ENGINEERING

INDUSTRIAL AND INFORMATION SCHOOL

Master’s Degree

Electrical Engineering

Graduate Alumni Testimonials

Read testimonials from some of our past students

«The Programme in Electrical Engineering undoubtedly provided technical know-how (also considering the knowledge I had acquired at the senior high school specialising in humanistic subjects). It developed my problem-solving skills, the ability to reason in analytical terms and rapidly find solutions, always exploring practical and intelligent options focused on innovation. This know-how, acquired with my degree, is crucial to achieve my professional goals. I wish to recommend this programme because, besides the excellent technical and scientific training, it also builds a problem-solving approach, which is essential for all high ranking professions today.

Luciano Bonetti President, Foppapedretti Board of Directors (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 1974 - A-levels centred on humanistic subjects)

«I commenced my studies at the Politecnico by initially enrolling in the programme on Electronic Engineering. Then I decided to switch to Electro-Technical Engineering (now Electrical Engineering) as it better mirrored my study goals, precisely power electronics, automatic controls and electric machines.

Gabriele Marchegiani Senior Technology Advisor at ENGIE Eps (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 1981 - A-levels centred on scientific subjects)

All my studies at the Politecnico have been crucial for my professional practice. The Programme included courses on various subjects that were not limited to the electrical framework, such as hydraulics, technical physics, machines, mechanics, which have been extremely useful for my work. The “electrical” courses, along with those on control and electronics, have also been part of my know-how. The Programme helped me achieve my professional goals. Going back in time, I would make the same choices and, perhaps, I would also include some additional courses on subjects I had to, anyhow, learn on the field, while working.

Cosa dicono gli studenti che si sono laureati in questo Corso di Studio?

I have always maintained technical and scientific cooperation with the Politecnico. I established a spin-off with professors and researchers at the Politecnico, and we later joined the ENGIE Group. My entire professional life has benefitted by my studies at the Politecnico. Today I look to the future with the intention of continuing my technical and scientific activity by cooperating with the University and supporting its teaching programme. I absolutely recommend this Programme, since electrification is becoming an intrinsic part of all industrial engineering sectors. Consider the current energy revolution involving renewable energy sources, the automobile sector inclined to develop electric vehicles, automation and robotics, which extensively make use of electric drives. Many of the innovative solutions are based on electrical engineering. Finally, a practical reflection: not only in Italy, but worldwide, there is a high demand for electrical engineers, and there are few, very few graduates in this sector, which is unexplainably overlooked by young students about to start their university career. Some advice: choose Electrical Engineering, you will never regret your decision.»

Franco Villani President and CEO at Bticino S.p.A. (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 1987 - Qualified Industrial Technician, Electrotechnology) «I found the Programme in Electrical Engineering extremely enriching. It

gave me the skills I expected to learn, but it especially tested and “trained” me to go into the details and be deeply committed. The Programme helped me achieve my professional goals, not only by providing learning and specific skills, but also and especially by encouraging my interests and broadening my horizons. I absolutely recommend this Programme. I invite all future students to be curious. Do not only go into details that are strictly related to your Programme. Study periods abroad and corporate internships are extremely useful in this regard.»

Cosa dicono gli studenti che si sono laureati in questo Corso di Studio?

I chose Electro-Technical Engineering (now Electrical Engineering) after going through a detailed review of all the programmes because it seemed to provide broad foundations, which I could have relied on when choosing my specialization. Evaluating everything I learnt during this Programme, I must say that the most important skill acquired is a way of thinking, which has been useful in many moments of my career. It is an approach to reality and its problems, which also applies beyond Electro-Technical Engineering. The Programme unquestionably helped me achieve my professional goals. My career has especially developed abroad, and my studies at the Politecnico have always stood up to expectations. There has never been a moment in my career when I thought that I would have been more skilled if I had studied elsewhere. During the Programme I was also fortunate to gain more practical experience than many of my colleagues. I absolutely recommend this Programme.»

Antonello Monti University Professor at RWTH Aachen University (Germany) and Director of the Institute for Automation of Complex Power Systems - E.ON Energy Research Center (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 1989 - A-levels centred on humanistic subjects)

«After my A-levels I decided to study engineering but I was rather hazy about the precise track. With my humanistic senior high school background, I really had no clear idea.

