMR deployment in Ontario with Jason Cooper of GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy. To close it out, Brittany Kelm, Senior Policy Advisor at the National Energy Dominance Council, brings insight straight from the federal level. If you want a pulse check on energy policy, grid reliability, and next-gen power solutions, this is the episode for you. Featuring Kay Bailey Hutchinson, Former US Senator Rudy Garza, CEO CPS Energy Jason Cooper, CEO GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy Brittany Kelm, Senior Policy Advisor, The White House

Relive our Spring Student Summit from April 10! Students heard invaluable career advice from senior energy leaders, including Brittany Kelm, White House Senior Policy Advisor, National Energy Dominance Council, who shared insights on building a career in one of the world’s most dynamic industries. Attendees also gained a front-row view into the issues shaping Texas and U.S. energy today. Morgan Johnson, Commissioner with the Public Utility Commission of Texas, spoke about how thoughtful policy and regulation can create real change for everyday Texans. From public service to private industry, the message was clear: the future of energy will be built by the next generation of leaders. Hook ’em!