NEWIEE

EBC Sixth Annual New Hampshire Offshore Wind Conference
2024-10-16 09:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Join your colleagues and contacts in the industry at EBC’s 6th Annual New Hampshire Offshore Wind Conference. This year, the virtual program will feature presentations and remarks by federal and state agency officials, the New Hampshire Commission to Study Offshore Wind and Port Development, the transmission sector, and offshore wind developers. All parties seek to ensure that the consideration of offshore wind development in the Gulf of Maine is conducted in a respectful, open, transparent, and collaborative process.
Participants will learn about New Hampshire’s offshore wind-related activity; recent developments including the Gulf of Maine Wind Energy Area and proposed lease auction; and New England’s energy transition along with transmission and the future of the regional power system. Additionally, attendees will hear from senior leadership in neighboring states: Massachusetts and Maine.
A roundtable discussion with developers specifically interested in Gulf of Maine will conclude the webinar.
General Continuing Education Certificates are awarded by the EBC for this program (3.0 training contact hours). Certificates are automatically provided via email link for registered attendees at the conclusion of the webinar.

Climate Beacon Conference 2024
2024-10-16 | Boston Society of Architects, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA, 02210, United States
October 16, 2024
TBA
Boston Society for Architects, 290 Congress St Suite 200, Boston, MA 02210
Save the date: Hosted by Climate Beacon Project, the second annual Climate Beacon Conference will be held Oct. 16 through Oct. 18. The conference will focus on four themes: Building Better, Powering Better, Moving Better and Adapting Better. “Harborside chats” and summer field trips will give participants a close-up look at climate initiatives around Massachusetts.

The trajectory of Iraq’s recovery, development, and global partnerships
2024-10-15 09:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
Join the Atlantic Council for its upcoming Third Annual Iraq Initiative Conference on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm ET.
The conference will convene a diverse group of leading experts, scholars, and policymakers from both the United States and the Republic of Iraq, including current and former senior officials. It will tackle the significant challenges and opportunities facing the country as it begins to move beyond years of volatility, with early signs of recovery and development.
This year’s focus will include the advancement of the energy sector, the Iraqi government’s efforts toward sustainable economic diversification, and the evolving trajectory of US-Iraqi relations. Participants will take part in dynamic panel discussions exploring how Iraq, the United States, and the international community can engage positively with Iraq as it navigates its unique sociopolitical, economic, and security changes.
The conference will be hybrid, with both in-person and virtual participation, and will include translation in both Kurdish and Arabic. The in-person sessions will take place at the Atlantic Council Headquarters, 1030 15th St NW, 12th Floor, Washington, DC.

CWEEL Empowerment Sessions – Every 2nd Monday
2024-10-14 16:00 - 16:30 | Virtual
Welcome to CWEEL Empowerment Sessions!
Step into a space designed for women in the energy sector to drop in, connect, and empower each other. Join our laid-back sessions where there’s no set agenda, just an open floor for conversations, questions, and support.
CWEEL Empowerment Sessions are all about fostering a sense of community. Whether you’re seeking advice, sharing your experiences, or simply want to unwind with like-minded professionals, this is your platform.
Bring your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s discuss everything from industry insights to personal growth. No matter where you are in your career journey, these sessions are here to uplift and empower CWEEL members.
Your presence and voice matter. Join us for CWEEL Empowerment Sessions, where connection and empowerment go hand in hand.
See you there!
Click here to save the calendar invite: https://cweel.org/event/cweel-empowerment-sessions-every-2nd-monday/2024-10-14/#:~:text=Click%20here%20to%20save%20the%20calendar%20invite

Back to Basics: PFAS Chemistry 101 – An EBC “Lunch & Learn” Webinar
2024-10-10 12:00 - 13:30 | Virtual
This collaborative webinar between the EBC Emerging Contaminants and Ascending Professionals Committees will provide a return to the basics of PFAS chemistry.
Many practitioners are not aware that the chemistry of PFAS can have a significant impact on further evaluations and decision-making, such as fate & transport, forensics, and treatment, more so for this group of contaminants than others we are more familiar with.
This webinar will cover the fundamentals: What are PFAS? What is the difference between polymer PFAS and non-polymer PFAS? How do perfluoroalkyl substances differ from polyfluoroalkyl substances? What does it mean when we say short chain PFAS and long chain PFAS or linear PFAS and branched PFAS? What are some of the chemical and physical properties that are unique to PFAS? How are PFAS manufactured and why does that matter? Can PFAS undergo transformation in the environment? Which PFAS have been used as replacement for compounds like PFOA? The webinar will allow ample time for questions.
General Continuing Education Certificates are awarded by the EBC for this program (1.5 training contact hours). Certificates are automatically provided via email link for registered attendees at the conclusion of the webinar.

WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking
2024-10-09 17:30 - 19:30 | Foley and Lardner LLP, 111 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02199, United States
The WoW – WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are great opportunities to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers.
Location: Foley & Lardner LLP, 111 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02199
Cost: Members: $0; Non-Members: $10

2024 Women in Technology Forum: Better Together: The Power of Partnerships & Mentoring in Times of Uncertainty
2024-10-09 17:00 - 20:00 | DoubleTree by Hilton Danvers, 50 Ferncroft Rd, Danvers, MA, 01923, United States
We have a fabulous lineup for the third annual NSTC Women in Technology Forum! Please join us on Wednesday, October 9 to hear from a dynamic group of female leaders about their career journeys and the power of partnerships and mentoring.
Register Here: https://nstc.wildapricot.org/event-5836331/Registration

Virtual Power Plants 101
2024-10-08 12:00 - 13:30 | Virtual
VPP 101: A Virtual event about virtual power plants!
Join us to learn about virtual power plants and how they can be leveraged in New England.
SPEAKERS:
Amit Barnir, Vice President, US – Network Infrastructure, Zenobē
Amy Findlay, Manager of Demand Response and Managed EV Charging, Eversource
Andrew Graves, Technology Manager, Department of Energy
Doug Hurley, Vice President of Policy, Icetec Energy Services
COST:
Members $40 | Non-Members $55 | *Government $35 | *Young Professionals $35 | Students Free
* Note: This is a great learning opportunity for new government agency personnel and energy professionals. Therefore, we are offering a special 40% discount on orders with 5 or more Young Professional or Government tickets (use coupon code: YP-GVT-VPP-GROUP).
Register here: https://necanews.org/product/ticket-virtual-power-plants-101-october-8-2024/

AltWheels 2024 Fleet Day
2024-10-07 | Four Points by Sheraton Norwood, 1125 Boston-Providence Turnpike, Norwood, MA, 02062, United States
October 7, 2024
Four Points by Sheraton, Norwood MA
AltWheels is hosting their 2024 Fleet Day on Monday October 7th, 2024 at the Four Points by Sheraton, Norwood MA. Fleet Day is an annual sustainable transportation event that brings together corporate and municipal fleet managers and clean-fleet stakeholders working to reduce emissions and lower costs for tomorrow’s transportation needs.
AltWheels is a leading place municipal and corporate fleets come each year to understand more sustainable transportation options. AltWheels showcases the latest vehicle and fuel technologies, educates passenger and fleet consumers on best practices, promotes real choices that exist in the marketplace, and stimulates the demand for choices that will improve our health, air quality, and survival. AltWheels has won awards from the EPA and WTS for its effectiveness in changing thinking about transportation and real practices and behaviors.
AltWheels participants include Fleet Managers from more than 30 cities and towns in California, Connecticut, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Georgia and Vermont. Additionally, many state and federal agencies such as MassDOT, DOT, EPA, CALSTART, attend AltWheels. We have 11 Clean Cities coalitions represented as well as support from National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA) and North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE).
AltWheels Fleet Day attracts Fleet Managers from colleges/universities, hospitals, and last mile delivery providers among others. Recent attendees from institutions include Brown University, Harvard University, Merrimack College, MIT, New York University, Princeton, University of Vermont, the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, Suffolk University, Yale University, and the University of New Hampshire among others.
The link to register can be found here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/910905381517?aff=oddtdtcreator
More information about the event can be found here: https://www.altwheels.org/fleet-day

“Going Big” – Pop Up Webinar on the State of Offshore Wind in New England & Beyond
2024-10-01 12:00 - 13:30 | Virtual
Massachusetts and Rhode Island announced the winners of their joint offshore wind auction on September 6. “We’re going big,” said Gov. Maura Healey. The three projects selected will be built south of Nantucket and collectively produce up to 2,878 megawatts of electricity. The projects are expected to generate billions of dollars in economic activity, lower electricity costs, create thousands of union jobs, and position New England for the future of clean energy. Join NECA for a pop up discussion with industry experts to understand what this announcement means and what is going on in offshore wind in New England and beyond.
Panel:
Bob Grace, President, Sustainable Energy Advantage (Moderator)
Moira Cyphers, Director, Atlantic Offshore & Eastern State Affairs, American Clean Power
Garcia Magrach, VP – OSW Projects, Avangrid
Ben D’Antonio, Manager of Transmission Strategy and Economic Analysis, Eversource Energy
Cost:
Members $40 | Non-Members $55 | Government $35 | Young Professionals $35 | Students Free
REGISTER HERE: https://necanews.org/product/ticket-the-state-of-offshore-wind-in-new-england-beyond-october-1-2024/

Life-Work Balance? It's A Myth! Let's Play Work-Life Jenga and Prioritize What is Important to You By Exploring Your Priorities
2024-09-30 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
In this hands-on workshop, you will have the chance to reflect on how you are spending your time, to notice what you are making time for, and what is left out. ​We will provide you time for solo-reflection to consider what you’d like more of in your life–whether it is more time to invest in your personal relationships, professional development, health, or self-care. ​You will leave with a better sense of the steps you can take tomorrow to design a life that aligns with what is most important to you.
Our goal is for you to leave with a renewed sense of energy and excitement about realistic ways you can design a life that is more fulfilling, and less stressful. We will provide you the tools to help you make the decisions that work best for you. The answers are not the same for each of us. We generally don’t make the time to ask ourselves these questions. Consider it a gift of time for yourself, where you can also support other members of the WEST community, to help them bring more delight into their lives as well.
Location: Zoom
Cost: Members: $5; Non-Members: $15