Angelo Leonelli Director, Regulatory, Market Analysis & Performance Control at ERG SpA (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 1992 - Electrical Engineering Technician)

«This Programme has especially given me specialised electrical engineering skills and particularly, in my case, in the plant engineering sector. The most challenging examinations built a standard of knowledge that has allowed me to fearlessly step into the occupational scene, distinguishing myself from the onset. However, I am convinced that the most important aspect concerns having acquired a method, analysis skills, and the habit to identify and solve complex problems. Briefly, an attitude.

Cosa dicono gli studenti che si sono laureati in questo Corso di Studio?

The Programme in Electrical Engineering has been decisive in enabling me to achieve my professional goals. The approach shaped by topics demanding continuous analysis and problem-solving has equipped me to perform tasks that have even been far from my learning pathway, in terms of content. I recommend enrolling in this Programme because “electrical know-how” is an ongoing process. The oldest laws and theories are the backbone of a revolution that has just commenced, and which must find increasingly challenging solutions to fight climate change. Consider widespread power generation, which will work alongside large power plants, the growing use of renewable sources to guide world economy along the virtuous path of decarbonization. And then integration with accumulation systems, the powerful drive to develop electric mobility, and resorting to AI rationale to enhance the efficiency of electric vehicles. In a nutshell, the future for an “electrical” engineer is highly stimulating and charged with prospects I frankly envy.

Alessandro Crippa Director, Project Design Department - Engineering Division, at EDISON S.p.A. (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 1993 - A-levels centred on scientific subjects)

«My personal interest in the subject led me to choose the Programme in Electrical Engineering (known as Electro-Technical Engineering at the time), and particularly the specialization track in Power Plants. I was born in an area where the presence of hydroelectric power plants and thermal power plants are deemed a historical part of the environmental and social framework.

I do not deny that I have always been fascinated and thrilled by engineering since childhood, and even by the architectural beauty of such plants. I find that the Programme perfectly converges the various engineering specializations. Indeed, during my three-year Programme, I studied subjects that were extremely diversified, which then reached a synthesis in the 4th and 5th year Specialized Master’s Degree examinations. The Programme has enabled me to access the employment scene with firmly grounded, wide ranging know-how in the various subjects, spanning electro-technical engineering and machines, including hydraulics and construction techniques. The overall knowledge is underpinned by solid foundations in mathematics, physics and chemistry.

Very often engineering graduates lack the opportunity to apply their technical skills in the occupational scene. Instead, this Programme gives an edge over others with its approach, analysis and problem-solving methods concerning work-related issues. In my case, the Laurea marked the beginning of a learning pathway. After being employed, for seven years, by electro-technical engineering firms operating in construction sites, I set up my own business as a self-employed professional by opening a consulting firm for Health and Safety management in the workplace. About 3 years ago I was contacted by a multinational seeking a highly specialized figure to be employed as part of its workforce. Hence, I temporarily suspended my self-employed practice and followed this new adventure. »

Marialuisa Garbin Works Manager and Safety Coordinator at Westfield Milan SpA (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 1995 - A-levels centred on scientific subjects)

«I chose to enroll in this Programme because I developed a passion for electro-technical engineering as a 10-year old kid, when I visited the Museum of Science and Technology in Munich..

I can say, without hesitation, that the Programme has enabled me to achieve my professional goals. In fact, I was offered the opportunity to conduct my graduation thesis at ENEL, thus experiencing the environment of a large thermal power plant even before my graduation. This enabled me to rapidly find employment in my field of specialization, developing and diversifying my professional experience. Hence, I rapidly reached managerial positions in a leading Italian company in the energy sector, and member of one of the largest groups in the global electricity scene. I recommend this Programme. It has been wrongly underestimated by many students in recent years. Actually, the prospect of increasing penetration of electricity in the infrastructures of our society, accompanied by the development of renewable energy sources in the form of distributed generation, constitutes a guarantee of the growing importance of the subject and of the subsequent need for highly trained professional figures capable of facing future challenges.»

