December 23, 2024
Sneha Vasudevan, who grew up in Chennai, India, and now lives in the Bay Area, earned her Master’s in Applied Data Science (formerly the Master’s in Analytics) in 2022. She is a Lead Technical Project Manager at Uplight, a technology company that “enables energy providers, ecosystem partners, and consumers to conserve, deploy, manage, and monetize energy resources.” We interviewed Sneha about her experiences at UChicago and her career path since.
Why did you choose the University of Chicago?
I chose UChicago because of its rigorous academic environment, strong reputation, and intellectual culture. Above all, I chose it because of the opportunity to learn alongside people from all over the world. I knew the diverse student body would give me perspectives I couldn’t get anywhere else.
What was your primary area of study while at UChicago?
I studied Data Analytics at UChicago. The program taught me how to draw actionable insights from complex data, which has been invaluable in my career.
Please describe your current job and your career path leading up to this point.
I’m currently a Lead Technical Project Manager at Uplight, where I manage Virtual Power Plant (VPP) and Demand Response programs essential for modernizing our power grid. My team works on integrating distributed energy resources like electric vehicles, battery, and solar to provide grid support and services and create new revenue streams for our customers.
My journey here started with a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from Anna University, followed by a Master’s in Electrical Engineering from Ohio State University, where I focused on smart grid applications and power load forecasting techniques. Following graduate school, I spent a decade at SEL Engineering Services as an engineering consultant, where I focused on electric grid reliability and microgrid design, working closely with utilities and industrial facilities.
Supported by my mentors at SEL, I decided to pursue my Master’s in Analytics from the University of Chicago (2019–2021). During my time at UChicago, Professor Shree Bharadwaj encouraged me to explore entrepreneurship through classes at Booth. This motivated me to sign up for the new venture strategy course with Professor Gregory Bunch, who became a key inspiration in my entrepreneurial journey. Along with my amazing teammates Niso Moyo and Michael Mokodanski, I cofounded StoryEasel through the Polsky Center New Venture Challenge. This experience, combining my technical background with business innovation, proved invaluable in my career path.
The combination of my technical background, data analytics education from UChicago, and entrepreneurial experience positioned me well for my current role at AutoGrid (now Uplight). Here, I apply both my engineering expertise and business innovation skills to help our clients with the clean energy transition. My team connects everyday devices—from water heaters and thermostats to electric vehicles and solar panels—into virtual power plants that help utilities reduce operational costs while enabling customers to participate in grid support programs. This creates a win-win situation: utilities can better manage their resources while customers gain new revenue streams through incentive programs, all while supporting a cleaner, more sustainable grid.
My contributions to the field have been recognized through my elevation to IEEE Senior Member and selection as one of 83 top emerging US leaders by the National Academy of Engineering in 2021. I remain passionate about advancing clean technology and shaping our energy future.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Every day brings new challenges in this rapidly evolving clean energy space. I work with utilities and customers to solve real-world problems—whether it’s integrating new types of devices into our virtual power plants, optimizing how we dispatch energy resources during peak load demand, or helping customers maximize their participation in grid programs. Since this is an emerging field, I have to think creatively to develop solutions that haven’t been tried before. That’s what makes my work exciting as I contribute towards building and improving the foundation for a cleaner, more resilient power grid.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
Outside of work, my two-year-old son keeps me on my toes! He’s actually teaching me some important life lessons about priorities and being present in the moment. When I can, I love meeting up with friends, going on hikes, and traveling. Though with a toddler, every day is its own adventure!
What’s something you learned in your program that you use in your current profession or in your everyday life?
My UChicago education transformed how I approach challenges. I learned to think strategically before making decisions, asking the right questions rather than rushing to solutions. The program also honed my ability to spot patterns and connections that might not be obvious at first glance. These skills are invaluable in my work with emerging clean energy technologies, where we often need to find innovative solutions to complex problems. Whether designing new programs for utilities or optimizing energy assets to maximize revenue and support the grid, this strategic mindset helps me see beyond the immediate challenges to identify better, more comprehensive solutions.
What was your most memorable class or faculty member and why?
Two classes really shaped my thinking at UChicago. The data visualization course with Professor Shree Bharadwaj opened my eyes to the power of data storytelling—not just analyzing numbers but presenting them in ways that create real impact. Professor Gregory Bunch’s New Venture class at Booth helped me think more strategically about business opportunities. Together, these experiences transformed how I approach decision-making, combining data-driven insights with strategic thinking. Both professors went beyond just teaching—they helped me reframe how I look at problems and opportunities.
What was your favorite campus spot and why?
Our classes were at the Gleacher Center downtown, and I loved the view of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan from our classrooms. Taking in that serene waterfront view, especially during evening classes, was a perfect backdrop for learning. There was something calming about watching the boats go by, even during intense study sessions.
What support did you receive at UChicago that proved valuable to you?
The support I received at UChicago was incredible on two fronts. First, the professors were extraordinarily generous with their time and knowledge, always willing to engage in meaningful discussions and patiently answer my questions. Second, the diverse group of friends I made during my time there has become a lasting support system. The life lessons we shared and the connections we built continue to enrich my life today. I’m deeply thankful for both the academic mentorship and the lasting friendships that grew from my UChicago experience.
What advice or insights do you have for new or prospective Maroons?
Don’t just focus on the coursework—while academics are important, UChicago offers so much more. Use this opportunity to explore your interests, whether through university clubs, starting your own company, or simply experiencing the rich diversity of cultures in this wonderful city. Some of my most valuable experiences came from engaging with classmates from different backgrounds and taking chances on new opportunities. The university gives you a unique environment to try new things, meet incredible people, and grow both personally and professionally. Make the most of your time here by embracing all these possibilities.
If you could choose one word to describe the University of Chicago, what would it be?
Transformative—because the University of Chicago opens doors to possibilities you never imagined, bringing together extraordinary people, ideas, and opportunities in ways that can transform your life.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a travel agent or flight attendant when I was a kid—anything that would let me explore the world! While life took me down a different path into clean energy, that curiosity and desire to discover new things has stayed with me.
What do you want to do when you retire?
I am far from retiring—I feel like I’ve just started! However, on tough days, I do dream of retiring early to fulfill my childhood dream of exploring the world, learning about different cultures, and meeting new people, with my husband and son. I look forward to having more time with family and giving back to underserved communities. After spending my career working on clean energy solutions, I hope to continue making a positive impact, just in a different way.
If you could go back in time, what would you do differently?
I would have been kinder to myself. I spent a lot of energy worrying about finding the right job and proving myself when I could have used that time to explore hobbies and personal interests. The UChicago community and, more recently, my toddler son have taught me that professional success isn’t everything—it’s equally important to nurture other aspects of life: self, family, friends, and hobbies.