“Dynamic work environment and the development opportunities are favorite parts of my job”
Our next interviewee for the Career Blog is Rustam Mirzalizadeh, a senior specialist in the Strategic Planning and Innovations Department at the Azerbaijan Energy Regulatory Agency (AERA).
Rustam Mirzalizadeh graduated with honors in “Engineering Economics and Management” from the Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University in 2011. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in “Energy Management” at the Azerbaijan Technical University.
With experience in the heat energy supply sector, Rustam Mirzalizadeh joined AERA in 2020 as a lead specialist and has since advanced to a senior specialist role in the Strategic Planning and Innovations Department.
How would you describe your work at AERA? 
In my role, I conduct various research and analysis, making proposals for applying new technologies and scientific advancements, as well as energy sector planning tools and methodologies for regulation purposes. Using advanced visualization applications, I analyze the technical and economic indicators of regulatory subjects and prepare reports on their trends over the years.
Additionally, my colleagues and I help develop and implement regulatory legal acts for the sector, utilizing new knowledge gained at trainings and conferences we attend both domestically and internationally.
What are your favorite parts of your job?
I appreciate the dynamic work environment and the development opportunities my job offers. Since energy regulation is a relatively new field, there is a wide range of tasks involved in organizing and ensuring its activities. This has allowed me to constantly acquire new knowledge and skills by studying the experiences and legislation of various countries and international publications, significantly contributing to my professional growth.
What skills should a person who wants to build a career in your field have?
A successful career in energy sector requires possessing various professional skills. Those interested in this sector should master technical aspects and be adept at handling regulatory legal acts and information related to the energy market. Additionally, the ability to take initiatives and teamwork skills are crucial.
What motivates you to do your job better?
The management’s support for the activities and development of the Agency’s specialists are the key factors enhancing my motivation.
Moreover, the high team spirit and result-oriented work environment improve productivity, facilitate the prompt resolution of tasks, and lead to greater achievements for the team.
What advice would you give to those aspiring to join AERA?
I believe the Agency’s central role in the energy sector’s transformation, along with the active involvement of its young employees in this process, offers a valuable learning experience. Those who want to join AERA can utilize this opportunity to enhance their practical skills and advance their careers.
Those aspiring to join AERA can achieve their career goals by gaining expertise in the energy sector and acquiring relevant technical skills.
