CIGRE’s First Global Young Engineer Internship and Exchange Program: Building the Next Generation of Power System Leaders

On 17 November 2025, CIGRE officially launched its first Global Young Engineer Internship and Exchange Program, jointly implemented with China Southern Power Grid (CSG) at the CSG Science and Technology Exchange Center in Guangzhou. This initiative represents a significant step in reinforcing CIGRE’s long-standing commitment to international cooperation, structured knowledge transfer, and the professional development of young engineers.

The program was conceived following exchanges during the CIGRE Paris Session 2024, where discussions with CSG colleagues highlighted the potential for a dedicated global exchange mechanism. With the strong support of CSG’s and CIGRE’s leadership, this concept was developed into an operational program within a short time frame.

Interest from the global CIGRE community exceeded expectations. A total of 76 young engineers from 19 countries applied for the program. After a rigorous and transparent selection process—jointly conducted by CSG and CIGRE NGN and based on professional background, technical competence, and diversity considerations—10 candidates from six countries were selected for the inaugural cohort.

The opening ceremony reflected the high level of institutional support for the initiative. Mr. Meng Zhenping, Chairman of CSG and Mr. Wang Shaowu, Deputy General Manager of CSG, as well as Mr. Jiang Zhitao, Vice Mayor of Guangzhou, underlined the importance of international collaboration in addressing future power system challenges. During the program, participants gained insight into the operation of complex AC/DC hybrid power grids, including technical visits to key facilities such as the 110 kV Lieqiao Substation, exemplifying the integration of modern power engineering with urban and environmental requirements.

The internship and exchange program runs from 17 November to 14 December, hosted primarily by the CSG Guangzhou Power Supply Bureau. It includes more than 50 structured activities, combining technical visits, research-oriented exchanges, and expert sessions covering digital grids, clean energy integration, innovation processes, and the interaction between research, industry, and system operation. In parallel, the program encourages professional dialogue and long-term networking among young engineers from different regions.

Beyond its immediate educational outcomes, this first edition of the program demonstrates CIGRE’s broader objective of strengthening global technical dialogue and fostering a new generation of engineers with an international perspective. In doing so, it contributes to the alignment of technical approaches and the dissemination of best practices across power systems worldwide.

CIGRE wishes to express its sincere appreciation to China Southern Power Grid for its vision, commitment, and exemplary cooperation in establishing and hosting this program. Particular thanks are extended to Dr. Xu Shukai and the CSG teams involved, as well as to Marcio Szechtman, Conor Mulholland, and the CIGRE Next Generation Network for their essential contributions. Finally, CIGRE acknowledges the participating young engineers, whose motivation and professionalism reflect the future strength of our community.

As the year draws to a close, I would like to extend my Season’s Greetings to all members, partners, and contributors of the CIGRE community worldwide, with best wishes for a peaceful festive season and a successful year ahead.

Konstantin O. Papailiou