Leo Kasmer

Leo Kasmer, Full-Time MBA Class of 2025
Associate Business Development Manager | Duke Energy

 

Briefly describe your experience in landing this role. What challenges did you overcome?

As someone who was transitioning out of the military, I struggled with knowing that I had no background in traditional business operations, let alone the energy industry. Thankfully, I found a great support network within my classmates, the Energy Center, and alumni that worked at Duke Energy. Finding a passion for the company and the unique characteristics of the of the industry motivated me to push past my insecurities and personal barriers, ultimately landing a life-changing role.

 

How did UNC, Kenan-Flagler Business School, the MBA program, or MBA Career Services help you secure this opportunity?

The curriculum, learning opportunities, networking events, and breadth of experience and knowledge of the Energy Center, and practitioner instructors, were crucial for my education. Everyone that I interacted with brought new perspectives and ideas, which only fueled my interest in the field.

 

What are your long-term career goals?

I want to make an impact in how energy companies interact with the greater society. Most importantly how customers see and understand how important the company’s contributions are to their daily lives. Long-term, I want to work on energy policy focused on affordability.

 

Is there anyone (e.g., faculty, peers, mentors) you’d like to recognize for their support?

Steven Arbogast, Dan Domeracki, Rachel White, Sandra Chandler, Camille Walton, Pat Wheeler, Eric Stock, Bill Currens, Gauri Sanade, Laurel Meeks, Josh Haswell