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Reading Time: 3 minutesThe Bachelor of Innovation: A Unique Interdisciplinary Program I graduated from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs with a Bachelor of Innovation in Computer Science and Security. This is an interdisciplinary undergraduate program that combines traditional and practical coursework to develop teamwork, innovation, and entrepreneurship skills. You essentially have normal degree requirements but, instead of electives, you have business and innovation classes — most notably ones where you act as consultants to real businesses to gain real-world experience. How Consulting Projects Shaped My Career I credit this program with helping me develop the skills and confidence that landed me here at Mesa. Without the time to commit to an internship, I found consulting with these businesses to be crucial in building a quality resume. I recognized the positive impact that this degree has made in my career and reached out to UCCS to see if Mesa could be a business that students have a project for, and we were selected! Below are the students from UCCS that have worked hard to successfully deliver a project for Mesa’s applications team. Improving Accessibility:

Reading Time: 3 minutesIn the complex task of managing electricity grids, where demand fluctuates and supply must quickly adapt, ancillary services are pivotal players in the ERCOT market. The concepts of energy and capacity are important as ancillary services form the backbone of grid stability – ensuring seamless operations even amidst abrupt disruptions or unforeseen fluctuations such as weather change and transmission blocks. Energy versus Capacity: Key Distinctions Before delving into the nuances of ancillary services, it’s crucial to detect the differences between energy and capacity. Energy: This refers to the actual electricity generated and consumed over time. Every time we flip a switch or use an appliance, we’re tapping into the energy flowing through the grid. Capacity: In contrast, capacity represents the maximum potential of power that can be reliably generated or imported into the grid at any given time. It acts as a reservoir, ready to be utilized whenever demand occurs. Within the realm of capacity, two significant facets demand attention: Capacity for Energy Dispatch: Ensuring there’s enough capacity available to meet the expected electricity demand at each hour is essential.

Reading Time: 4 minutesUnderstanding ERCOT At the heart of Texas’ energy landscape lies ERCOT. Established as an Independent System Operator, ERCOT serves as the conductor of Texas’ electricity, orchestrating the flow of power without owning any generation or transmission assets. This unique model allows for greater flexibility in managing the grid. In the vast expanse of Texas, electricity is not just a commodity; it is a vital necessity powering the lives of over 26 million residents and businesses. Yet, unlike many states where energy is monopolized, Texas has embraced an approach to its energy market through deregulation and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). This makes them unique; they are like an island; cut off from the rest of the US power grid. Deregulated Energy in Texas The journey towards deregulated energy in Texas began with the passage of Senate Bill 7 in 2002. This landmark legislation ushered a new era of competition and consumer choice. Under this system, consumers have the liberty to select their Retail Electric Provider, empowering them to seek the best rates and services tailored to their needs.