Guillaume Darmouni (MSc Sustainable Energy Futures 2011) works for Veolia and is trying to make buildings greener and more energy efficient. At Imperial, Guillaume was inspired by people from all over the world and enjoyed the Master's in the Energy Futures Lab. The Lab is a cross-discipline institute based at Imperial and was founded to tackle the broad range of energy challenges that the world faces. Hear what Guillaume thought about his time at Imperial.
What did you learn during your time at Imperial, in class or out?
A lot about technology and policies to fight climate change! And also how to work in a group of international people with different backgrounds.
Can you tell us about your studies at Imperial?
I enjoyed the 12-month MSc, with a mix of classes, project work in teams and the research thesis. I think it was a good mix to prepare us to work in industry, consulting or research. The classes were extremely varied, from nuclear to electricity grid modelling. I made many friends with whom I am still in touch with today.
Who did you find inspiring at Imperial and why?
Some of my classmates had impressive experience in the energy world, yet were very open-minded and hungry to learn more. It was a pleasure to study with them and I sure see them as role models.
What is your fondest memory of your time here?
I remember the day of the Fukushima nuclear accident, it was during a nuclear energy class…! The professor spent the next couple of days on the BBC!
What is your favourite place at Imperial and why?
The squash courts at Ethos! You can always go on a rainy day...
Tell us a bit about the work you’re doing now...
I am making buildings greener and more efficient with energy retrofits. Did you know that 60% of buildings in the UK are rated D or lower for their energy performance? That’s what I want to change. Our team at Veolia is working hard every day with that goal in mind.
What have been your career highlights and lowlights?
I have been lucky enough to have a lot of highlights, mainly when we have secured large projects that save carbon like a new solar power plant. There are lowlights as well: my first employers went bankrupt and I lost all tenders at first when I started in Canada…but both times we bounced back and overachieved in the end!
What would be your advice for current students?
Spend all your time learning until you’re 40. Take all the risks when picking a job! Never be afraid, your professional life is supposed to be fun.
What makes you proud to be an Imperial alumnus?
Imperial is a symbol of diversity and modernity to me, rooted in scientific knowledge.
What one word or phrase would you use to describe Imperial alumni?
I have a friend in pretty much every city!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’d like Imperial to remain affordable and accessible to all, wherever they're from.
What makes you proud to be an Imperial alumnus?
"Imperial is a symbol of diversity and modernity to me, rooted in scientific knowledge."