The Council on Women in Energy and Environmental Leadership (CWEEL) Luncheon Panel: Career Perspectives in Cleantech from Women Leaders

The Council on Women in Energy and Environmental Leadership (CWEEL) Luncheon Panel: Career Perspectives in Cleantech from Women Leaders

By Aldrich Reuelraj and Ida Namur At the Fifth Annual Clean Energy and Sustainability Extravaganza at George Washington University (GWU) on February 15, 2019, attendees participated...

Skills you need to succeed in green energy and sustainability jobs

Skills you need to succeed in green energy and sustainability jobs

As the demand for renewable energy continues to increase, the industry is looking to recruit high-caliber candidates to drive green energy business forward.  For example, according to the “2017 U.S. Energy and Employment Report” published by the U.S. Department of Energy,the solar workforce increased by 25% in 2016, while wind employment increased by 32%. “Now Hiring: The Growth of America’s Clean Energy & Sustainability Jobs”, by the Environmental Defense Fund provides examples of jobs spanning energy efficiency and renewable energy, waste reduction, natural resources conservation and environmental education.

Individuals looking to enter these professions in the clean energy and sustainability sectors need to demonstrate competency in communication, an active interest in green energy, and a natural aptitude for all things technical. For those hoping to pursue leadership roles, an energy leader should be able to manage geographically diverse teams, coordinate complex technical projects and possess the ability to identify and run with new ideas.