Ethan Gacek is a dual-degree Master in Public Policy and Master in Business Administration student at Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Business School. He was accepted into the Growth Lab’s 2024 Summer Internship program and contributed to the ongoing project with Azerbaijan.
Why did you apply to the Growth Lab Summer Internship?
I was excited to apply because of the unique opportunity it provided to research real-world policy questions, grounded in rich academic theory. The Growth Lab’s approach to analyzing economic complexity and diversification, applied to complicated policy contexts around the world, was compelling. Having the opportunity to specifically focus on Azerbaijan’s economic constraints and avenues for green growth was a unique experience I doubt I would have been able to explore without the Growth Lab’s support.
What did you work on?
I focused on green growth as a lever of economic diversification for the economy of Azerbaijan. Forecasted declines in oil-based revenues – the main engine of the economy for decades – combined with a renewed focus on renewable energy as the country gears up to host COP29 in November make this policy lever one of particular interest to Azerbaijan. More specifically, I conducted research on how industrial parks and policy can be “greened” in the context of Azerbaijan. I identified specific product mixes and industries that were strong candidates for a focus on green industrial policy based on factors including their energy and capital intensity, economic complexity, and trade balance relative to key trading partners. I also identified the organizational and operational capabilities that Azerbaijan would be required to deploy in order to enact a green industrial policy platform.
In what ways were you challenged?
On the technical side of things, I faced a learning curve in developing an understanding of the Growth Lab’s methodologies and learning to “think like an economist” given my previous professional training in strategy and consulting. Identifying appropriate data sources and developing concordance amongst different data also proved a worthwhile challenge that stretched my R coding skills. Last, embedding myself in Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Economy required navigating bureaucratic hurdles that – once overcome – led to the development of fruitful relationships.
What was your most exciting/surprising experience?
Having the opportunity to live in Baku this summer was incredibly exciting. Between preparations for COP29 in November and Formula 1 in September, the city pulses with an energy and dynamism I have rarely experienced before. Learning about Azerbaijan’s history – from its tradition in weaving to modern glass skyscraper building projects – was also enriching.
What advice would you give to future interns?
I would advise interns to lean on the shoulders of their Growth Lab colleagues and the prior research done in the specific country in which they are working. Building off a current country engagement, ensuring that one’s work is replicable and consistent (e.g., using the same data sources and methodologies) is key to success. As for on-the-ground experiences, it’s important to have a plan of what one hopes to accomplish but also to be ready to adapt and pivot quickly based on specific stakeholder interests and contextual factors.
What’s next for you?
After finishing my first year in the MPP program this past year, I am returning to Cambridge but going across the Charles to start my MBA at HBS. Then, I will spend a third year finishing degree requirements for both programs. After graduation, I aim to work in the international development sector advancing sustainable, climate-conscious growth policies.