NEWIEE Rising Professionals Committee Monthly Meetup
2024-09-27 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
You are invited to attend our monthly meet ups. Attendees have the opportunity to have a direct impact on the community of Rising Professionals within NEWIEE. We share, listen, and grow while discussing themes like imposter syndrome, emotional intelligence, leadership styles and so much more.
Get to know others within the industry by sharing successes or challenges, plan future events, and participate in professional development conversations. Occasionally we even invite guest speakers for a presentation or advice. This month, Tiffany Hawco will lead a presentation on the evolution of the Rising Professional Committee, highlighting how collaborative efforts have shaped its transformation. She will share insights on the lessons learned during these changes and our commitment to maintaining an inclusive, safe environment. Following the presentation, Tiffany will facilitate an exercise aimed at fostering authentic connections through guided breakout sessions and engaging prompts.
We look forward to seeing you at our next meet up!
The meeting reoccurs the fourth Friday of each month from noon-1pm. Note: these meetings are not recorded.
Click here to join the meeting.
Your Rising Professional Co-Chairs,
Grace and Tiffany

Tiffany Hawco, CHMM, Environmental Compliance Specialist, Eversource
Grace Fletcher, Renewable Energy Program Coordinator, Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources
Speakers

Panelists:
Maria Belen Power
Undersecretary of Environmental Justice & Equity
Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
Maria Belen Power grew up in Nicaragua in the aftermath of the revolution. She most recently served as the Assistant Executive Director of GreenRoots, a community-based organization dedicated to improving and enhancing the urban environment and public health in Chelsea. The city has some of the worst air pollution in the state, predisposing residents to higher rates of cardiovascular disease and respiratory ailments, including some of the highest rates of COVID-19 of any Massachusetts community. Power oversaw GreenRoots’ environmental justice campaigns and supported the work of the organizing team. She was appointed by President Biden to serve on the newly established White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. She holds an undergraduate degree in sociology from Augsburg University, a Master of Public Policy from Tufts University, and a Certificate in Non-Profit Management and Leadership from the Institute for Nonprofit Practice.
Doria Brown
Energy Manager
City of Nashua – Sustainability
Doria is the first ever Energy Manager for the City of Nashua. She is an emerging energy professional bringing seven years of experience to the community she serves. Doria specializes in Energy Portfolio Management, Renewable Energy Project Management, and Greenhouse Gas Accounting. Doria has a Bachelor of Science from Franklin Pierce University in Environmental Science with a concentration in Chemistry and Hydrology. She is a strong believer in climate change and that it is the responsibility of all generations to act now so that we will not be regretful later. When she is not working in the City, Doria enjoys making short form video content on her Earth Stewardess Platform, tending to her indoor vegetable garden, and binging Netflix.
Nikki Bruno
Vice President, Clean Technologies
Eversource
Nikki is the Vice President of Clean Technologies in Eversource’s gas business unit. She is responsible for advancing clean technologies within the Eversource gas business portfolio to help achieve Eversource’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030, as well as supporting required statewide emissions reductions in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
As part of her role, Nikki evaluates the feasibility of clean technologies, such as renewable natural gas, geothermal energy, methane reduction and hydrogen, and manages the development and execution of projects incorporating those clean technologies. She plays a lead role in policy efforts regarding the future of natural gas and other strategic initiatives that help Eversource provide safe, reliable, and clean energy to meet its customers’ needs. In addition, Nikki oversees marketing, customer connections, and major account management across Eversource’s gas business, which includes traditional and clean technology offerings. Prior to this role, Nikki was Eversource’s Director of Clean Technologies.
Before joining Eversource, Nikki was a Project Director of Business Development for Enbridge. She was responsible for the development of new natural gas transmission ventures, services, and related energy projects in the Northeast region. She also managed the Enbridge commercial relationship with National Grid. Earlier in her career, Nikki held environmental permitting positions of increasing responsibility with Enbridge’s predecessor company, Spectra Energy, and worked as an environmental consultant specializing in ecological and health risk assessments.
Nikki holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from Trinity College and a Master of Business Administration degree from the F.W. Olin School of Business at Babson College.

