"Green and Clean":
AFAM: Hello Alessandro and thank you for agreeing to answer our questions. You are a Project Manager at Waga Energy and you work as a VIE in Philadelphia. Could you please tell us a few words about the company you work for and your role in it?
Alessandro: Waga Energy is a French cleantech company specializing in the recovery of landfill gas into Renewable Natural Gas (RNG), also known as biomethane. The company operates internationally, including in North America, and is committed to accelerating the energy transition by transforming waste into a valuable energy source.
As a Project Engineer within the U.S. branch, based in Philadelphia, I’m currently leading the execution of RNG infrastructure projects, ranging between $25M and $30M in value. My role involves managing the full EPC cycle — Engineering, Procurement, and Construction — from early-stage technical design to commissioning. I coordinate multidisciplinary teams, monitor budgets and timelines, and ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards. It’s a dynamic, high-responsibility position that offers me strong exposure to both technical and stakeholder management challenges.
AFAM: what is the most exciting and the most challenging in your current job?
Alessandro: What excites me the most in my current role is the scale and impact of the projects I manage. Working on multi-million-dollar infrastructure that directly contributes to decarbonizing the energy sector is both meaningful and motivating. I also really enjoy the dynamic, international environment — coordinating with stakeholders from different cultures, backgrounds, and technical expertise gives me a constant opportunity to learn and grow.
The most challenging aspect is managing complexity under tight deadlines. Leading EPC projects means being at the intersection of engineering, procurement, construction, and compliance. I need to ensure every component aligns — from technical design to contractor schedules to permitting — while adapting to unexpected changes on-site. It requires being proactive, detail-oriented, and calm under pressure. But these challenges are also what make the job so rewarding.
AFAM: We have several students in our Shasta program (as every year) who are looking for internships in the US and would like to pursue a VIE ( as VIE is accepted today by the school as end-of-the-year internship abroad). You managed to obtain a VIE with Waga Energy. Please let us know why you think you were successful in securing this position?
Alessandro: I believe what made the difference in securing my VIE at Waga Energy was a combination of genuine international motivation, targeted preparation, and persistence. I had previously spent six months in Australia on a Working Holiday Visa, which not only demonstrated my enthusiasm for working abroad but also helped me develop adaptability and a global mindset — qualities that are essential in an international assignment like a VIE.
When I applied to Waga Energy, I made sure to align my profile with the company's mission in renewable energy and their ambitions in the North American market. I tailored my application to highlight both my engineering and project management background, and how I could contribute to large-scale energy infrastructure projects in the U.S.
Another key point is that I proactively reached out to a current VIE at Waga before applying. I asked questions about the role and the company’s culture, which helped me better prepare for the interviews — and showed the recruiters that I was already projecting myself into the role.
My advice to students looking for a VIE: don’t hesitate to reach out to people already in the position you’re aiming for. It helps you understand what’s expected, and it shows initiative and motivation — two things that really stand out during the recruitment process.
AFAM: If you could give some pieces of advice to those who are looking for an internship in the US today, what would you say to them?
Alessandro: First, be very clear on what you’re looking for — the U.S. job market values focus. Whether it’s project management, data, engineering, or marketing, know your target and adapt your resume and outreach accordingly.
Second, network actively. Many opportunities in the U.S. come through connections, even weak ties. Reach out to alumni, current interns, or professionals on LinkedIn — ask for 15 minutes to hear about their experience. It’s not about asking for a job, it’s about learning — and showing you’re proactive.
Third, get comfortable with the cultural codes: have a sharp, one-page U.S.-style resume, be direct and confident in interviews, and follow up after conversations. Soft skills, initiative, and communication often matter just as much as technical background.
Finally — and most importantly — be patient and don’t get discouraged. It can take time to land the right opportunity, and rejection is part of the process. Each step, even the ones that don’t work out, helps you get closer to the right fit. Stay consistent, keep learning, and trust the process — your effort will pay off.
AFAM: It's been a year that you've lived in Philadelphia, what do you like the most in this region? How do you spend your free time?
Alessandro: Philadelphia has been a great discovery. I really appreciate the mix of history, culture, and the strong sense of community here. The city is dynamic and full of character, and I enjoy how walkable and lively the neighborhoods are. There’s always something going on — from local events to food markets and museums.
In my free time, I stay active — I’ve played rugby for many years and recently got into trail running. I even completed a 50-mile trail race, which was a rewarding personal challenge. I also like to explore the city and its surroundings with friends. Living abroad has been a very enriching experience, both professionally and personally.
AFAM: Could you tell us more about your future plans?
Alessandro: After my VIE experience, I’m planning to continue developing my career in the U.S., ideally in New York City. I’m looking for opportunities where I can apply my engineering background and project management experience to drive impactful, technically complex projects.
I particularly enjoy working in dynamic, international environments and taking on responsibility — especially when it comes to coordinating teams, managing stakeholders, and delivering results under tight timelines. In the long run, I aim to grow into leadership roles where I can contribute both strategically and operationally.
AFAM: Thank you, Alessandro!
Picture (courtesy of Alessandro): Alessandro during 50 mile ultramarathon at Antelope Canyon (AZ)
Other interviews in “Green and Clean” series:
Interview with Guenael Prince (Cl 201)
Interview with Raphael Zaccardi (Cl 182)
Interview with Lucie Marionnet (Class 2019)
Interview with François Callait (Ch 189)
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