Gelisa Evans graduated from the USF College of Engineering in the fall of 2024 with an undergraduate in electrical engineering. In 2024, Gelisa received the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE): Women in Energy Scholarship. This award recognizes her academic excellence and commitment to advancing the energy sector.
Gelisa Evans received the scholarship at the 2024 Florida Women in Energy Leadership Forum (FWELF), held in Tampa. The event celebrates the contributions of women in energy and offers networking opportunities with industry leaders.
鈥淚t was an amazing experience at the FWELF conference as I was able speak with one of the panel speakers during a networking mixer. She was able to get me in touch with the HR at her company Burns & McDonnell and now I work there as an energy and utilities analyst right after graduation,鈥� said Evans.
A Pathway to Success in her Career
As part of the scholarship experience, Evans connected with professionals in the energy field. She began her career as an Energy and Utilities Analyst at in February 2025, a position she secured after meeting a recruiter during the event.
鈥淭his award is more than a personal milestone鈥攊t鈥檚 a step toward bridging gaps in representation within the energy sector,鈥� said Bernard Batson, Associate Dean of Access & Engineering Workforce Development at USF.
The USF College of Engineering continues to champion its students鈥� achievements, supporting them in becoming leaders in innovation and technologyGelisa Evans鈥檚 accomplishment was celebrated by USF faculty, including Associate Professor Ismail Uysal, PhD, who highlighted the significance of her achievement.
鈥淕elisa鈥檚 dedication and hard work reflect the caliber of students at USF. Her success sets an example for aspiring engineers,鈥� said Ismail Uysal.
See what Gelisa Evans is up to now;