Sarah Haggerty
Conservation Biologist and GIS Manager
Maine Audubon

Sarah Haggerty is a Conservation Biologist/GIS Manager for Maine Audubon where she works on a variety of different projects. These include projects associated with aquatic and terrestrial habitat connectivity, insect population declines, policy review and advocacy, and most frequently these days – projects associated with renewable energy. As the lead author on Maine Audubon’s 2019 publication, Renewable Energy and Wildlife in Maine, she had an opportunity to dive into the literature to help the public understand the potential impacts to wildlife and their habitats from the siting, construction, and operations of renewable energy infrastructure as well as impact avoidance techniques. She also oversaw the development of Maine Audubon’s Renewable Energy Siting Tool which aims to provide resources developers and decision-makers the information they need to locate solar and land-based wind projects in areas that avoid or minimize negative impacts to important wildlife habitats. She was a member of the state’s Environment and Wildlife Working Group for the Maine Offshore Wind Initiative and currently sits on the Advisory Board for the Maine Offshore Wind Research Consortium. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bowdoin College with a major in biology, and a Master of Science degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation from the University of Maine in Amherst. Prior to joining Maine Audubon, she worked for 10 years at the Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program where she worked as a regulator for two years and a landscape-scale project manager for many more.
Rachel Pachter
Chief Development Officer
Vineyard Wind & Vineyard Offshore
Rachel Pachter has over twenty years of experience in U.S. offshore wind development. Rachel leads Vineyard Offshore’s team conducting early-stage activities including technical development, permitting, environmental activities, and community engagement. Rachel led and finalized the approval of the first two offshore wind farms in federal waters of the United States, including Vineyard Wind 1, which is now under construction. Rachel navigates the projects she works on through complex regulatory paths at the federal, state, and local levels. She engages with critical stakeholder groups to reach agreements essential to the success of the project and the local host communities. Rachel is consistently ranked in global lists of wind energy leaders. Rachel has a degree in Geology from the University of Alaska.
Rachel was recently quoted in a lead business article in the New York Times on the significance of this moment in history for US offshore wind: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/27/business/energy-environment/marthas-vineyard-wind-farm-massachusetts.html#commentsContainer

Moderator:
Sue Kaplan
Founder, Sustainable Futures Consulting
Adjunct Faculty, University of New Hampshire
Sue Kaplan is the Founder of Sustainable Futures Consulting. Her firm collaborates with business and institutional leaders to create and integrate their brand values, strategic communications, and sustainability practices. Client engagements include developing a brand and marketing platform for a suicide detection technology startup, facilitating the merger of three groups for a Dartmouth research institute, and stepping in as an interim communications executive for a national action tank.
Sue also teaches in the University of New Hampshire’s Sustainability Dual Major and is the faculty lead for the B Impact Clinic, training undergraduates to work with the B Impact Assessment to consult with business clients that are working to become a certified B Corp or supercharging their sustainability practices.
Prior to consulting, Sue worked with leaders in federal and state government, a global corporation, and nonprofit healthcare systems, typically managing large projects, leading strategic communication teams, bringing stakeholders together, and busting silos. Her favorite roles include pioneering work in corporate sustainability at Polaroid Corporation and marketing leadership in Massachusetts’ Department of Energy Resources.
Sue’s purpose is to communicate, collaborate, and connect people and their ideas to spark sustainable impact, fulfillment, and stewardship for a thriving planet. Her volunteer roles align with her purpose, as a member of NH Businesses for Social Responsibility’s Measure What Matters committee and an advocate on democracy, climate, and a just transition for the future.
Sue graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy, earned a B.A. from Northwestern University and an M.B.A from Simmons University’s School of Management. She adores her husband and two adult sons, border collie and cats, as well as friends, and soon-to-be new friends and associates. Best of all, she’s out in the woods everyday with her dog!

September 27, 2024 – NEWEA Golf Tournament, New Hampshire
2024-09-27 | Derryfield Country Club, 625 Mammoth Road, Manchester, NH, 03104, United States
We will be teeing off at 9 AM at the Derryfield Country Club in Manchester, NH. We know that you will enjoy this beautiful and challenging golf course while you share fellowship with your professional colleagues and friends. Lunch and awards ceremony will immediately follow the tournament. Prizes will be awarded for Closest to Pin, Longest Drive (Men and Women), Straightest Drive, and Putting Contest, as well as for the top three teams. A number of prizes will also be raffled off during the awards ceremony.
More information about sponsorship can
be found on the following page.

SAVE THE DATE: Transitioning to the Future Grid in MA Event Series
2024-09-26 09:00 - 12:30 | The Engine Accelerator, 750 Main St, Cambridge, MA, 02139, United States
September 26, 2024
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
The Engine Accelerator, 750 Main St, Cambridge, MA 02139
This is Event 3 of NECEC’s Transitioning to the Future Grid in MA Event Series.
MassCEC will update this page with more information as it is announced.

Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking: AI & Computational Science
2024-09-25 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual
In the world of science, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps.
Location: Zoom
Register here: https://gw.memberclicks.net/index.php?option=com_mcform&view=ngforms&id=2208702#!/

