From the Classroom to a Career in Energy: Kevin Mitchell's Energypath Experience

For East Stroudsburg University student Kevin Mitchell, an interest in energy became a hands-on experience this summer through the 2026 Energypath program at Moravian University.

Kevin, who is studying physics with a minor in mathematical statistics, participated in Energypath‘s Bootcamps. Energypath, a program of Regenerative Energy Initiative (Regen), gave Kevin the opportunity to explore bioenergy and biofuels and their corresponding career pathways while learning alongside other students interested in the future of energy.

During the program, Kevin gained firsthand experience with the production of biogas and biodiesel in a session taught by Energypath alumnus and Dickinson College Farm Director of Energy Projects Matt Steiman. Working with his team, Kevin helped construct biodigester batches using manure slurry and produce biodiesel by applying chemical treatments to used cooking oil. The activities demonstrated how materials commonly considered waste can instead be transformed into useful energy resources.

“Seeing how waste materials such as manure, food scraps, greases, and used cooking oils can be transformed into useful fuels deepened my appreciation for the role science and innovation play in addressing energy and environmental challenges,” Kevin shared.

Experiences like these reflect a larger goal of Regen: advancing energy systems that renew, revitalize and regenerate. As Regen works toward a regenerative energy future, education is an important part of enabling people to take action. Through Energypath, participants can engage directly with emerging energy solutions while gaining the knowledge, experience and connections that can help them become part of the industry’s future.

For Kevin, that exposure also created an opportunity to learn directly from professionals in the field and think more intentionally about where his own education could take him.

“The experience strengthened my interest in pursuing a career in the energy sector,” he said.

Beyond the technical sessions, Kevin participated in professional development opportunities focused on networking, financial management and career advancement through a career breakout session hosted by Energypath and Regen. He also toured the Bethlehem Wastewater Treatment Plant and attended a one-day professional conference exploring the changing energy landscape.

Kevin’s experience was recently featured by Sustainable Energy Education & Development Support (SEEDS) in its August 2026 newsletter, where he reflected on what he learned and how Energypath influenced his professional goals.

Stories like Kevin’s demonstrate what Energypath is designed to provide: opportunities for students to move beyond the classroom, engage directly with energy technologies and professionals and begin envisioning their own place in the energy workforce.

They also demonstrate how Regen puts its purpose into practice. By connecting education, workforce development and industry, Regen works to enable action and help overcome the educational barriers that can stand between people and participation in our changing energy system.

Energypath is one way Regen is building those connections and helping prepare the next generation to participate in, influence and ultimately help realize a regenerative energy future.

Learn more about how Regenerative Energy Initiative is advancing a regenerative energy future →

See more into the 2026 Energypath Biogas Camp