Vignesh Gaikwad

About Vignesh Gaikwad

I am an MPA graduate from SIPA, concentrating in Climate, Energy and Environment and Specialising in Technology, Media and Communication. My coursework develops my skillsets in climate policy analysis, just transition frameworks, climate finance, energy project finance, carbon accounting (upstream and downstream), impact investment, sustainability reporting, project management, campaign management, emerging technologies and data analysis, supported by strong research and writing skills. My passion revolves around the climate impact on labor markets, green jobs, and just energy transition.In the age of generative AI, I believe adaptability and critical thinking are the most valuable skills as it helps solving complex problems that are not limited to one field entirely. My experiences in UX research, political consultancy, ethnographic studies, academia, and digital advertising demonstrate my leadership and adaptability. I developed my critical and design thinking abilities as a student at Columbia University and TISS, and as a teaching associate at India\'s top b-schools - IIM Ahmedabad and SPJIMR.My profile blends my educational background in Information Technology, labor relations, and policy-making with my work experiences, enabling me to design robust solutions and thrive in challenging environments.

Experience

1. Public Policy Intern

   Citizens Union

   Jan 2026 — Present · NY, US

Education

• St. Xavier's College

  Bachelor's degree, Information Technology

  2010 — 2013

• Tata Institute of Social Sciences

  Certificate in Research Methodology, Management and Labour Studies

• Columbia | SIPA

  Master of Public Administration - MPA, Public Administration

• Tata Institute of Social Sciences

  Master of Arts (M.A.), Globalisation and Labour

  2016 — 2018