March is National Women’s History month, and there’s no better time to honor the women who are blazing new trails in the solar and renewable energy industries.
Since 2015, solar industry employment has increased by 39% for women—with 69,000 women now contributing to the sector’s growth and success. The 2020 National Solar Jobs Census from the Solar Energy Industries Association, The Solar Foundation and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council tells the whole story.
Every day, Terrasmart benefits from the knowledge, skill and insight of women leaders throughout our organization. Across the solar project lifecycle, these Terrasmart team members are forging our success and shaping our future.
Here are five outstanding change-makers we’d like you to get to know.
“It’s easier to ask for forgiveness then beg for permission.”
Greta Urbanek, Production Supervisor, eBos
Greta Urbanek beams when her team shines: “It’s so fulfilling to watch folks pull together, learn new skills and advance in their careers.” As production supervisor, Greta and her team help us deliver one of Terrasmart’s most unique solutions—integrating electrical balance-of-systems with PV racking and project execution
Greta joined Terrasmart in 2016 as a newcomer to the solar industry. She loves the dynamism of renewable energy and sees every challenge as a learning opportunity. “Broken down into bite-sized pieces, every problem is solvable,” she says. Greta points to flexibility, willingness to learn, perseverance and good communication as the keys to success in any career.
Greta believes the use of clean energy today provides a path forward for generations to come. She encourages women to use their unique insights to help forge the industry. Be committed, ask questions, educate other women about renewable energy, she urges. And always persevere.
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
Renee Roggow, Director of Operations, Ground Mount
Renee Roggow is a solar energy superfan: “If we could capture just one hour’s worth of the energy in sunshine, we could power the entire world for a year!” As director of operations for our Ground Mount division, Renee and her team lay the foundation for solar success.
Renee joined Terrasmart in 2015 and finds the field of renewable energy fun, intriguing and fulfilling. “I get to work with amazing colleagues, customers and vendors in a dynamic industry that’s full of new possibilities and challenges,” she says.
Her advice for aspiring “#solarists”: research job categories, reach out to folks in the industry and get prepared with the necessary credentials. A mom of two and former high school and travel team volleyball coach, Renee knows success happens where preparation and opportunity meet.
“When you get to where you’re goin’, don’t forget to turn back around and help the next one in line. Always stay humble and kind.”
Leslie Erion, Vice President of Finance
Leslie Erion joined Terrasmart in 2016 with experience as a public accountant in the steel and manufacturing sectors. As vice president of finance, she leads a team that oversees every financial aspect of our operations.
The most challenging aspect of Leslie’s job is also the most fulfilling. “Because our market’s relatively young and ever changing, there are always problems to solve and processes to improve,” she notes. “The key is collaboration across departments to find the best solutions for our people and our customers.”
Leslie finds it rewarding to be part of a company that’s making our planet a better place for her kids and future generations. To other women exploring a career in renewable energy, she says: “Go for it! The industry has so much to offer. It’s full of great people looking to do great things.”
“Sole, sole, gaudeo,” which means “the sun is my joy.” I love the outdoors—and it’s even more fitting now that I work in solar!
Joanna Rogers, Senior Director, Marketing
In just over a year, Joanna Rogers has developed a strong grasp of solar and renewable energy, thanks to the experience and knowledge of the Terrasmart people she works with. “The blend of expertise, humility and openness makes every day dynamic and rewarding.”
As senior director of marketing, Joanna leads a team that plays a key role in our success—understanding the solar market, communicating with prospects and delivering solutions that meet changing needs. One of their biggest challenges? Striking the balance between near-term goals and the longer-range work that breaks new ground with customers and helps the solar industry grow.
Joanna is thrilled at the potential impact of her work at Terrasmart—and encourages more women to explore the industry. “Don’t let perceived gaps in technical skills or knowledge hold you back from applying for roles. You’ll find incredibly supportive and generous people ready to help,” she says. “Do it—we need you!”
“Life’s too short not to do what makes you happy. Eat the cake!”
Chelsea Cousar, Project Manager
Back in 2016, Chelsea Cousar nearly said “no thanks” to an interview for a temporary position at Terrasmart. We’re very glad she changed her mind. Now a permanent employee and the first woman to serve as project manager, Chelsea keeps complex projects moving smoothly for our customers.
Her role sometimes calls for difficult client conversations, and Chelsea knows how to meet the challenge. “The key is to be patient, listen and remember that we all share the same goal—getting the project built successfully.”
Chelsea is excited about solar energy’s potential to slow global warming and proud that Terrasmart has a hand in helping our planet. She encourages other women to enter the industry. “Don’t be intimidated!” she says. “There’s more than enough room for you in this space. Be confident in your abilities and you can go far.”
Committed to supporting women in solar
These are just a few of the more than 90 hard-working, high-performing women who contribute to Terrasmart’s success. To support and encourage women in the industry, we’ve signed on as a corporate sponsor of Women in Clean Tech and Sustainability. With a network of more than 3,000 influential professionals, the organization is working to further the roles of women in growing the green economy and making a positive impact on the environment.
Sponsorship gives Terrasmart two major advantages: our team members have access to education and networking events, mentorship and other programs, and we can tap the network to recruit even more talented women to join our team. You can learn more at womenincleantechsustainability.org.
