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September 1, 2006 Vol.77, no. 3F
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| JESSE ANTE PHOTO
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Career Corner with ME alum Jesse Ante
Career Corner is a new feature in which we interview alumni about their career choices and ask them for career advice.
After graduating from Cal, Jesse Ante (B.S.’68, M.S.’70 ME) worked as senior mechanical and nuclear engineer at PG&E helping design, construct, operate and maintain the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plan in San Luis Obispo. He retired from PG&E after 27 years and, since 2000, he’s been a utilities engineer at the California Public Utilities Commission working in regulation within the energy division.
What do you like about your job?
My first real engineering job was with PG&E in 1972, and what I liked most were the people because many were Cal engineering alumni, so there was a feeling of being at home.
What do you recommend students do during school to prepare for a career?
Network by attending job career fairs, volunteer for the Cal Alumni Association, join the leadership of student groups and participate in community activities. Find a Cal Alumni mentor to help guide you during your undergrad years because you may make lifelong friendships, contacts for future employment or even find a job.
What helped you make the transition from student to career employee?
After graduation, I had time to think about my career because I had to serve in the Air Force. During my time there, I was able to go to grad school and travel the county. After I got out, I felt mature enough to recognize what a company had that would fit my career needs. I was 27 when I had my first real job, so don’t stress about not knowing what you want to do.
What are things to think about while considering a potential job?
Ask these questions of yourself: What is your passion in life? What drives and motivates you? How do you like your boss and co-workers and are you passionate enough about the people/work to get up five days a week and go to work enthusiastically for the next 30 years?
Have additional questions? Email jesse_ante@alum.calberkeley.org.
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