What does a day in your work life look like?
My role entails working with builders, developers, architects, and energy consultants to implement strategies that reduce building energy loads and promote beneficial electrification. On a daily basis, my work involves developing and implementing innovative program offerings that are designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in our building industry. This could involve everything from working with policymakers, regulators, and other key stakeholders, to managing program budgets and working with evaluators to ensure the programs remain cost-effective for consumers and utilities alike.

Why did you decide to become a member of this organization?
I’ve been a part of Connecticut Green Building Council (CTGBC) since I was a college student – roughly 15 years now – and Connecticut Passive House (CTPH) for the better part of 5 years. 

A mentor encouraged me to seek out like-minded individuals and organizations that shared a common goal which, for me, was mitigating the impact of climate change in our region. 

I became a Board member for CTGBC in 2017 and for CTPH in 2019. I’ve always been encouraged by CTGBC and CTPH’s role in advocacy, outreach, and workforce development. Watching CTGBC and CTPH grow over the last 5 years has been nothing short of exciting, and I’m proud to have helped encourage such growth.

What is the most important benefit you’ve received from your membership?
Without a doubt, the most important benefit I’ve gotten out of being on the Board of Directors is having the opportunity to really enact change in our built environment, while also making a difference in the lives of others.

At the same time, I’ve learned so much about where the building industry was in years past in the state, while also helping to shape where it is going in the future. I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to serve on both boards, which have not only helped me grow professionally, but have also shaped my personal values. 

Any parting words of inspiration?
My favorite quote of all time is by Malcolm Gladwell, who said “A radical and transformative thought goes nowhere without the willingness to challenge convention.” It’s why challenging the status quo is so difficult for so many people. And yet that’s what these two groups have dared to do. They’ve gathered groups of individuals who are not afraid to challenge the status quo to create an environment and a community in Connecticut that is better than it would have been otherwise. 

I’m so incredibly proud to have been a part of these two groups, and I’m equally encouraged about where they will go in the future!