Emma Louise Carson
Emma L. Carson is a Senior Operations Research Analyst at the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), where she leverages her expertise in mathematics, data analysis, and energy systems to optimize hydroelectric power generation and ensure efficient energy distribution. Her work spans multiple programs, including the Columbia River Treaty between the U.S. and Canada, Environmental Impact Statement Columbia River System Operation studies, and the Energy Imbalance Market Settlements Project. Emma frequently travels to dams across the U.S. and Canada, collaborating with PhDs and other professionals to model reservoirs, regulate water flows, and maintain reliable international water management relationships.
Before joining BPA, Emma served in the United States Navy as a Petty Officer 2nd Class, managing logistics for the Supply Department of the 8th Division and supervising a team of 16 sailors during deployments in the Middle East and Asia. She also gained experience in education, teaching college-level math courses at Western Technical College and supporting students in interdisciplinary programs, reflecting her commitment to mentorship and knowledge sharing. Emma holds a Master of Science in Mathematics from Emporia State University and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Beyond her professional work, she volunteers as a Chemistry Lab Educator at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), demonstrating her passion for STEM education. Known for her analytical rigor, coding skills, and dedication to process optimization, Emma is committed to using data-driven decision-making to improve operational efficiency and create measurable impact in the energy sector.
Emma is a visionary. In recent years, she felt a strong calling to serve humanity, utilizing a combination of my lifelong knowledge, wisdom, skills, and talents. She desires to bring love, hope, joy, peace, elegance, and beauty to the world. She wants to uplift and inspire people with unconditional love. In addition, she has an unstoppable drive to create a bright future for humanity. Emma has various interests. She loves writing and is currently authoring books. She also loves dancing. Furthermore, she has been creating music and songs in her spare time. Below are the links to her personal platform.
https://www.youtube.com/@The_Rose_Light/shorts
• Teaching License - Adult Education, Mathematics, Chemistry
• Executive Development
• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire- B.S.
• Emporia State University- M.S.
• Administrator's Excellence Award (AEA)
• Multiple “On-the-Spot” Awards (2022–2024)
• Seven “People-to-People” Awards (Bulk Marketing)
• Power Services Award for Project Team – BEETS – Jul 25, 2023
• 2022 BPA Values Award – Jul 19, 2022
• Energy Efficiency’s DR TOE Award (Three times)
• Phi Theta Kappa 2015 Gold Star Instructor Award
• AFCEA STEM Teachers Scholarship & Grant – 2010
• Hard Charger of the Month (twice)
• Good Conduct Medal
• Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
• National Defense Service Medal
• Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist
• Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to an unwavering belief in my ability to reach my goals. I draw strength from this belief when I face challenges.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is very simple: Don't give up.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice would be belief and persistence. I never stopped believing in myself despite crushing challenges in the past. I followed my heart and pursued my goals.
For example, I write down my favorite inspiring quotes and put them on the wall, on the mirror, or in my pocket so I can see them all the time to remind me not to quit. My favorite quote in my earlier years was, “Where there is a will, there is a way.” Later, I adopted my Navy Boot Camp mantra, “Easy day, every day!” When life felt very hard, I would say it out loud and feel better immediately. I just kept going, day after day, year after year.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges are the volatility of the energy market. Power prices are impacted by many factors, such as supply fluctuations, demand fluctuations, extreme weather (heat wave or cold snap), and policy changes. This poses challenges to the forecast models in power generation planning and market participation.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
It has been the theme of my entire life to inspire people and serve a mission larger than myself. For example, I joined the Navy because I wanted to serve our country. I pursued degrees in mathematics and chemistry because I saw a shortage of talents in the STEM fields. I pursued teaching licenses, student-taught in middle and high schools, and taught full time at a technical college all because I wanted to inspire students to have successful lives. I worked in the Federal government to serve the public, ensure the Pacific Northwest has reliable clean power supply. I am also a musical artist and song writer to uplift and serve humanity.
