PRINCETON, NJ – September 9-11, 2025
Annually, WE host an event that includes plenty of educational sessions, great networking opportunities, a charity event that benefits women in the area and of course, have fun. This year, we included something new and exciting. And hopefully it continues!
SUNY ESF Students Find Inspiration, Career Clarity at Women in Energy Conference
A select group of undergraduate and graduate students from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF) recently returned from the Women in Energy Conference with a renewed sense of purpose and a wealth of industry knowledge, thanks to an initiative that fully covered their attendance costs. The conference provided an invaluable opportunity for the students to connect with accomplished female leaders and gain a more well-rounded view of the complex energy sector.
The initiative, which ensured the students could attend the conference free of charge, was described by participants as “transformative,” offering a uniquely supportive environment for those looking to build careers in a traditionally male-dominated field.
“Attending the Women in Energy Conference was an incredibly valuable experience,” one student reflected. “It was empowering to be in a space where women’s contributions to the industry were recognized and celebrated. I found it uplifting to be surrounded by such a supportive and encouraging community of women who are eager to help others find their way.”
Key Takeaways and Industry Insight
The students, many of whom focus on renewable energy at SUNY ESF, valued the opportunity to broaden their perspective beyond their core curriculum. Sessions on topics like energy markets, supply and demand dynamics, and financial strategies such as hedging were highlighted as particularly eye-opening.
“Learning about the fossil fuel side and the diverse careers it offers gave me a more well-rounded view of the sector,” noted one attendee. Another added that understanding how the industry manages the volatility of investments through hedging was an “eye-opening moment that connected broad economic principles to the daily realities of the industry.”
Reinforcing Commitment to the Field
A central theme from the students’ reflections was the profound impact of seeing women confidently leading complex, high-stakes conversations. The conference served as a powerful motivator, reinforcing their belief in the critical role women play in leadership and strategic decision-making within the energy sector.
“Seeing so many women confidently leading these complex, high-stakes conversations completely reinforced my belief in their critical role in leadership,” a student commented. “Overall, the conference strengthened my commitment to pursuing a career in this industry. It reassured me that I am on the right path.”
The emphasis on networking and authentic conversation also stood out. Students praised the event for moving beyond superficial interactions, offering “meaningful conversations about both the technical aspects of the energy industry and the realities of navigating a male-dominated field.”
For future attendees, the advice was clear: “Listen carefully to the experiences and insights shared by women who have spent years in the industry… their stories and advice are incredibly insightful and can open your eyes to new opportunities.”
The opportunity for these students to attend the Women in Energy Conference at no cost has not only provided practical knowledge but has also delivered a significant boost in confidence, preparing them to become the next generation of leaders in energy transition and innovation.
We Couldn’t do it Without our Generous Sponsors
Thank you to all of our sponsors – including EUCU, Beckett, ADD Systems, Entech, F.W. Webb, Buckeye, Cargas, CEMA, LS Power, Tevis Energy, NEFI, Fuel Merchants of NJ, Saul-Ewing, Marsh-McLennan Agency, Sprague and Cetane, Energy Kinetics and OESP.
Annual Awards
These women along with our attendees had an opportunity to meet some amazing women who were recognized at our event. They included:
Pamela Giordano, director with Cetane Associates and Vice President of WE was named 2025 Woman of the Year.
Rising Star Award Winners. – Nickey Kollie, Director of Legislative Affairs & Member Services with CT Energy Marketers Association and Mary Hall, Account Manager, R.W. Beckett Co.
A New Award - The EmpowerHER Award – had five women recognized: Heather Steves, Buster Propane, Corpus Christi, TX; Amy Stackhouse, Rhoads Energy, Lancaster, PA; Kate Lennon, Entech Tech School, Cromwell, CT; Pearl Begin, Lake Region Energy, Gorham, ME and Shawn Franklin, Tevis Energy, Westminster, MD.
To learn more about our 2025 Awards and the winners, please visit our website.
Our next conference will be held next October. Visit our website for more information and how to join Women in Energy.
