The People Powering What’s Next
Each summer, LevelTen Energy welcomes a group of outstanding undergraduate students into our Energy Scholars Program. These Scholars spend 10 weeks immersed in the world of renewable energy — working alongside our team, building technical skills, and exploring career paths in sustainability.
Throughout the summer, Scholars attend educational sessions led by LevelTen and our partners, receive one-on-one mentorship, and connect with professionals across the clean energy industry. Each Scholar takes on meaningful, real-world projects as part of a paid internship designed to build both confidence and experience.
To make the program as accessible as possible, we provide housing through the University of Washington, travel accommodations, and a support system that helps students thrive professionally and personally.
This year, their stories feel especially meaningful. In a time of uncertainty across the industry, these Scholars remind us why this work matters — and why we must keep investing in the people who will carry it forward. Whether you're a future employer, mentor, or fellow changemaker, we hope you’ll see in them the same spark that inspires us to keep going.
Energy Scholar Spotlight: Zach Biernat
University of Wisconsin–Madison | Mechanical Engineering & Thermal Energy Systems Minor | Class of 2025
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Tell us a little about yourself, Zach.
I’m passionate about moving the planet toward a sustainable future, and I hope to contribute by combining my engineering background with business experience to support meaningful renewable energy projects. I especially enjoy working on solar and wind technologies—anything that lets me be hands-on and see the impact of my work in real time.
Why are you passionate about sustainability and clean energy?
I’m from Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, so I’ve always had a deep appreciation for nature and a desire to protect it. Studying engineering over the past four years has naturally led me to clean energy, where I see the most potential for long-term impact.
What’s a favorite project you’ve worked on as a student?
One of my favorite projects is a solar dehydrator I’m currently leading. It was originally meant to support a community in Fiji, but after a year of delays and missing support, I pivoted the project to benefit campus residents at UW–Madison. I think this shows my ability to adapt, stay positive, and find ways to create value for both my team and my community—even when plans change.
What’s the most pressing issue within sustainability?
Battery energy storage is a key challenge we need to solve as we increase solar production. Solar energy peaks during the day, but demand often peaks in the evening—so without good storage solutions, a lot of that energy is wasted. If we can store it effectively, we can extend the benefits of clean energy into the hours when people need it most and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Thanks, Zach!
We’re honored to support each of our Scholars on their clean energy journey and excited to see the impact they’ll make in the years ahead.
Connect with Zach Biernat on LinkedIn to follow their journey or learn more about the Energy Scholars Program.
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