Flora & Fauna Fall Hike with NEWIEE Rising Professionals
2024-09-25 15:00 - 16:30 | Cutler Park Reservation, 517 Needham Street, Dedham, MA, 02026, United States
NEWIEE Rising Professionals and Eversource’s Senior Environmental Specialist Peter DeFusco invites you for a chance to get outside before the New England winter sets in. This nature walk will be located at Cutler Park Reservation on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, starting at 3:00 PM The walk will have a focus on the identification of flora, fauna and invasives present at the site. Along with a discussion on the ecological importance and function of wetlands. We look forward to seeing you rain or shine. Register Here Distance: ~2mi.
Suggested Attire: Weather appropriate clothing, hiking boots or sneakers, refillable water bottle.
Parking Location: Blue Heron Trail at Needham Street (517 Needham St, Dedham, MA)
Description: Well-established trail in Cutler Park Reservation. The trail navigates a bordering vegetated wetland associated with the Charles River. Trail maps site information available at: https://www.mass.gov/locations/cutler-park-reservation Hike Leader: Peter DeFusco, Senior Environmental Specialist, Eversource
Peter DeFusco is a south coast Massachusetts native and graduate of UMass-Amherst. Beginning his environmental regulatory career with the National Park Service in 2008, he had the opportunity to work with natural resources in some of the Country’s most beautiful places and diverse habitats. In 2013, Peter re-planted his roots back in Massachusetts transitioning into a consulting role specializing in wetlands permitting. He joined Eversource in 2020 as a Senior Environmental Specialist in the Licensing & Permitting Group where he serves as an environmental subject matter expert on electrical transmission projects. His roles include environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, and working with the project teams to see that designs avoid and minimize disturbance to environmentally sensitive areas
Event Sponsor

Speakers

Panelists:
Maria Belen Power
Undersecretary of Environmental Justice & Equity
Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
Maria Belen Power grew up in Nicaragua in the aftermath of the revolution. She most recently served as the Assistant Executive Director of GreenRoots, a community-based organization dedicated to improving and enhancing the urban environment and public health in Chelsea. The city has some of the worst air pollution in the state, predisposing residents to higher rates of cardiovascular disease and respiratory ailments, including some of the highest rates of COVID-19 of any Massachusetts community. Power oversaw GreenRoots’ environmental justice campaigns and supported the work of the organizing team. She was appointed by President Biden to serve on the newly established White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. She holds an undergraduate degree in sociology from Augsburg University, a Master of Public Policy from Tufts University, and a Certificate in Non-Profit Management and Leadership from the Institute for Nonprofit Practice.
Doria Brown
Energy Manager
City of Nashua – Sustainability
Doria is the first ever Energy Manager for the City of Nashua. She is an emerging energy professional bringing seven years of experience to the community she serves. Doria specializes in Energy Portfolio Management, Renewable Energy Project Management, and Greenhouse Gas Accounting. Doria has a Bachelor of Science from Franklin Pierce University in Environmental Science with a concentration in Chemistry and Hydrology. She is a strong believer in climate change and that it is the responsibility of all generations to act now so that we will not be regretful later. When she is not working in the City, Doria enjoys making short form video content on her Earth Stewardess Platform, tending to her indoor vegetable garden, and binging Netflix.
Nikki Bruno
Vice President, Clean Technologies
Eversource
Nikki is the Vice President of Clean Technologies in Eversource’s gas business unit. She is responsible for advancing clean technologies within the Eversource gas business portfolio to help achieve Eversource’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030, as well as supporting required statewide emissions reductions in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
As part of her role, Nikki evaluates the feasibility of clean technologies, such as renewable natural gas, geothermal energy, methane reduction and hydrogen, and manages the development and execution of projects incorporating those clean technologies. She plays a lead role in policy efforts regarding the future of natural gas and other strategic initiatives that help Eversource provide safe, reliable, and clean energy to meet its customers’ needs. In addition, Nikki oversees marketing, customer connections, and major account management across Eversource’s gas business, which includes traditional and clean technology offerings. Prior to this role, Nikki was Eversource’s Director of Clean Technologies.
Before joining Eversource, Nikki was a Project Director of Business Development for Enbridge. She was responsible for the development of new natural gas transmission ventures, services, and related energy projects in the Northeast region. She also managed the Enbridge commercial relationship with National Grid. Earlier in her career, Nikki held environmental permitting positions of increasing responsibility with Enbridge’s predecessor company, Spectra Energy, and worked as an environmental consultant specializing in ecological and health risk assessments.
Nikki holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from Trinity College and a Master of Business Administration degree from the F.W. Olin School of Business at Babson College.

Sarah Haggerty
Conservation Biologist and GIS Manager
Maine Audubon

Sarah Haggerty is a Conservation Biologist/GIS Manager for Maine Audubon where she works on a variety of different projects. These include projects associated with aquatic and terrestrial habitat connectivity, insect population declines, policy review and advocacy, and most frequently these days – projects associated with renewable energy. As the lead author on Maine Audubon’s 2019 publication, Renewable Energy and Wildlife in Maine, she had an opportunity to dive into the literature to help the public understand the potential impacts to wildlife and their habitats from the siting, construction, and operations of renewable energy infrastructure as well as impact avoidance techniques. She also oversaw the development of Maine Audubon’s Renewable Energy Siting Tool which aims to provide resources developers and decision-makers the information they need to locate solar and land-based wind projects in areas that avoid or minimize negative impacts to important wildlife habitats. She was a member of the state’s Environment and Wildlife Working Group for the Maine Offshore Wind Initiative and currently sits on the Advisory Board for the Maine Offshore Wind Research Consortium. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bowdoin College with a major in biology, and a Master of Science degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation from the University of Maine in Amherst. Prior to joining Maine Audubon, she worked for 10 years at the Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program where she worked as a regulator for two years and a landscape-scale project manager for many more.
Rachel Pachter
Chief Development Officer
Vineyard Wind & Vineyard Offshore
Rachel Pachter has over twenty years of experience in U.S. offshore wind development. Rachel leads Vineyard Offshore’s team conducting early-stage activities including technical development, permitting, environmental activities, and community engagement. Rachel led and finalized the approval of the first two offshore wind farms in federal waters of the United States, including Vineyard Wind 1, which is now under construction. Rachel navigates the projects she works on through complex regulatory paths at the federal, state, and local levels. She engages with critical stakeholder groups to reach agreements essential to the success of the project and the local host communities. Rachel is consistently ranked in global lists of wind energy leaders. Rachel has a degree in Geology from the University of Alaska.
Rachel was recently quoted in a lead business article in the New York Times on the significance of this moment in history for US offshore wind: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/27/business/energy-environment/marthas-vineyard-wind-farm-massachusetts.html#commentsContainer

