Ph.D. student becomes Post-Doctoral Fellow, who becomes an Assistant Professor, who becomes an Associate Professor, who becomes a Professor, who becomes... well the list can continue. This is a typical thought trend of many who consider getting a Ph.D. while the reality is different. During this talk, we will discuss the theoretical perspective of life after graduate school and what reality looks like. In addition, this talk will highlight transitions in career paths and fields and how to overcome the stress. In conclusion, this talk will go through an overview of what matters and what doesn’t matter beyond the Ph.D.

Prior to joining CFC in 2017, Peter held several positions working for, and with electric cooperatives. Most recently, he served as the Chief Strategy Officer at Pedernales Electric Cooperative, the largest distribution electric cooperative in the U.S. Prior to that, he was an Advisor at the Cooperative Research Network, the technology research arm of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. He has previously launched several small businesses focused on energy analysis, bottom of the pyramid issues and poverty reduction through electricity access. He serves on boards and advisory committees, and is a sought after speaker both nationally and internationally.

Peter holds a Ph.D. in Applied Physics from the University of Michigan with a focus on energy.