From Entry to Executive: Building Your Clean Energy Career as a Woman
As we celebrate International Women's Day, it's essential to recognize and promote the pivotal roles women can and do play in the clean energy sector, a key driver of global sustainability. Despite historical underrepresentation, women are increasingly influencing this dynamic field, bringing unique perspectives and driving innovation. This International Women's Day, we are reminded of the progress made and the journeys still ahead. This blog offers a roadmap for women at all stages of their careers, from those taking their first steps in clean energy to seasoned professionals aiming for executive roles. Here, you'll find key strategies, insights, and inspiration to navigate and succeed in the rapidly growing clean energy landscape, contributing not only to personal career success but also to the broader goals of environmental sustainability and gender equality in the workplace.
Women make up 33% of the clean energy workforce. This marks a turning point for female professionals in the industry. We have a long way to go, but we can build on this progress as the sector plans to create 139 million jobs by 2030.
The latest numbers paint an encouraging picture. Some organizations now have 66% women in their ranks. This is a big deal as it means that they're performing better than the industry measure of 32%. The story changes dramatically across different positions though. Leadership roles in sub-Saharan Africa's renewable energy companies show only 25% of women at the helm.
This piece maps out career paths for women in energy - from starting positions to the executive suite. You'll find practical ways to build your career in this fast-growing sector. The industry's impact is massive, adding £150 billion to the UK economy alone. This guide helps both newcomers and professionals looking to switch fields.
Starting Your Clean Energy Career
Clean energy jobs grew 4.0% in 2021, outpacing the overall U.S. employment growth of 2.8%. The sector now provides opportunities in a variety of disciplines, making it the perfect time for women to start their careers in this field.
Entry-level roles in clean energy
The renewable energy sector offers several great starting positions. Solar installer trainees work with experienced professionals to learn basic photovoltaic installation methods. Wind turbine technician apprentices get hands-on experience with maintenance and repairs, though they must be comfortable working at heights up to 300 feet.
Energy efficiency analysts help businesses and homeowners cut their consumption. Renewable energy sales associates connect customers with eco-friendly products and services. Research assistants at universities and private institutions get valuable exposure to state-of-the-art developments in the field.
Required skills and qualifications
A career in clean energy needs both technical expertise and people skills. The technical requirements include:
Engineering fundamentals
Data analysis capabilities
Project management proficiency
Familiarity with industry software
Employers value skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and adaptability. Knowledge of renewable energy technologies, energy markets, and relevant regulations helps advance your career.
Where to find job opportunities
The Department of Energy's Clean Energy Corps application portal serves as a great starting point. Many leading employers have dedicated programs, including:
EDF Renewables
Ørsted
RWE Renewables
Siemens Gamesa
SSE
The Young Energy Professionals (YEP) Forum welcomes students and professionals with up to ten years of experience. They organize networking events, panels, and visits to energy infrastructure sites.
Starting salaries range from £19,000 to £28,000, based on the role, company, and location. The average wage for renewable energy professionals stands at £38,252. The sector continues to grow rapidly, with offshore wind alone expected to support over 104,000 roles by 2030.
Real-world experience through internships, community energy projects, and personal renewable energy initiatives makes job applications stronger. Professional certifications from organizations like the European Energy Center (ECC) in Solar PV, Electric Vehicles, and Wind Power boost your credibility.
A successful career in the clean energy sector depends on becoming skilled at renewable energy technologies. Knowledge of these technologies and the right certifications are the foundations of professional growth.
Key renewable energy technologies
Solar energy is one of our most abundant resources. The Earth receives enough solar energy in one hour to meet global energy needs for an entire year. Solar technologies work through photovoltaic panels or concentrated solar radiation systems that provide heat, cooling, and electricity generation.
Wind power leads to renewable electricity production with both onshore and offshore turbines. These systems turn kinetic energy into electrical power through advanced gear mechanisms and generators. Water movement through dams and reservoirs powers hydropower systems, which are now the largest renewable source in the electricity sector.
Geothermal energy draws thermal power from the Earth's interior through wells. This method works best in hydrothermal reservoirs that have run without issues for over 100 years. Ocean energy remains in the early development stages and uses seawater's kinetic and thermal properties.
Certifications that matter
The Association of Energy Engineers' prestigious Certified Renewable Energy Professional (REP™) certification focuses on renewable energy generation, production, and storage. REPs help corporations set sustainability goals and choose suitable renewable technologies.
Other valuable certifications include:
LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) - recognizes expertise in sustainable building design
Certified Energy Manager (CEM) - demonstrates proficiency in energy management and efficiency improvements
Certified Decarbonization Professional by ASHRAE
These certifications boost credibility and create advancement opportunities in the renewable energy sector. The Renewable Energy Institute also provides specialized training in hydrogen energy, carbon finance, and energy storage solutions.
Professional development is vital as the industry evolves. Regular participation in workshops, webinars, and industry conferences will give a strong grasp of emerging technologies and best practices. This dedication to continuous learning especially benefits women who want to establish themselves as authorities in specific renewable energy domains.
