Name: Kurt Abraham; Institution: Claflin University; Program: Office of Environmental Management's Minority Serving Institutions Partnership Program (EM-MSIPP); Education Level: Undergraduate Student
April 30, 2024
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The Department of Energy (DOE) is at the forefront of addressing the nation’s environmental challenges through advanced research and the development of new technologies. The Office of Environmental Management (EM) is instrumental in nurturing the next generation of experts in fields ranging from engineering to science, empowering them with unique perspectives and equitable solutions to environmental issues.
Kurt Abraham: Bridging Technology and Environmental Management
Kurt Abraham, a Computer Engineering major from Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC, has made significant strides in integrating technology with environmental management through the DOE Office of Environmental Management's Minority Serving Institutions Partnership Program (EM-MSIPP). This initiative aims to increase the participation of minority STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) students from across the United States and its territories in the national laboratory network and the DOE’s Environmental Management complex.
Abraham at the 2024 Waste Management Symposia
Abraham’s Educational Path and EM-MSIPP Engagement
The journey began when Abraham, through his academic performance and interest in the field of environmental management, was selected to receive the EM-MSIPP Scholarship. His summer 2022 internship at Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) provided him with a first-hand look into environmental management operations. SRNS is a company based in Aiken, South Carolina, that strives to make the world safer through disciplined performance in producing and protecting nuclear materials for our nation’s security, promoting global nuclear deterrence, and protecting the environment for future generations. His project focused on automating documentation and reporting processes for nearly 50 different environmental metrics, enhancing efficiency and accuracy. The EM-MSIPP internship opportunity not only refined Abraham’s technical skills but sparked a deep interest in the application of these technologies to environmental challenges.
Innovations at Savannah River Nuclear Solutions
While working with the Metrics team at SRNS, Abraham led a project to automate quantitative metric reporting using advanced Excel techniques. This initiative streamlined workflows and enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of environmental reporting at the site. He also explored the potential of virtual reality (VR) applications in environmental management by participating in the development of VR simulations for safety and operational training.
Abraham and Claflin University classmates at the 2024 Waste Management Symposia in Phoenix, Arizona.
Professional Development at the 2024 Waste Management Symposia
Abraham further extended his knowledge and network by attending the 2024 Waste Management Symposia. This event provided him with insights into cutting-edge technologies like the Mixed-Reality Digital Twin (MRDT) and VR integration used at national laboratories, showcasing the significant impact of advanced technologies in environmental management. He also engaged with global experts in the field and learned about innovative projects across DOE sites, which ranged from advanced technological solutions to optimized waste management practices. Abraham’s experiences were pivotal, turning points that crystallized his resolve to blend his computer engineering expertise with environmental sustainability efforts. These interactions not only broadened his perspective but also solidified his professional network, providing invaluable connections that could support his future career within the DOE.
Looking Ahead
Equipped with experiences from EM-MSIPP and insights gained from Waste Management Symposia, Abraham is well-prepared to pursue a promising career in environmental management, potentially with the DOE. His plans to leverage his professional network for future opportunities reflect his commitment to integrating his technical expertise with sustainable environmental practices
Through programs like EM-MSIPP, the DOE supports not only the academic and technical development of students like Abraham but also ensures the integration of diverse perspectives into solving critical environmental and energy challenges. Abraham’s journey highlights the vital role of technology in advancing sustainable environmental management, serving as an inspiration for current and future MSIPP scholars.
For more information about the EM-MSIPP, visit Office of Environmental Management Expands Minority Serving Institutions Partnership Program | Department of Energy.