Master Blog

When I started my career in the energy and utilities industry, I was struck by the presence of women in leadership roles. It wasn’t just about visibility—it was about influence, decision-making, and shaping the future of the industry. Seeing women at the helm was both inspiring and reassuring. Yet, as I gained experience, I became more aware of the stark gender gap that still exists.

The numbers tell a compelling story. Women hold just 16.3% of C-suite positions in power and utilities across the U.S. and Canada, with 21.7% in executive roles and 26.8% on boards. While progress has been made, the imbalance is undeniable. Many women hesitate to step forward, not because they lack talent or ambition, but because they’re uncertain of the support they’ll receive or the opportunities that await them.

For me, the idea of women leading was never a question. I grew up watching my mother—a brilliant attorney, a dedicated mother, and a respected leader in our community and church—balance it all with strength and purpose. She set the standard early on, showing me that leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about using your voice, standing your ground, and driving meaningful change. Her example shaped my perspective and reinforced my belief that leadership should be accessible to anyone willing to step up.

The Power of Perspective in Leadership

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about creating a space where diverse voices can be heard. It’s about ensuring the best ideas rise to the surface, no matter where they come from. And in an industry undergoing rapid transformation—through electrification, decarbonization, digitalization, and AI-driven innovation—having diverse perspectives isn’t just beneficial; it’s necessary.

Women bring unique insights, problem-solving approaches, and a depth of innovation that strengthens our industry. Research shows that organizations with diverse leadership teams perform better, make more informed decisions, and drive stronger business outcomes. But talent alone isn’t enough—there must be a deliberate effort to provide opportunities, mentorship, and pathways to leadership.

We need leaders who can see problems from all angles—who understand not just the technology but the people it impacts.

So, what can we do together?

• Mentorship & Sponsorship: Women leaders must lift others as they climb, opening doors and advocating for the next generation.
• Leadership Development Programs: Investing in women’s leadership isn’t just about fairness—it’s a strategic advantage for the industry.
• Challenging Unconscious Bias: Organizations must take intentional steps to ensure hiring, promotions, and decision-making processes are inclusive.
• Creating More Opportunities: Ensuring that women have access to stretch assignments, high-impact projects, and leadership tracks.

With WE3, we are committed to celebrating and supporting the women who are driving this transformation. She-Suite Synergy: Women Advancing in Energy & Utilities is a space where women come together to share their journeys, exchange strategies, and drive meaningful action in innovation, AI, and digital transformation.

Why She-Suite Synergy Matters

The She-Suite Synergy initiative was created to turn to build connections and then turn conversations into action. It’s a platform designed to connect, support, and amplify the voices of women in energy and utilities.

Supported by some of the most inspiring leaders in our industry—Brandy Bolden (COO, SMUD), Julia Zhu (Chief Digital & Innovation Officer, Alectra Utilities), Michelle Ferrara (CIO, APS Energy), Retha Hunsicker (VP, Customer Experience Design & Solutions, Duke Energy), Jody Allison (VP – Transformation, Liberty Utilities), Monica Whiting (VP, Customer Experience & Communications, Chief Customer Officer at Arizona Public Service, APS), and Linda Mattes (Former VP, Customer Operations, Alliant Energy)—this initiative is a movement toward change.

Accelerating Action—Together

If you’re a woman working in the energy and utilities sector—whether you’re just beginning your career or leading transformation at the highest level— join us! With She-Suite Synergy we are building a powerful network where you can gain insights, share your experiences, and be part of shaping the future of our industry.

I invite you to share your thoughts, join the conversation, and help us amplify the voices shaping the future of energy and utilities.