Moderator:
Sue Kaplan
Founder, Sustainable Futures Consulting
Adjunct Faculty, University of New Hampshire
Sue Kaplan is the Founder of Sustainable Futures Consulting. Her firm collaborates with business and institutional leaders to create and integrate their brand values, strategic communications, and sustainability practices. Client engagements include developing a brand and marketing platform for a suicide detection technology startup, facilitating the merger of three groups for a Dartmouth research institute, and stepping in as an interim communications executive for a national action tank.
Sue also teaches in the University of New Hampshire’s Sustainability Dual Major and is the faculty lead for the B Impact Clinic, training undergraduates to work with the B Impact Assessment to consult with business clients that are working to become a certified B Corp or supercharging their sustainability practices.
Prior to consulting, Sue worked with leaders in federal and state government, a global corporation, and nonprofit healthcare systems, typically managing large projects, leading strategic communication teams, bringing stakeholders together, and busting silos. Her favorite roles include pioneering work in corporate sustainability at Polaroid Corporation and marketing leadership in Massachusetts’ Department of Energy Resources.
Sue’s purpose is to communicate, collaborate, and connect people and their ideas to spark sustainable impact, fulfillment, and stewardship for a thriving planet. Her volunteer roles align with her purpose, as a member of NH Businesses for Social Responsibility’s Measure What Matters committee and an advocate on democracy, climate, and a just transition for the future.
Sue graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy, earned a B.A. from Northwestern University and an M.B.A from Simmons University’s School of Management. She adores her husband and two adult sons, border collie and cats, as well as friends, and soon-to-be new friends and associates. Best of all, she’s out in the woods everyday with her dog!

AFLOAT Technical Summit
2024-09-25, 2024-09-24 | Holiday Inn, 88 Spring St, Portland, ME, 04101, United States
Among the most-established conferences dedicated to floating offshore wind in the United States, AFloat stands at the forefront of the nation’s ambitious goal to deploy 15 GW of floating offshore wind capacity by 2035. Our mission is to unite stakeholders from all corners in a collective effort to advance floating offshore wind across the nation and the world. Through problem-solving, barrier removal, risk mitigation, and the formation of meaningful partnerships, AFloat addresses technical, regulatory, and permitting challenges that must be addressed.

2024 Fuels Conference
2024-09-24 08:30 - 16:30 | Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, 600 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA, 02210, United States
WHEN: Tuesday, September 24 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
WHERE: Federal Reserve Bank Building, 600 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA
Join us for NECA’s Annual Fuels Conference, an event dedicated to exploring the future of natural gas, the commercialization of fossil fuel alternatives, and the evolving landscape of low carbon fuel standard (LCFS) markets. This conference brings together industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators to discuss the critical developments shaping the future of energy. Through insightful presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, we aim to explore sustainable pathways, cutting-edge technologies, and regulatory frameworks essential for advancing the transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

YPE Boston: Charles River Boat Cruise
2024-09-23 18:30 - 20:30 | Charles River Boat Company, 100 Cambridgeside Place, Cambridge, MA, 02141, United States
YPE (Young Professionals in Energy) Boston is hosting its first-ever Charles River cruise! Come aboard the Charles River Boat Company’s Henry Longfellow for a private charter featuring an appetizer spread, games, music, and plenty of young professionals in energy and climate. There is a bar on board and drinks will be available for purchase (card payment only).
More details and registration are on Eventbrite here.

