Katelyn Parsons

I grew up in California and Oregon, where being close to nature sparked my early interest in sustainability and climate. I studied international business as an undergraduate, and after graduation, I began my career at Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Over four years, I worked my way up to Branch Manager, leading teams and managing the operations of a multimillion-dollar business. That experience gave me a strong foundation in leadership and problem-solving, and it ultimately reinforced my desire to build a career focused on the clean energy transition.

I chose Ross because of the strength of its community and the opportunities to learn by doing. I chose to start my Erb Institute dual-degree at the School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) so I could first build the environmental knowledge I was missing. That foundation gave me a lens through which to view the MBA and the world of business, and it continues to shape how I think about the systems, policies, and infrastructure needed for climate solutions. With the combined strengths of Ross and SEAS, I’m excited to pursue a career at the intersection of energy, investment, and infrastructure.

At Ross, I’m involved with Michigan Climate Venture, the Energy Club, the Ross Outdoors Club, and the Erb Institute. I’ve also enjoyed competing in the ARC ESG case competition and helping organize Ross Climate Week, which has given me the chance to put sustainability and leadership into practice. Outside of school, ask me about my favorite wine of the moment, my experience walking the Camino de Santiago, what I’m cooking lately, or my favorite BravoTV series. Go Blue!