DOE Ambassador Program
On August 20, The Department of Energy (DOE) launched the Ambassadors program. The first slate of Equity in Energy Ambassadors and Champions consists of 20 private sector energy, community, and education leaders and 9 DOE Champions dedicated to bridging the gap between talent in diverse communities and the energy sector.
The Ambassadors are high-profile individuals from academia, energy companies, and community organizations. They will attend Equity in Energy events, share updates with their networks, and be vocal proponents of diversity in energy. Champions are U.S. DOE leaders who will evaluate their portfolios to ensure every possible measure is being taken for outreach, support, and full accessibility for all.
The Office of Economic Impact and Diversity developed the Equity in Energy initiative to expand minorities, women, veteran, and formerly incarcerated persons participation rate in energy jobs, energy procurements, and energy accessibility. In these commonly underserved communities, links are often missing to affordable access to energy and information about energy resources.
“America’s energy landscape is continuing to change. And so is its demographic makeup,” said James Campos, Director of the Office of Economic Impact and Diversity. “Our Ambassadors and Champions know that a diverse approach is critical to success. The demand for energy workers will be challenging to meet if the workforce doesn't reflect the diversity of the population.”
Honorable James Campos, Chief Diversity Officer, US Department of Energy
The Office of Economic Impact and Diversity makes the Ambassador and Champion selections, each for two-year terms. Ambassadors represent a broad cohort of the energy sector and communities that the Equity in Energy Initiative seeks to reach. They work in fields connected to the Initiative’s focal areas like STEM enhancement, technical assistance, supplier diversity, energy affordability, and workforce development.
Katie Mehnert Named Equity in Energy Ambassador
Among the selected 20 ambassadors is Pink Petro Founder and CEO, Katie Mehnert. As an energy veteran who left big oil to establish a company for women and minorities in the industry, Katie understands the value of a diverse workforce.
"Our industry is changing. We are facing a looming talent shortage and a high stakes energy transition. In order to overcome these challenges, we need all people and forms of energy. I'm excited to be a part of this group of innovative thought leaders in a mission to push the needle forward on equity in energy."
Katie Mehnert, Founder and CEO of Pink Petro
Pink Petro's recent launch of the ALLY™ community aims to promote allyship across all faces of energy. This online network offers individuals and companies the resources to make quality connections, find coaching, and access personalized content.