I saw their study plan and realized that machines and electrical systems were precisely my line of interest. I wanted to learn more about them. Hence, I changed Programme after the first year and pursued my studies in Electrical Engineering. This Programme has given me a lot, the most I could hope for! The know-how acquired enables me to deal with regulation and policy in the energy sector. A privilege, but also a responsibility. The wiring system is also a huge machine that must function. It serves a project, and as every project demands decisions entailing compromise and balance. I recommend this Programme. Electrical energy is a product of modernity in which humans express the height of their intelligence, both theoretical-speculative and technical-practical, with important repercussions in terms of growth and well-being. Today’s key theme is sustainability. We need no slogans but people capable of analyzing the technical details of issues and of guiding collective behaviour towards a long-term goal of safeguarding the environment.»

Andrea Rosazza Funzionario presso ARERA Autorità di Regolazione per Officer at ARERA, Italian Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and Environment (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 1995 - A-levels centred on humanistic subjects) «I initially enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering Programme. Basic courses were in common with electro-technical engineering (the Programme’s former name).

Simone Pasquini Area Manager for: CESI spa (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 2004 - Qualified technician in Electro-Technical Engineering and Automation) «This Programme gave me excellent theoretical foundations, especially in the mathematical-scientific sector, and a valid specialization on the specific themes of electrical engineering with focus already on the most practical aspects of the job market.

The Programme unquestionably helped me achieve my professional goals. I rapidly found a job in a sector closely related to the themes of my Laurea, and pursued a path of professional growth. I recommend it because the Programme is highly stimulating and educational. Finally, I recall it with pleasure after 20 years!

«Some children dream of becoming fire-fighters or astronauts. I always said I wanted to be a mason. Growing up I changed my mind, but I never doubted my desire to build something: the choice of engineering was evident. Instead, I chose the electrical sector by instinct, after attending an orientation day at the Politecnico. Doubtless some of my hobbies and my parents’ opinion played their part. This Programme was enriching. During the laurea specialistica (equivalent to Master of Science), I spent seven months in the United States while working on my thesis. That experience was followed up by a PhD Programme in Germany. Then I returned to the United States where I worked as Assistant Professor for little less than six years. I had the opportunity to discuss several issues with many colleagues over the years, and I felt that the education received at the Politecnico was aligned with and even exceeded the standard of the best schools in the world. I recommend this Programme. As electrical engineers we are the authors of one of the largest infrastructures ever built by man. Recent concern over environmental pollution and global warming, and the subsequent development of technologies for energy generation from renewable sources and of electrical vehicles are transforming this infrastructure. A remarkable challenge! And this only concerns energy systems. An electrical engineer’s skills can be applied to many sectors: from robotics to music. I also recommend the Politecnico. My experience has always been extremely positive. It features a well organized system without pointless bureaucratic complications.»

Andrea Benigni Full Professor of “Methods for Simulating Energy Systems”, RWTH Aachen University, (Germany), and Director of the “Institute for Energy Systems Engineering”, Forschungszentrum Juelich (Germany) (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 2008 - A-levels centred on humanistic subjects)

«I have always been fascinated by technology since childhood. The large industrial complexes and all the engineering that underpins their every component. My father often took me to his workplace and the huge control panel in the electrical room (with its indicator lights, displays, buttons) left a deep impression in my mind, defining what I would become. A technical institute that could give all the notions needed to design and create the most sophisticated automation systems did not satisfy my desire to learn more about all the concepts acquired. It especially encouraged me to learn new ones. I did not just want to know how to perform certain tasks, I wanted to be part of the mechanism of the machine that drives innovation in the scientific sector that has always been my passion. Among the possible programmes, electrical engineering was the natural continuation of my scientific training. My expectations were not disappointed, quite the reverse... The Programme in Electrical Engineering offered me the opportunity to explore various career pathways, more than I could imagine before I started my university studies. Especially the PhD Programme allowed me to step into the world of research and to follow an occupational pathway that has never ceased to fascinate and involve me with deep enthusiasm.»

