Engineering the Future: Avangrid’s Commitment to Innovation and Progress
National Engineers Week, founded by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) in 1951, is dedicated to ensuring a diverse and well-educated future engineering workforce by increasing understanding of and interest in engineering and technology careers. Taking place from February 16–22, 2025, Engineers Week celebrates the vital role engineers play in shaping our world.
We’re not just powering homes and businesses—we’re pioneering the future of energy. Every day, from Portland, Oregon to Portland, Maine, our engineers are solving complex challenges, optimizing infrastructure, and driving innovations that will lead us toward a smarter, more resilient energy future. As we celebrate National Engineers Week, we recognize the critical role engineers play in shaping our industry and advancing solutions that benefit our communities and customers.
“Engineers will play the most important part of worldwide growth and development,” said Fred Schiavi, a lead commercial and industrial energy engineer at Avangrid. “Engineers will be tasked with managing the increasing and never-ending demand for energy and energy efficiency.”
The Impact of Engineers at Avangrid
As the energy sector undergoes a massive transformation—driven by increased demand, cyber threats, grid modernization, and more—Avangrid’s engineering teams are leading the charge in building a smarter, more sustainable energy system. Engineers across our operating companies, including both electric and gas companies and renewables, are instrumental in developing innovative solutions that ensure reliability for generations to come.
Engineer Your Future: Engineering Roles at Avangrid
Avangrid engineers are creating a better future through expertise in multiple disciplines:
- Electrical Engineers – Spearheading the development of advanced transmission and distribution systems to create a more intelligent, resilient grid.
- Mechanical Engineers – Enhancing the efficiency of power generation, from wind farms to hydroelectric plants, to maximize clean energy potential.
- Civil Engineers – Designing and maintaining critical infrastructure that supports the safe and reliable delivery of energy.
- Energy Engineers – Driving conservation and efficiency programs to optimize energy use for businesses and communities.
- Cybersecurity & IT Engineers – Safeguarding the energy grid with state-of-the-art digital solutions that protect against evolving cyber threats.
Engineering in Action: Meet Our Innovators
Our engineers are visionaries and problem-solvers dedicated to creating meaningful change. Here are just a few of the brilliant minds shaping the future at Avangrid:
- Fred Schiavi, Lead Commercial and Industrial Energy Engineer – With a background in manufacturing, Fred transitioned into energy engineering to help businesses enhance energy efficiency.
- David Nizzardo, Associate Engineer (Engineering Development Program) – A participant in Avangrid’s rotational program, David has gained hands-on experience in gas technical services, system planning, and cyber assurance.
“I enjoy the problem-solving of everyday tasks as well as finding efficiencies to make routine tasks easier for myself and those around me.” - Ben Shepard, Director of CMP’s Line Projects – Overseeing major transmission upgrades to strengthen the grid and support the transition to clean energy.
“It all started when I was growing up playing with Legos. I even had an entire Lego city built in my basement when I was a child.” - MeeNa Sazanowicz, Lines Principal Engineer – Focused on high-voltage transmission projects that modernize the grid and prepare for increased electrification.
“I find the most rewarding part of being an engineer is finding solutions as a team to be able to execute a project that solves a need. Every day is a learning experience that keeps you engaged and on your toes.” - Lourdes Lopez, Unit Manager for Customer Funded Projects – Leading initiatives that integrate renewable energy projects into the grid and enhance sustainability efforts.
“I’ve always been fascinated by the potential of engineering to solve complex problems and drive innovation. Additionally, the idea of contributing to advances in technology and improving people’s lives through engineering initiatives pushed me to pursue this career.”
Engineering for a Better Tomorrow
Our engineers are shaping the future of energy, transforming the way energy is generated, delivered, and consumed. Through initiatives such as our Engineering Development Program (EDP), we are nurturing the next generation of engineers, empowering them to become leaders in energy innovation.
The future of energy depends on bold ideas and forward-thinking solutions. Engineers at Avangrid are not only optimizing today’s grid but also laying the groundwork for a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient energy landscape.
“With electricity being a critical necessity now more than ever, one of the most rewarding aspects of the job is knowing that the work we do keeps communities powered,” said Toussaint Lohomboli, an Associate Engineer and part of Avangrid’s Local Rotational Graduate Program. “Contributing, even in a small way to the development of infrastructure, technology or products that improve people’s lives provides a great sense of purpose.”
Be a part of this transformation. Are you ready to design your future? Explore careers at Avangrid and join us in engineering a brighter tomorrow.
