SIIF Fellow Stories: Reflecting on My Internship at PowerFin Partners
By Charles Kittler, MBA ‘25; Edited by Aliya Carr
This summer I had the privilege of interning at PowerFin Partners, a solar development company in Austin, Texas. PowerFin focuses on providing cost-effective solar solutions to low-to-moderate-income (LMI) households, a mission that resonated with my personal and professional goals in the renewable energy sector. My internship was particularly meaningful because it allowed me to contribute to a company that both reduces reliance on fossil fuels for electricity and strives to make a tangible difference in underserved communities by helping LMI households reduce their electricity costs.
At PowerFin, my primary role was to develop a software program for VPP Engine, the company’s software affiliate. The program is designed to streamline the implementation and scaling of rooftop solar programs targeted at LMI households. I utilized a no-code platform to develop the app following a product roadmap provided by the CEO, focusing on creating workflows with an intuitive user interface, integrations with other programs like OpenSolar, and robust data analytics. These factors are critical for the effective management of solar installations, customer management, and for providing real-time insights to both the company and its customers.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my internship was seeing how my work directly contributed to PowerFin’s mission. The software I developed will play a crucial role in expanding access to renewable energy for households that might otherwise be unable to afford it. This aligns perfectly with my long-term career goal of using technology to address environmental and social challenges.
The experience was also a significant learning opportunity for me. I gained a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in solar development, municipal utilities, and the benefits of distributed generation. I also learned how to develop applications using no-code programs, a skill that I expect to use again in future entrepreneurial endeavors. These insights will be invaluable as I continue to pursue a career in clean technology and sustainable energy solutions.
The financial support I received from the McCombs School of Business through the Summer Internship Impact Fund (SIIF) was instrumental in making this internship possible. The grant alleviated the financial burden of a low-wage internship and allowed me to fully immerse myself in the experience without the distraction of financial concerns. This support was particularly important given the demanding nature of the work, which required my full attention and commitment.
Looking ahead, I am confident that the skills and experiences I gained this summer will serve me well in my future career. Working at PowerFin has strengthened my resolve to pursue a path in clean technology and has provided me with the practical experience needed to succeed in this field. The internship has also deepened my understanding of the critical role that private companies like PowerFin can play in addressing environmental and social challenges. I am excited to continue working towards a future where clean, affordable energy is accessible to all, and I am grateful to the GSLI and the SIIF for supporting me on this journey.