Marco Rossi Researcher and Project Manager at RSE S.p.A. - Energy System Research (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 2009 - Qualified Industrial Head Technician specialized in electrotechnology)

«As a student I looked at the Politecnico di Milano with admiration mixed with awe, considering its historical reputation and importance. The Programme in Electrical Engineering offered me a unique educational opportunity to learn from the best teachers in the field and to establish contact with the international context. My expectations were all met. The quality of technical skills acquired during the teaching pathway is undeniable. The difference from senior high schools was evident from the very first day. Study had to be carefully planned, as there were no frequent “tests and oral examinations”, to develop consolidated skills and to successfully face the examination session. Hence, I acquired greater autonomy and responsibility during this Programme. The continuous stimuli received helped me overcome the largest “obstacles” and to learn that goals can only be attained with constant commitment and determination. Finally, the option of working on my thesis abroad further contributed to form an idea of the world, and to approach problems with an overall perspective. I am convinced that this Programme and the qualification obtained especially gave me the opportunity to apply, with an excellent business card, for a position of electrical engineer in a leading multinational in the energy sector. Moreover, with the skills acquired, which underpin my know-how for daily activities, I have achieved my professional goals, one step at a time. I recommend this Programme because, besides the unique know-how in the field of electrical engineering, it offers several opportunities in the job market.»

Simone Cuni CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER at ENEL AND SHIKUN&BINUI INNOVATION INFRALAB LTD (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 2013 - Qualified industrial technician in Electro-Technical Engineering and Automation)

found that the standard is one of the highest, even in the international scene. This is true in terms of study track and related subjects, such as mathematics, computer science, physics and electronics. The multidisciplinary programme allows to learn and approach any type of problems by teaching the best way to face and solve them. In the occupational scene I have realized that this is one of the best things one can learn, as books always present theory and formulae but the method to break down and solve complex problems with an analytical approach is something that can only be learnt. The remarkable professional experience of the Faculty, as well as the organization of lessons and of examinations taught me to work under pressure, to organize the work efficiently, and to correctly and effectively express myself even in public. Each of these factors is then experienced in the occupational scene on a daily basis, and once again it is hard to find the answers in books. The Programme was crucial to achieve my goals. Six years after the Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) I succeeded in achieving the position I had dreamed of since I enrolled at the Politecnico di Milano. The skills acquired have enabled me to successfully discuss topics with leading Italian and international professionals working in the field of electricity distribution, always feeling at ease even in projects requiring cooperation with professionals in sectors other than mine, such as civil engineering or computer science and telecommunications. I had the opportunity to participate in innovative projects concerning smart grids, electrical network automation, implementation of transformation and distribution plants. Now I am contributing to plan and develop network models by using advanced algorithms, machine learning and blockchain techniques. I absolutely recommend this Programme because it is a dynamic, rapidly evolving sector. Furthermore, the energy transition in progress towards electric vehicles will increase opportunities that were unthinkable until a few years ago. Consider the market of renewable energy sources, which is ever seeking new and innovative solutions, or electric mobility, which is expected to develop remarkably over the next decade. And let’s not forget energy efficiency and smart grids that will allow to integrate telecommunication networks with electrical ones. The sector is undergoing an important transformation, and offers many possibilities to a wide range of professional figures related to the Programme in Electrical Engineering, which records one of the highest rates of employment after graduation.»

Andrea Morotti Manager, Electrical Energy Planning at UNARETI S.P.A (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 2013 - Qualified Industrial Head Technician specialized in electrotechnology and automation) «In terms of both know-how and contents, the Programme provides the tools to achieve very high standards. A few years after completing my Laurea, I compared the outcome of various universities, and

This was an additional opportunity for those like me who came from a background of theoretical and humanistic studies, such as A-levels centred on scientific subjects. In fact, this course helped me acquire deep and broad ranging basic learning, which is essential when approaching the job market. In terms of methodology, I learnt to work lucidly under pressure and to face problems rationally and systematically. Nonetheless, the years spent at the Politecnico have left me a heritage of contacts and friends who effectively support me when I face both technical and other problems. The learning acquired has enabled me to successfully approach many job interviews and, thus, to choose my occupational sector and specific area. Even continuing my occupational experience, the know-how and methodology acquired at university have always supported me and distinguished me. I strongly recommend the Programme in Electrical Engineering because, despite its long-standing tradition, it is ever topical and innovative. It guarantees learning that is appreciated in the professional scene, both in traditional sectors, such as the scene of Energy and of Utilities, and in companies operating in technological megatrends. Suffice to consider the great interest shown in recent years in electric mobility and in Smart Grids.»

