We wanted to shoutout a special member of the TVL community, Laura Rivera Gomez. In addition to being a TA for our Energy Ventures Practicum class, Laura is a M.S. Mechanical Engineering & MBA Candidate and Graduate Research Assistant for the Webber Energy Group. She also has project management experience working for companies like Ethos Energy. Read more to hear more about Laura and how TVL has helped her accomplish her academic and career goals.
What TVL programs and/or events did you participate in?
Laura: “I participated in the Energy Ventures Practicum course in Spring 2024. Our team, Windchaser, developed a business plan for a vertical axis wind turbine for telecom providers.”
What was your favorite moment/ do you have a standout memory from your time with TVL?
Laura: “My favorite memory of my time with TVL was meeting my project team! We were a diverse group of majors, backgrounds, and personalities, and we came together due to shared interest around our venture idea and interest in entrepreneurship. We became great friends in the process, and we enjoy grabbing happy hour together!”
What are you currently pursuing now?
Laura: “I’m currently a TA for the Energy Ventures Practicum course. In addition to this, as part of my research on the hydrogen economy, I’m evaluating the life cycle emissions of geologic hydrogen for various industrial applications. I’m interested in exploring ways to incorporate my research expertise in the energy entrepreneurship space.”
Do you feel that TVL has prepared you for or led you to success in your current endeavors? If so, how?
Laura: “Yes, TVL was my introduction into the world of entrepreneurship and the many resources hosted by TVL and the broader UT-Austin community. My curiosity about the entrepreneurship space and my interest in the energy sector led me to the Energy Ventures Practicum course, and I’m now happy to still be part of the course as a TA and involved with the TVL community.”
Do you have any advice to give grad students or entrepreneurs? How should they use TVL to their advantage?
Laura: “It may feel daunting to enter the entrepreneurship world without having an original venture idea , but you don’t have to wait and have one to start on your entrepreneurship journey. You have to start by getting involved and learning about the key elements and processes required to start a venture, connecting with current entrepreneurs, and learning the opportunities and resources available for startups in our community. Who knows? You may even have knowledge or expertise that a current startup is looking for!”
What is your superpower?
Laura: “My superpower is my dedication! I put my heart into the things that I’m passionate about, and I always try to make the most out of any opportunity life hands me. All things are difficult before they are easy!”
Why is entrepreneurship the path for you?
Laura: “Entrepreneurship has a key role in our communities and it can drive innovation in the energy sector. Although it’s hard work and has risks, it can have many rewards and benefits for our society, and I want to be a part of it.”
What’s your favorite hidden gem in Austin?
Laura: “Patrizis at the Vortex! Don’t let this food truck fool you. Their pasta is handmade and absolutely delicious and affordable! I love their bruschettas, and they have great service. It’s also part of Austin’s theater scene, so you can enjoy some great food after watching a play!”