Growing Your Professional Network
Professional networks boost career advancement opportunities in the clean energy sector. Research shows that exposure and connections lead to 60% of career advancement opportunities.
Industry events and conferences
Clean energy conferences provide unmatched ways to connect with industry leaders. The Future Leaders conference in London and the World Hydrogen Summit rank among the top networking events. These gatherings draw over 90,000 attendees from seven product sectors.
The Women in Renewables Alliance holds regional dialogs quarterly to discuss project viewpoints and workforce development. The Energy Tech Summit combines innovation workshops with networking opportunities.
Online communities for women in energy
The Women In Renewable Energy (WIRE) Network helps women working in energy across island nations. WIRE picks 12 women yearly for their flagship mentorship program. The two-year program transforms mentees into mentors in the second year and creates a 20-person cohort.
The Global Women's Network for the Energy Transition (GWNET) links women worldwide through their state-of-the-art platform. The Women's Energy Council now has an active network of over 2,300 senior female executives across six continents.
Finding the right mentor
Research shows women thrive with a close inner circle of female peers who give gender-specific career advice. The Clean Energy Council's Women in Renewables Mentoring Program has matched mentees with experienced professionals yearly since 2021.
The ReWiRE mentoring program, 8 years old, targets middle managers who want senior positions and current senior managers seeking board roles. Participants commit to at least six sessions over 12 months.
Lean In Energy provides quick guidance through one-hour focused sessions with industry experts. Their smart algorithm pairs mentees with mentors based on detailed profiles and keeps a 1-to-4 mentor-to-mentee ratio in structured six-month programs.
Career growth in renewable energy needs smart planning and constant skill building. A newer study, published in by shows that women hold merely 25% of leadership rolesin clean energy companies. This indicates substantial room for growth and new chances.
From specialist to manager
Moving from technical specialist to management requires new skills. The core team focuses on:
Delegating effectively
Time management and prioritization
Building team resilience
Understanding corporate culture
Many organizations provide specialized training programs that help new managers. Getting advice from current leaders and peers is a great way to get support during this change.
Programs like WePOWER show success through complete mentorship and technical skills training. These programs help spot early potential in women professionals.
Negotiating promotions
Market knowledge makes negotiation positions stronger. Renewable energy workers report higher satisfaction in:
Salary levels
Job satisfaction
Personal value
CEO approval (9% higher than traditional energy)
Professionals should highlight their technical expertise and leadership skills during negotiations. Studies show employees in renewable energy recommend their companies 7% more than those in traditional energy sectors.
The sector expects to create 14 million new jobs by 2030. This growth creates many chances to move up. Women should pursue leadership roles, take smart risks, and create opportunities for themselves and future generations.
Conclusion
Clean energy offers exciting career paths for ambitious women professionals. The sector will createprojected growth of 139 million jobs by 2030, opening up opportunities in technical, managerial, and leadership roles.
Women can advance rapidly in this evolving field by combining technical expertise with professional connections and ongoing learning. Knowledge of renewable technologies, strong networks, and relevant certifications create a solid foundation for career growth.
Current data shows 33% female representation in the industry. We have a long way to go, but we can build on this progress. Women should leverage mentorship programs, industry events, and leadership development resources. These opportunities are a great way to get access to the 25% of leadership positions that women currently hold in the sector.
Clean energy careers let women create meaningful change and achieve professional success. The sector's employees report higher satisfaction with their salaries, job fulfilment, and workplace value. Women can shape the future of sustainable energy through smart planning and active involvement in professional communities.
Further Reading
There are some excellent books out there to help you develop your career – I’ve pulled together a list by topic:
Leadership & Career Advancement
"Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead" – Sheryl Sandberg
"How Women Rise: Break the 12 Habits Holding You Back from Your Next Raise, Promotion, or Job" – Sally Helgesen & Marshall Goldsmith
"The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance—What Women Should Know" – Katty Kay & Claire Shipman
"Own It: The Power of Women at Work" – Sallie Krawcheck
"Women Don't Ask: The High Cost of Avoiding Negotiation—and Positive Strategies for Change" – Linda Babcock & Sara Laschever
Entrepreneurship & Financial Success
"We Should All Be Millionaires: A Woman’s Guide to Earning More, Building Wealth, and Gaining Economic Power" – Rachel Rodgers
"Girl on Fire: How to Choose Yourself, Burn the Rule Book, and Blaze Your Own Trail in Life and Business" – Cara Alwill Leyba
"She Means Business: Turn Your Ideas into Reality and Become a Wildly Successful Entrepreneur" – Carrie Green
Workplace Challenges & Navigating Bias
"Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office: Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers" – Lois P. Frankel
"The Likeability Trap: How to Break Free and Succeed as You Are" – Alicia Menendez
"Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men" – Caroline Criado Perez
Work-Life Balance & Personal Development
"Drop the Ball: Achieving More by Doing Less" – Tiffany Dufu
"Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts." – Brené Brown
"Playing Big: Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead" – Tara Mohr
"Work, Parent, Thrive: 12 Science-Based Strategies to Ditch Guilt, Manage Overwhelm, and Grow Connection (When Everything Feels Like Too Much)" – Yael Schonbrun
