Paul Foote
After graduating from KCC in 2012 with an AAS degree in Electrical Technology with a Renewable Energy focus, Paul transferred to the University of Illinois. Here's information on Paul from 2013:
He is studying Technical System Management in U of I's College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences with a focus on Renewable Energy. Paul chose the University of Illinois for the world-class education and wide range of subject matter available to study. As Paul states:
"The diverse cultural experience provides great insight into the world economy and business opportunities available. Accomplishing a degree at the University of Illinois is going to be challenging and that has always motivated me. I love a challenge."
Student job fulfills Paul's desire to make a difference
Searching for a way to express his desire to make a difference in the world, Paul took a full-time student academic position at U of I's Sustainability Facilities and Services Department. In his work there, Paul
- assists in maintaining the Illinois Climate Action Plan Portal
- researches, develops and initiates new sustainability projects for U of I, following up with architect, engineering and planning phases of projects
- participates in feasibility studies and requests for proposal, tracking down time-critical information, such as efficient land use criteria, investment tax credits, production tax credits, and national & industry statistics
- researches and verifies grant eligibility and availability for rainwater harvesting, solar installation, boiler tune-up, wind, bio mass, fuel cells, solar thermal, sewer/storm water, conservation, foundations, and sustainability projects
- completed research, documentation collection and application process for Perry Chapman Prize, identifying contacts, application procedures, and timeframes, and corresponding with DCEO, ICECF, and IEPA
Paul sums up his job so far: "The experience has been amazing!"
Student volunteerism opportunity provides more RE experience
Paul is volunteering on the Student Sustainability Committee energy working group, developing and coordinating the inaugural University of Illinois Campus Conservation Nationals competition. He designed and is project manager for the campus electric vehicle-charging project.
Paul has been an active member of the Illini Veterans Registered Student Organization, helping raise money for the Center for Wounded Veterans in Higher Education and other local charities.