From Energy Industry Leader to Aspiring Artist: Galbraith’s Journey Back to San Jac
Native Houstonian Dennis Galbraith earned his business degree from San Jacinto College in 1978. After a career in the energy sector, he has now embarked on a new chapter by pursuing an arts degree at San Jac.
Galbraith spent his career managing major projects in procurement, contract development, and strategic cost analysis. His contract negotiation and risk assessment expertise made him a transformational leader in the energy industry for many years.
Beginning his career in the nuclear engineering department in 1974 with Houston Lighting and Power, Galbraith later transitioned into roles focusing on uranium fuel contracts and supply chain management. His career ultimately evolved to overseeing power plant construction contracts with a team of six people across the U.S., and he worked with both RRI Energy and NRG Energy during his tenure.
In April 2023, after nearly 50 years in the workforce, Galbraith retired and decided to follow his passion for art.
"I first became interested in art in 2008 after attending the Bayou City Art Festival," he said. "The experience inspired me to start drawing, particularly with charcoal and graphite pencils."
While he took art classes at Rice University and the Art League of Houston, as well as pursued self-study, Galbraith felt a formal arts education would be the next step after retirement. This led him back to San Jac.
Now enrolled in various art classes, Galbraith is working toward an Associate of Applied Science in fine arts, focusing on both traditional and digital design. He enjoys the freedom of learning new skills at his own pace, without the same pressures as younger students who are just starting their career journey. From the first drawing course to two-dimensional design, he is fully committed to expanding his artistic abilities and embracing the learning process.
Galbraith is also grateful for the tuition exemption for students over 65, an added benefit of returning to school.
“At my age, I get the benefit of some programs the state offers, and I really appreciate that,” he said. “I understand it depends on available space and funding, but I haven’t had any issues. There’s always been room for me in the classes I’ve needed, and I’ve had a great experience.”
Galbraith believes in the importance of lifelong learning and pursuing passions, even after a successful career in a different field. He is excited to give back to his classmates.
“Who knows?” he said. “Someday I could even be an adjunct professor here at San Jac.”
For others considering a return to college later in life, his advice is simple: “Just do it. Don’t put it off.”
In his view, returning to school has been both rewarding and fulfilling, providing him with an outlet for his creativity. Whether experimenting with design principles or exploring digital art tools like Photoshop, Galbraith is excited about his new path in the world of fine arts.
