91°
75º | 92°
Two University of Houston Cougars have been named among the 2024 Emerging Leaders by the Offshore Technology Conference. Jian Shi, assistant professor of engineering at the University of Houston, and Mejdi Kammoun, UH alumnus, are part of the esteemed group of 11 individuals earning a spot on the list.
Jian (Jason) Shi, Ph.D., who is an assistant professor with a dual appointment in the Department of Engineering Technology, and Electrical and Computer Engineering at University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering, expressed his passion for contributing to a safer, greener world. He stated, “My aspirations have always centered around contributing to a safer, greener world. Whether through innovative technologies, sustainable practices or policy advocacy, my dream remains unwavering: to leave a lasting positive impact on our planet.”
Mejdi Kammoun, principal engineer at the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and a UH alumnus, emphasized the importance of safety and sustainability in his work. Kammoun shared, “Establishing a robust foundation through a deep grasp of fundamental subjects like electrical theory, electromagnetics and solid-state electronics is critical for success in your electrical engineering studies.”
The OTC’s Emerging Leaders program selects young professionals with fewer than 10 years of experience in the offshore energy sector who demonstrate exceptional talents, commitment, and promise as future leaders. Both Shi and Kammoun have been recognized for their contributions to safety, sustainability, and innovation in the industry.
Shi’s research interests include deep decarbonization of multi-energy power grids, maritime electrification, energy justice and equity, community-based energy systems, and smart grid cybersecurity. He aims to address safety challenges associated with energy transition in the offshore environment to prevent spikes in injury and hazard rates in the future.
Kammoun, who earned a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from UH in 2016, has been instrumental in developing regulations and requirements to ensure the safe implementation of energy storage and generation systems for marine and offshore shipping contexts. He credited the University of Houston and Haleh Ardebili for supporting his growth and offered advice to students to establish a strong foundation in fundamental subjects for success in electrical engineering studies.
The 2024 Emerging Leaders cohort, including Shi and Kammoun, will be recognized during a special ceremony at the Offshore Technology Conference on Tuesday, May 7.