CWEEL Empowerment Sessions – Every 4th Monday
2024-09-23 16:00 - 16:30 | Virtual
Welcome to CWEEL Empowerment Sessions!
Step into a space designed for women in the energy sector to drop in, connect, and empower each other. Join our laid-back sessions where there’s no set agenda, just an open floor for conversations, questions, and support.
CWEEL Empowerment Sessions are all about fostering a sense of community. Whether you’re seeking advice, sharing your experiences, or simply want to unwind with like-minded professionals, this is your platform.
Bring your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s discuss everything from industry insights to personal growth. No matter where you are in your career journey, these sessions are here to uplift and empower CWEEL members.
Your presence and voice matter. Join us for CWEEL Empowerment Sessions, where connection and empowerment go hand in hand.
See you there!
Click here to save the calendar invite: https://aeecenter-org.zoom.us/meeting/tZwtce6trDMjGdIhk6quMX3BpNZXemmzJ63j/ics?icsToken=[REDACTED]

Connecticut’s Roadmap for Collaborating on Advancing Offshore Wind
2024-09-20 09:00 - 14:30 | Eversource Energy Berlin, CT, 107 Selden Street, Berlin, CT, 06037, United States
A must-attend event, the EBC 5th Annual Connecticut Offshore Wind Program presents experts in the offshore wind energy industry responsible for advancing Connecticut’s offshore wind industry with sustainable and equitable growth in 2024.
In 2022, Governor Lamont signed two historic bills into law to fully decarbonize Connecticut’s electric sector and expand existing renewable energy programs. Through these actions, all electricity supplied to customers in Connecticut is required to come from zero-carbon sources by 2040. By 2030, the State has also pledged to reduce the level of greenhouse gas emissions to at least 45% below 2001 levels; by 2050, these emissions are required to be 80% below 2001 levels.
To help advance these zero-carbon electricity goals, a Connecticut Offshore Wind Strategic Roadmap was completed in October 2023. This Roadmap outlines the state’s commitments to offshore wind energy as well as its strategy for expansion. Connecticut’s focus on regional collaboration, state offshore wind policies supportive of federal policies and financial incentives for developers in the Inflation Reduction Act, and strategic port infrastructure investment has positioned the state as a key player in the offshore wind industry in the United States. Also in 2023, the State Pier Terminal in New London became the first active East Coast offshore wind hub and marshaling terminal with unobstructed access to the ocean, as staging and assembly operations began for the first of three Ørsted and Eversource projects commissioned by Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. The U.S. offshore wind industry is larger than any one state, learn how Connecticut is committed to collaborating with partners at all levels: locally with underserved communities on workforce development, regionally with Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont; nationally; and globally.
Sustainable and equitable growth of Connecticut’s offshore wind economy focuses on four strategic pillars: Infrastructure & Real Estate, Supply Chain, Workforce, and Research & Development. To implement these tactics, the state launched the Connecticut Wind Collaborative (CWC), a new public-private organization focused on advancing the offshore wind industry in Connecticut in 2024. In March 2024, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) received proposals from four project developers under its multistate Request for Proposals with Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
With so much going on both within Connecticut and regionally, the annual EBC Connecticut Offshore Wind Conference is required viewing for offshore wind professionals seeking to put all the puzzle pieces together. Speakers will report on progress of the multistate offshore wind procurement, port development and operations, grid improvements, environmental permitting, and collaborative strategies underway in 2024 to advance the Connecticut and U.S. offshore wind industry.
General Continuing Education Certificates are awarded by the EBC for this program (4.0 training contact hours). Certificates are automatically provided via email link for registered attendees at the conclusion of the program.

Raab New England Restructuring Roundtable
2024-09-20 08:30 - 12:30 | Foley Hoag LLP Boston, 155 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA, 02210, United States
Born out of electric industry restructuring, the Restructuring Roundtable has been meeting four to six times per year since 1995 to discuss current topics related to revolutionary changes in the electric power industry in Massachusetts and throughout New England. Attendance at the Roundtable meetings averages over 200, with attendees representing a broad cross-section of regional stakeholders.
The topic of this roundtable is to still to be announced.

Boston: Annual Headshots and Happy Hour
2024-09-18 17:30 - 19:30 | Charles River Associates International Offices, 200 Clarendon Street T-09, Boston, MA, 02116

SWEP-MA Networking Event at Trillium Canton
2024-09-18 17:00 - 19:00 | Trillium – Canton, 100 Royall St, Canton, 02021, United States
The SWEP fall networking event will now take place on Wednesday, September 18 at Trillium in Canton.
This event is free for SWEP members but please register so we know how many people to expect. Non-members can register for a small fee.

Transatlantic Cleantech Summit
2024-09-18 08:30 - 17:30 | The Engine Accelerator, 750 Main St, Cambridge, MA, 02139, United States
September 18, 2024
8:30 am – 5:30 pm
The Engine Accelerator, 750 Main St, Cambridge, MA 02139
The Transatlantic Cleantech Summit by EIT InnoEnergy will convene 200+ industry leaders, climate-tech investors, innovators, and policymakers from both sides of the Atlantic to explore success stories and roadblocks in scaling cleantech. The one-day event aims to foster collaboration between the US and EU to chart a path forward for bridging the gap between innovation, climate capital, and industrial policy.
Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-transatlantic-cleantech-summit-tickets-944962958647?aff=oddtdtcreator

