VELCO
Burke Schmollinger is an experienced energy sector professional currently serving as a System Operator at Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO) since February 2023. Prior to this role, Burke held various positions at DGC Ops from April 2017 to December 2022, including Operations & Maintenance Manager at the Mariposa Energy Project in Byron, California, and Lead Shift Operator during the commissioning and startup of a 2x1 Combined Cycle power plant. From June 2014 to April 2017, Burke worked at NRG Energy as a Power Plant Operator and Lead Control Room Operator, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Burke began a career in the US Navy from July 2009 to February 2014 as an EM (Nuke), where responsibilities included monitoring reactor systems and analyzing data related to power generation.
VELCO
Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO) is Vermont’s statewide electric transmission provider whose sights are set on creating a sustainable Vermont through our people, assets, relationships and operating model. Formed in 1956 when local Vermont utilities established the nation’s first “transmission only” company to access clean hydro power from New York, VELCO remains unique in two important ways: 1. our ownership comprises the state’s 17 distribution utilities and a public benefits corporation; and, 2. our for-profit status is structured to return cooperative-like value to our owners, their customers, and every Vermonter. VELCO’s system now includes: 740 miles of transmission lines; 55 substations, switching stations and terminal facilities; 13,000 acres of rights-of-way; a statewide emergency service radio system; and, a 1,600-mile fiber optic network that monitors and controls the electric system and helps to deliver broadband services to Vermonters. Headquartered in Rutland, Vermont, VELCO employees strive to give Vermont’s utilities and their customers a reliable high-voltage grid, a strong unified voice on regional energy issues, and continued access to safe, reliable, cost-effective electricity.