“There is always an opportunity to learn and develop at AERA” 
This edition of the Career Blog features Ozal Feyzili, Chief Specialist in the Energy Monitoring Section of the Energy Regulation and Monitoring Department at the Azerbaijan Energy Regulatory Agency (AERA).
Ozal Feyzili graduated from the Azerbaijan State Oil Academy (now Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University – ASOIU) with a bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Telecommunications, and Radio Engineering from the Faculty of Automation of Production Processes. He also earned a master’s degree with honors in Automation and Electronics from the same university. Additionally, he completed his doctoral studies at ASOIU, specializing in Information Measurement and Control Systems.
Ozal Feyzili, who has extensive experience in the energy sector, joined AERA in 2018. His performance has been highly valued by management, and through steady career progression, he has served as a Chief Specialist since October 2024.
How would you describe your work at AERA?
My work at AERA involves monitoring the energy sector, studying and implementing international best practices, and contributing to projects aimed at enhancing efficiency in this field. My work here is not merely a routine for me, but an opportunity to deepen my knowledge and expertise. For instance, I participated in a training program titled “Sustainability through Energy Management” in Malaysia in June 2024. This training provided valuable insights into effective energy supply system management, energy-saving projects, and the role of consumers in improving energy efficiency.
"Sustainability through Energy Management” training, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia, 2024
What are your favorite aspects of your job?
What I love most about my job is seeing the real results of it. I find it particularly important to work on projects that directly impact citizens’ daily lives and the operations of enterprises. On the other hand, engaging in the work in this field and attending trainings allow me to explore experiences of different countries and apply this knowledge in a way that is appropriate to local reality.
Seminar on Clean Energy Application Technology for Developing Countries, China, 2023
What personal qualities do you believe have contributed to your success in this field?
I believe my openness to learning and my drive to embrace innovation have significantly shaped my success. The energy sector is dynamic and constantly evolving, you should always strive to learn and stay one step ahead. Another critical quality is my attention to detail and strong analytical thinking skills.
The third characteristic I would like to mention is my communication and collaboration skills. The energy sector is a very serious field where not only technical specialists, but also managers, economists, and lawyers work together. Effective communication with various parties and reaching a common conclusion is an integral part of this work.
What motivates you during challenging moments in your work?
When facing difficulties, I focus on the question: “How will this work improve people’s lives?” In challenging moments, exchanging ideas with my colleagues, finding new solutions, and moving forward together towards a common goal help me solve problems more quickly and effectively.
In which areas would you like to further develop your knowledge and skills to support your professional growth?
Since the energy sector is a rapidly changing and expanding field, I am constantly trying to develop my knowledge and skills. I want to increase my knowledge in digital technologies and data analytics, because the analysis of large volumes of data and the application of intelligent systems play an increasingly important role in the energy sector.
I believe that increasing my professional knowledge will help me work more effectively in both individual and team-based projects. There is always an opportunity to learn and develop at AERA.
What are your recommendations for those aspiring to become specialists in the energy sector?
My main recommendation for those who want to become specialists in the energy sector is to constantly learn and be open to innovations.
Secondly, it is important to gain practical experience, participate in laboratories, projects or international trainings, test and develop theoretical knowledge in real conditions.
Finally, I would like to emphasize a responsible approach to energy and the environment. I think that in the future the main challenges in this field will be related to sustainability and green technologies, therefore an ethical and sustainable approach should be one of the main characteristics of every professional. In conclusion, success in this sector hinges on professionalism, responsibility, and determination.
