Women in Green: June 2024 Roundtable

On Wednesday, June 26, the Women in Green (WIG) roundtable hosted a thought-provoking discussion on the shift from for-profit to non-profit positions within the sustainable design field. The session featured women who have transitioned between these sectors, sharing their motivations, experiences, and advice on making such a shift. Monisha Nasa, AIA, facilitated the discussion.

Panelists

• Van H. Du, Assistant Director of Environmental Planning, Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC)
• Keirstan Field, P.E., Engineer/Scientist, EPRI
• Lisa Carey Moore, LFA, LEED AP, Director of the Buildings Team, International Living Future Institute (ILFI)
• Jennifer Marrapese, JD, MA, Senior Director of Programs and Strategy, Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP)
• Mary Tobin, EIT, WELL AP, Senior Associate, Carbon-Free Electricity, RMI

Motivations for Transition

Van H. Du focuses on environmental project planning and infrastructure at MAPC, transitioning from her previous roles in consulting and the City of Boston’s environment department. She was motivated by the connection between public health and environmental issues highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, seeking to make a more significant impact on communities. Lisa Carey Moore, with extensive experience in both sectors, currently oversees project engagement for clients pursuing ILFI’s building certification. Her motivation stemmed from reading extensive depositions about pollution in her first for-profit role, leading her to feel that non-profits were better suited for impactful implementation. Jennifer Marrapese transitioned multiple times, driven by a focus on mission rather than the sector. Her experience in leadership coaching seminars and aptitude assessments in for-profit roles revealed a need for mission-focused work, which she found fulfilling in the non-profit sector. Keirstan Field from EPRI transitioned for a new technical challenge and the freedom to innovate, driven by curiosity and the desire to explore new paths in building decarbonization. Mary Tobin at RMI works on grid flexibility with private companies, utilities, and regulators. Her undergraduate exposure to policy, and working internationally, motivated her shift to non-profit work, focusing on broader change mechanisms.

Advice, Impact, Challenges and Liberties

The panelists discussed the challenges faced in non-profit roles compared to for-profit positions. One noted the scarcity of resources and funding in non-profits, which can be understaffed, making it difficult to accomplish tasks. However, this environment enables innovation and skill development. Non-profits also offer more flexibility. Another highlighted the mission-driven nature of non-profits, where aligning yearly objectives with the mission can be challenging due to resource limitations. It was mentioned that there is often a lack of external feedback in non-profits, requiring a reframing of what constitutes a successful project. Some observed areas of convergence in vision and mission between sectors, suggesting that new business models can align towards common goals. It was recognized that there are notable differences in staffing and resource allocation between the for-profit and non-profit sectors.

The panelists reflected on their ability to make a concrete impact in non-profit roles. One felt they could make a significant impact, as their current role allows for filling gaps and creating a shared vision in the built environment industry. Another emphasized playing the long game, thinking of sustainability more holistically in non-profits, which allows for greater flexibility and less ad-hoc decision-making. It was contrasted how the practical, project-based approach in for-profits differs from the longer-term impact focus in non-profits.

Engagement with stakeholders has evolved in non-profit roles. The inclusive and enduring nature of stakeholder engagement in non-profits was highlighted, contrasting it with the private sector. The importance of partnership and the focus on impact and metrics in project approvals was emphasized. In discussing the creative process for stakeholder engagement, the use of open ideation spaces and actionable content synthesis was highlighted.

The work culture in non-profits was discussed, noting the passion and commitment from staff, better work-life balance, and the ability to pivot quickly. The panelists shared advice for those considering a shift from for-profit to non-profit roles. They encouraged pursuing roles that align with personal passions and professional growth. Understanding one’s passion and the varied roles in non-profits was emphasized. Using assessment tests, networking, informational interviews, and volunteering were suggested as strategies for career change. The advantages and disadvantages of both sectors were acknowledged, recommending individuals assess what they seek from their careers.

The critical role of non-profits in sustainability was agreed upon. The inherent flexibility in non-profits was highlighted, allowing for impactful work regardless of roles. Independent evolution and third-party verification were pointed to as benefits, along with innovative and long-term market transformation efforts. The importance of partnerships and policy feedback was emphasized, as well as the role of non-profits in navigating stakeholder engagement.

The session concluded with a call for ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing to advance sustainability in the built environment, regardless of the sector you find yourself in.