Hanley Sustainability Institute

By Mark Gokavi

The 2020 Women in Clean Energy Conference co-hosted by University of Dayton students had more than 200 attendees which reached more than 30 organizations and universities nationwide.

“It was really inspiring to see so many women in energy related fields,” said participant Ava Stokes, a UD junior majoring in mechanical engineering. “I learned a lot about what work is out there in energy and learned how I can make a difference after graduation.”

The video sessions and slide presentations are available on the conference’s webpage.

“Transitioning to an all virtual event, the outcome and turnout far exceeded my expectations,” said Jenn Hoody, a fifth-year mechanical engineering major and an event organizer. “It was inspiring to see the support and interest from a diverse group of individuals from across the country, ranging from undergraduate students to experienced professionals in the field.”

For Rosie Errigo, one highlight was hearing Sandy Winkler, a senior research scientist in research and advanced engineering at Ford Motor Company.

“I was really excited to hear everything she was discussing,” said Errigo, who interned at Honda and is a graduate student studying renewable and clean energy. “A huge impact she left on me was finding the areas of renewable systems and energy efficiency in industries outside of clean energy is very possible and an important aspect in today's society.

“With so many companies promising zero emissions by 2030 or 2050, the time to be proactive about these plans was yesterday. She really inspired me to take my passions and interests and apply them to any industry.”

It wasn’t just women who benefitted from the sessions.

The “sessions were very interesting and insightful,” said Patrick Hoody, a sophomore in mechanical engineering. “They provided a lot of information about many different aspects of how clean energy is being achieved in the world.”

Jack Rees, a renewable and clean energy graduate student, said many speakers worked in fields he hopes to explore after graduation.

“One point that many of the speakers made that resonated with me was that you never know where you will end up in terms of a career,” Rees said. “ It’s good to have an idea of what you want to do, but don’t force yourself to stay on that path if a better opportunity arises.”

“I was extremely impressed by how far the conference reached,” said Brianna Dooley, a fifth-year mechanical engineering major and event organizer. “I find it incredibly inspiring to see that many women and allies joining together to support a common goal.”

Organizers already are planning and asking for input about the 2021 conference.

For more sustainability news and information, visit HSI’s news blog, the Hanley Sustainability Institute website and the sustainability program website. To sign up for HSI’s Sustainability Spotlight newsletter, register here.