Dario Polinelli Content Expert Innovation, Turin Hub, at Terna S.p.A. (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 2013 - A-levels centred on scientific subjects - national computer science plan (PNI))

«I chose the Programme in Electrical Engineering for its multidisciplinary and transversal features, which offered me the opportunity to explore various aspects of engineering and to perfect my choice of track during the Programme.

Roberto Zuelli Senior Planning Engineer at EirGrid plc (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 2013 - Diploma of Qualified industrial technician in Electro-Technical Engineering and Automation)

• deep knowledge of topics related to Electrical Engineering and especially electrical systems; • the skill to approach and manage complex problems; • critical analysis of problems.

«This Programme was enriching in every way, especially in terms of:

I absolutely recommend this Programme. During the years at the Politecnico, I was fortunate to interact with highly knowledgeable, helpful and enthusiastic professors, researchers, assistants and PhD students. The possibility of interacting with colleagues from all parts of the world was an additional cultural stimulus, which I still find encouraging. The Programme in Electrical Engineering is challenging but it is especially a remarkable opportunity that broadens the horizons in every way. Briefly, I would most certainly repeat the experience if I were to go back in time, with the additional awareness of the prestigious nature of this Programme and of the university, overall.»

«I chose the Programme in Electrical Engineering especially with a Programme in Industrial Engineering in mind.

Daniele Macalli Specialist in Studies and Models at CESI SPA (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 2015 - A-levels centred on scientific subjects)

The intensive preparation in Physics, Chemistry and Technology received during the years at senior high school, which I completed with very good A-levels, inclined me to seek a programme that had a high content of mathematics, science and technology applied to the real world. The curiosity and fascination I had for electro-technical engineering and for the production of electricity finally helped me solve my doubts concerning the programme. At the start of the academic year I did not exactly know and, I believe, neither did the other ‘freshmen’, what it meant to be a university student. I saw five long years stretching ahead of me, and I had no idea how far I would have to stretch myself to achieve certain results. There was uncertainty, but the prevalent feeling was curiosity. I could finally focus on interesting subjects I liked. I wanted to understand the purpose of derivatives and integrals, to apply all those abstract concepts learned during the years at senior high school to something practical and functional in the real world. The Programme laid the foundations on which I could build my profession. The knowledge of physical, electric and magnetic phenomena is essential to create study models. The knowledge of the latest developments in the electrical sector is also very useful to approach the job market aligned with the times, ready to anticipate changes and to offer new methods that would be more effective and profitable. Analysis and synthesis skills are the most precious skills in the job market, where results do not always concern numbers but are always important.

Finally, the Programme in Electrical Engineering contributed considerably to my career. The theoretical and technical know-how is essential to obtain profit in a technical position, such as my current one. A few years after my Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science), I am proud to still refer to some academic texts, to the handouts of the various courses. I expect all the skills developed during the years at university to be useful in building my career, from mathematical methods to breaking down a triple phase electric power system into the various items of the statement of assets and liabilities. I absolutely recommend this Programme. The figure of the Electrical Engineer is still widely appreciated and sought after, both in Italy and abroad, for the many positions he can hold. Even if society develops, along with electronics and artificial intelligence, electricity is and will remain a crucial element for the economic and technological development of any country, region or company. I always like to invite reflection with this question: have you ever attempted to imagine your life, and the world around you, without electricity?» Marco Roncareggi

Technician at Terna S.p.A. (Laurea (equivalent to Bachelor of Science) in 2018 - A-levels centred on scientific subjects - national computer science plan (PNI))

«I chose this Programme because, besides being aligned with my inclinations, it offers exhaustive and versatile knowledge of the “energy” sector. The Programme offered me in-depth knowledge even of topics discussed in very specific energy sectors. Moreover, I found various highly topical themes. The opportunity to obtain a Laurea Magistrale (equivalent to Master of Science) entirely in English is certainly an asset. The Programme contributed to help me achieve my professional goals. Indeed, I very soon found employment with the Italian national electricity dispatching system at Terna Rete Italia. The dream of working for them goes back to my university days. I absolutely recommend this Programme. Looking into the future, it is clear that the energy sector plays a crucial role. I deem that the position of electrical engineer is more central and versatile, both in the technical sector and in other aspects of the same. The Programme in Electrical Engineering at the Politecnico di Milano offers complete, in-depth learning that keeps up with the challenges of our time.»