Associate
Vista Exploration
Year Graduated from CU Denver: Completed certificate Spring 2021
Major(s), Minor(s): Commodities Certificate
Where has life taken you since you graduated from CU Denver?
I am working as an Associate for an independent Exploration and Production company in my hometown of Traverse City, MI. Our company is working out of a startup incubator called 20Fathoms.
Why did you choose to take part in the J.P Morgan Center for Commodities programs?
Because of the work background of the professors who were teaching. I believe that a quality Master’s level education is taught by accomplished industry professionals. When I was researching programs regarding energy and commodity markets I found the JPMCC at the top and was incredibly impressed with who was teaching. In addition, I was interested in learning how to use Bloomberg Anywhere, an industry standard.
What is one thing you learned at the J.P Morgan Center for Commodities that you will never forget?
Fully understanding the financial extent of when a financial hedge goes wrong from Dr. Paoloni’s class (CMDT 6682). While there were many terms and jargon, I came away with a much better appreciation how to financial hedge especially in these volatile times.
What advice would you give to anyone interested in pursuing a career in commodities?
Be proficient at programming as a data analyst, which is different from being a developer. Having a foundation in spreadsheets and object-oriented programming is key to applying the concepts you will learn at the JPMCC.
If you have a story that you would love to share about your experience with the J.P. Morgan Center for Commodities, please contact Erica Hyman at erica.hyman@ucdenver.edu.