<p><span class="p-body">As Technical Editor for the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), Christinne Govereau knows clear communication is important in the ever-changing world of energy. An alumna of the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-professional-writing.html" title="Master of Science in Professional Writing">MS in Professional Writing (MSPW)</a> program at NYU School of Professional Studies, Christinne's skills are an essential part of creating more accessible information for the public and energy stakeholders alike.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Read on to find out how Christinne's journey was shaped by her time at NYU SPS, her advice to prospective students, and her plans to influence the future of technical writing in the energy sector.</span></p>
<p> </p>
Christinne's Day-to-Day
<p><span class="p-body">"At the US Energy Information Administration, our mission is to help people understand energy," Christinne explains. Ensuring the clarity and accessibility of content that ranges from market trends and statistical analyses to projections is at the top of her mind each day. Her role is pivotal in shaping the narrative around energy, making it understandable to a broad audience. "I review our public-facing and internal products before publication online...A number of our reports are often used as source material by national and international news organizations," she adds.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Collaboration is key for Christinne's success in her daily professional life, particularly when dealing with documents authored by multiple writers. "One of my roles is to make those reports sound like one voice—the agency voice," she mentions, shedding light on the effort required to unify diverse analytical perspectives into a cohesive narrative.</span></p>
<p> </p>
From Literature Lover to Meticulous Technical Editor
<p>Christinne's path to professional writing was not linear. Initially drawn to teaching British Literature, a serendipitous opportunity led her to the IRS, where her writing skills shone, ultimately guiding her towards editing. "My editing career began, and in truth, I believe nothing is a mistake," she reflects. This pivot was supported by her decision to enroll in the MSPW program at NYU SPS, where she made it her mission to deepen her understanding of digital communications.</p>
<p>Her experience at NYU SPS equipped her with the skills needed to navigate and contribute to the evolving landscape of professional writing, from managing social media to working with infographics and beyond.</p>
<p> </p>
Advice for Future Writers
<p><span class="p-body">For current or prospective Professional Writing students who are interested in working in the public sector, Christinne offers her expert advice.<br>
</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">"The pathways program on the federal government hiring site, <a href="http://usajobs.gov/" title="usajobs.gov">usajobs.gov</a>, is a great resource for both paid and unpaid internships in a federal agency. I have worked with interns through this program, and it's a great way to get some experience."</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">When interviewing potential hires, Christinne has a specific set of skills in mind to look for. She says, "I look for strong writing skills, grammar knowledge, familiarity with style manuals, and solid plain writing skills…I am not interested in whether or not they know anything about the content (energy) as much as the skills I outlined above." Take note, technical writing hopefuls!</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Christinne has reached this exciting time in her career thanks to her hard work, genuine passion for her craft, and the skills she's learned along the way. Start honing your skills by pursuing an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-professional-writing.html" title="MS in Professional Writing at NYU SPS">MS in Professional Writing at NYU SPS</a> today.</span></p>
Anyone who is interested in a federal career as a writer, whether it be a speechwriter, social media manager, or other communications specialist, should become proficient in plain writing."