Andrés’ Journey from Student to Teacher

Andrés Laverde first came to the Iceland School of Energy (ISE) to study geothermal energy. Today, he's back in the classroom at Reykjavík University, but this time, he's the one teaching.

Since graduating, Andrés has started a career in the geothermal industry, working on projects that put his knowledge of the Earth's subsurface into practice. Now, he's sharing that experience with students following a path similar to his own.

Andrés Laverde first came to the Iceland School of Energy (ISE) to study geothermal energy. Today, he's back in the classroom at Reykjavík University, but this time, he's the one teaching.

Since graduating, Andrés has started a career in the geothermal industry, working on projects that put his knowledge of the Earth's subsurface into practice. Now, he's sharing that experience with students following a path similar to his own.

From Colombia to Iceland

Originally from Colombia, Andrés studied Geosciences at Universidad de los Andes in Bogotá. His interest in volcanoes and the processes taking place beneath the Earth's surface eventually led him to geothermal energy.

Iceland, with its volcanic landscapes and extensive use of geothermal resources, offered an opportunity to explore that interest further.

He joined the MSc Sustainable Energy Science programme at ISE, where he could build on his background in geology while developing a broader understanding of energy systems, engineering, and sustainability.

“Iceland is a dream for any geologist passionate about volcanoes and geothermal energy. ISE allowed me to deepen my expertise in geothermal energy while broadening my perspective on sustainability and policy-making.”

During his studies, Andrés explored geothermal reservoir modelling, including how scientists and engineers use geological information and computer models to understand underground energy resources.

Taking Knowledge into the Industry

After graduating in 2020, Andrés continued his career in geothermal energy, including few years working as a geothermal energy engineer at Arctic Green Energy.

His work involved evaluating geothermal resources, developing models of underground systems, and using geographic information systems (GIS) to support energy projects.

The work brought together many of the subjects he had studied at ISE, but with the added challenges of applying them to real projects.

Understanding what lies beneath the surface is an important part of geothermal development. Engineers must evaluate underground conditions, estimate the potential of a resource, and make decisions about how it can be used effectively.

For Andrés, this was an opportunity to apply his geoscience background to the practical challenges of developing sustainable energy.

Returning to the Classroom

Andrés' connection to ISE did not end when he graduated.

Today, he contributes to geothermal education at Reykjavík University, bringing his professional experience back into the classroom.

For students, learning from someone who has followed a similar academic path offers a valuable perspective. Andrés understands what it is like to arrive in Iceland to study geothermal energy, but he can also explain how the concepts students encounter in class are used in the industry.

His return reflects an important part of the ISE community: the connections between students, graduates, and the professionals working in Iceland's energy sector.

Coming Full Circle

Andrés' journey has taken him from studying the Earth's natural systems in Colombia to developing geothermal expertise in Iceland and working in the energy industry.

Now, as a teacher, he has the opportunity to share what he has learned with students preparing for their own careers.

For Andrés, the classroom is no longer just a place to gain knowledge. It is also a place to pass it on.