Program: Master of Energy Transition and Sustainability
Home Country: Uruguay
Universities: Universidad de Montevideo
Languages: Spanish, English
Pronouns: He/him
Born in Montevideo and raised in the countryside, he became the first in his family to earn a university degree, graduating with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the Universidad de Montevideo in 2021, and later completing a postgraduate diploma in Data Science and Big Data. His technical background bridges mechanical systems and data-driven solutions, with a strong focus on energy sustainability.
Rodrigo’s journey is also rooted in a passion for soccer, which played a key role in shaping his discipline and work ethic. At 14, he joined a professional soccer team in Uruguay with dreams of becoming a professional player. Ultimately, he chose to pursue higher education, but the mindset cultivated on the field—resilience, teamwork, and commitment—continues to influence his academic and professional path. His leadership potential led to his selection as a University Innovation Fellow at Stanford University in 2018, where he engaged with global innovators and began developing his vision of creating lasting impact through education and technology.
Currently, Rodrigo works as a researcher at the Universidad de Montevideo and as Data Engineer at MCT Ingeniería, an energy service company. His work focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence and data science in energy efficiency projects, including electric vehicle infrastructure, HVAC optimization, and industrial sustainability assessments. His goal is to merge academic research with practical solutions to support Uruguay’s energy transition. He plans to pursue a master degree in the United States to deepen his expertise in renewable energy systems, energy storage, and the financial aspects of sustainable project implementation. Upon returning to Uruguay, Rodrigo aims to continue teaching and researching while contributing to the development of cutting-edge energy solutions that benefit both local communities and global sustainability efforts.
What I like about Rice/Houston:
Although I haven’t arrived at Rice yet, what excites me the most is how welcomed I’ve already felt. Everyone speaks highly of Rice’s students and staff, and I can already sense the warm, supportive atmosphere of its campus culture. Houston, as the energy capital of the world, feels like the perfect place to pursue a master’s in energy. I’m also thrilled to live in such a cosmopolitan city, full of things to do and people from all over the world—I know I’ll grow not only academically, but personally as well.
What I like about Fulbright:
The Fulbright Program makes it possible for students like me to pursue a dream that would otherwise be financially out of reach. It offers access to world-class education in the United States—home to some of the best and most diverse universities globally, where I’ll be able to learn from top educators while exploring a flexible and multidisciplinary curriculum in energy engineering. I’m especially excited about the emphasis on cultural exchange, as I believe that living and studying alongside people from different backgrounds will help me grow both personally and professionally. Fulbright also encourages us to return home and apply what we’ve learned to benefit our countries, a mission I deeply align with. Finally, being part of a global network of passionate and talented scholars will be invaluable for my future.
Fun Fact about me:
I used to ride a horse every day to go to school as a kid!