I recently heard a New York City deputy mayor refer to transportation as “quicksand,” a feature of all cities so invisibly but deeply impactful to quality of life that it’s nearly impossible to not get sucked in as a public servant. I chose a career in planning in general to effectuate progressive and sustainable policies, but, like many women, I sort of fell into the transportation quicksand; in my case, this happened by opportunity upon taking my first job after graduate school at DOT. I haven’t looked back.In my current role, developing specific, balanced solutions that work for each market we enter is a rewarding challenge. We know that motor vehicles account for approximately 80% of CO2 emissions in America, an already untenable statistic that turns unthinkable in places where people are solely reliant on gas-burning cars for even simple errands. But every place is different in their specific needs. Along with EV charging, many are also looking to re-allocate uses at the curb, for instance, choosing things like dedicated bus and bike lanes in lieu of private car storage. As a company, we bear in mind that there’s always a bigger picture that we’re part of and positively changing, which makes this work very fulfilling.

Find and stick to people who are curious about and open to new perspectives, and who aren’t deterred by temporary setbacks. Be patient. There’s so much work left to do to combat the effects of climate change, and so much to learn. There’s also so much good momentum to build on, and every contribution matters.

As a child I wanted to be a medical doctor. When I uncovered water quality issues in my local river, I realized I wanted to do something to solve the pollution problem. When I discovered the widespread prevalence and toxicity of PFAS "forever chemicals", I decided to dedicate my life to solving human health issues and spun out Aclarity, whose mission is to manage and permanently "destroying PFAS forever."

Entrepreneurship is hard. Build a network of people who have been in your shoes so they can coach you through it and cheer you on. Build your team with people who are better than you and who are passionate in your company's mission. Be honest with yourself, your team, your stakeholders, customers, and friends. Hold yourself and your team accountable. Build a protoytpe as fast as you can and test it with real customers at real sites. Fail fast, pivot, and celebrate success. Enjoy the ride!

I decided to prioritize sustainability because I believe in the importance of protecting our planet while I can for future generations. Driving an electric car is one way, I reduce my carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. Additionally, if I am given the choice to go paperless, which helps to conserve resources and reduce waste, I opt in. Working at Citizens Energy Corp, a corporation that not only provide clean energy from solar power but also gives back to the community, aligns with my values. It is fulfilling to be part of an organization that empowers people to make eco-friendly choices while supporting the community well-being.

Being from the islands, I've witnessed firsthand how the impact of climate change such as hurricanes can devastate our communities. These experiences have reinforced the importance of sustainability and resilience. Going green is not just a choice but a necessity for protecting our environment and ensuring our communities are better prepared for the future.  I would encourage my neighbors to consider the long-term benefits of going green. My journey started with small steps, like going paperless and driving an electric car, which have helped reduce my environmental impact while making life simpler. Working at JOE-4-SUN, a company committed to providing clean energy though solar power, has deepened my commitment. It is not just about reducing waste or saving energy--- it's about contributing to a healthier, more resilient community. When we embrace sustainable practices, we help safeguard the small islands like my hometown against the increasing intensity of storms and other climate-related challenges. I suggest starting with manageable steps, like reducing paper usage or exploring renewable energy options. Every small action adds up, and together, we can make a significant difference. The satisfaction of knowing you are part of a movement towards a sustainable future is incredibly rewarding. Plus, the benefits, like saving money on energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint, are tangible and worthwhile.

I work for a company that prioritizes sustainability, so it fits perfectly with my personal goals.

If you are not part of an environmental organization that prioritizes sustainability, do all the little things that help protect the environment for years to come.

I decided in collaboration with my then-business partner, but the decision was completely in alignment with my values. I felt that if I wasn't going to be present for my children at home, I wanted to be able to look them in the eye and tell them that if I wasn't home for pick up (or other similar moments), it was because I was working to try to make the world a better place.

The clean energy transition needs everyone — literally every role, every skill set, every everything, so find the places where you can contribute and start contributing. You don't have to wait for an invitation or an opportunity. look for the gaps and fill them.

We believe it is important to prioritize sustainability to decrease the effects of climate change.

Even small changes can make a difference, it is hard to do the right thing especially when it comes to protecting the environment.

There are abundant resources in water sources. I did scientific research on ion separation during my PhD study. Lithium extraction as part of my PhD research has significant impact on future clean energy industry and electrification transition. So, commercialization of emerging technology is what I am pursing right now, and I believe green lithium extraction will make the lithium battery and EV industry more environmentally sustainable.

I really encourage researchers who hold technologies try to commercialize the research results. Engineering research has to be really applied instead of staying in the lab all the time. Looking for business partners or technical team would be so important in entrepreneurship journey.

For the first 13 years of my life, we lived in Kangemi, shanties in Nairobi, Kenya, I saw and experienced firsthand showering in a bathroom without a roof as well as full of holes on the side, though we moved up economically and left the neighborhood, I have never forgotten that image. I learned at an early age that disenfranchised people have less power to change the macro framework within which they exist. My belief that "Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right." (Psalm 106:3) moved me in the direction of housing and climate justice - working to help others access resources, have meaningful participation in stakeholder processes and economically benefit from climate and housing policy.

To be sensitive and responsive to the needs and ideas of/from the most vulnerable among us. To be authentic and honest, and to embrace dialogue, every person one meets is first human before their position, wealth, or lack of it.

When I was studying physics in college, I took two classes that were instrumental in setting me on a course for my career. The first was an elective focused on the physics, engineering, and economics of energy sources with a particular focus on clean energy for the future. The second was a class in the business school about tech startups and innovation, through which I was able to visit a number of companies from startups to big tech firms. From there, I knew I wanted to work at the intersection of energy, technology, and business.

Be curious and open to new opportunities. Build on your own knowledge by learning from others as much as you can and you'll bring a unique perspective to every role.