NEWIEE & CPES: Who's Powering the Clean Energy Transition?
2024-09-16 17:00 - 20:00 | UConn Tech Park, 159 Discovery Drive, Storrs, 06269, United States
On Monday, September 16, join NEWIEE and the Connecticut Power and Energy Society (CPES) for a thoughtful discussion about the workforce that is powering the clean energy transition in New England. Our tenth annual joint event will bring together federal and state leaders to assess the current state of the region’s energy industry workforce, and discuss what Connecticut and Massachusetts should consider in terms of energy workforce development given the states’ ambitious climate goals.
Register here!
Featured Speakers:
Jennifer Applebaum is the Managing Director of Workforce Development at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center. A former teacher and entrepreneur with a broad range of curriculum, training, and program innovation experience, Jennifer oversees a portfolio of workforce development programs that support clean energy career exploration, new entrant and upskilling training in climate-critical occupations, and entrepreneurship/ small business development among underrepresented populations. Before her work at the MassCEC, Jennifer led a statewide youth employment program centered on progressive skill-building and a curriculum-based career readiness initiative that reached over 100,000 participants across multiple states.
Tamika N. Jacques, Ed.D. has been in Workforce Development field for over twenty years. Through various job positions she has had the privilege of helping to distribute over $25 million in workforce development programs to help others excel and achieve their goals leading to economic sustainability. Tamika has created several workforce initiatives that focus on women, BIPOC, college students, high-school and elementary school students, incumbent and un/underemployed workers. Prior to joining Avangrid Renewables as the Manager of Workforce Development, Tamika served as the Senior Director of Workforce Development at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.
Tamika was given the Rising Star Award from the New England Women in Energy and The Environment in 2017 and in 2021 was awarded the Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion from the American Association of Blacks in Energy Greater Boston Chapter. Tamika also published A Brown Girls Guide to Employment and Networking Volume 1, which reached #1 on Amazon under Vocational Education. The Best Seller was also listed on Forbes.com as one of the Best Books for Networking. A Brown Girls Guide to Employment and Networking Volume II was released January 2023.
Tamika graduated from Suffolk University with a B.S. in International Economics; M.S. from Northeastern University in College Student Development and Counseling and an Ed.D. from Johnson & Wales University in Educational Leadership (Higher Education).
Shalaya Morissette (she/her) is Chief of the Minority Business and Workforce Division at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), located within the Office of Economic Impact and Diversity. She is a highly sought-after collaborator and co-conspirator in the clean technology space. Most recently she hails from the utility sector in safety and compliance. In 2022 she took on an additional role at Dearborn STEM Academy in Boston, Massachusetts as a teacher to 11th and 12th graders – delivering a curriculum for engineering with energy in mind. Previously she held various roles in higher education, including enrollment services project manager and in global transportation as the Director of Affiliate Relations. She is the former president of the Greater Boston chapter of the American Association of Blacks in Energy. Serving as the first African American board member of the New England Women in Energy and Environment, she has been devoted to elevating and engaging women and people of color in the energy space. As a Georgia Gwinnett College Alumni Association board member and a committee member for Browning the Green Space, she has been engaged in the nonprofit and higher education space as a strong advocate for elevating minorities in the energy transition. Morissette’s passion for bringing young people into the clean energy industry has also been supported with her work with Girls Inc and WriteBoston. Shalaya received her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Georgia Gwinnett College and her Master of Education degree from Cambridge College.
Dr. Kelli-Marie Vallieres was appointed by Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont to lead a new state office, the Connecticut Workforce Unit, designed to collaborate with the Department of Economic and Community Development and Department of Labor to advise state officials on workforce strategies and initiatives. Vallieres was also named among the Hartford Business Journal’s 2021 Power 50.

12 September 2024 BOD Meeting & HOUR of Power--Virtual
2024-09-12 15:00 - 17:00 | Virtual
Take advantage of this Member Benefit!
This meeting will run from 3 to 5 pm, with the HOUR OF POWER beginning at approximately 4 pm.
Board meetings are open to all NECA members. If you are not a NECA member, but wish to attend, please contact Marla Simon at marla@necanews.org before registering. Thank you.

EBC Ascending Professionals 6th Annual End of Summer Bash – Pints and Pups on the Patio!
2024-09-10 17:00 - 19:00 | Night Shift Brewing – Everett, 87 Santilli Highway, Everett, 02149, United States
Join the EBC Ascending Professionals and our event partners for some pints – and pups! – on the patio of Night Shift Brewing in Everett, MA for a relaxed networking event as the summer winds down.
Registration includes a drink ticket to select from the many Night Shift craft beer options, along with appetizers throughout the night.
And as a bonus: the Night Shift patio is dog friendly! You are encouraged to bring your fuzzy friend along to meet other pups of professionals in the environmental and energy industry. Additionally, EBC will be raising funds for the Animal Rescue League of Boston to help support other animals – and future pets – in need. Make your donation as you register or at the event.

Adaptation and Mitigation: New Innovation & Venturing Opportunities for a 2° World - September 10
2024-09-10 | Loft on Two, 1 Financial Center, Boston, MA, 02111, United States
Cleantech Group’s newest event, Adaptation and Mitigation: New Innovation & Venturing Opportunities for a 2° World will be a great opportunity for leaders in the ecosystem to explore this imperative theme affecting our world, businesses, and everyday life. Participants will also have easy access to start-ups, scale-ups, investors, and multinationals from across the sustainable innovation ecosystem. Let’s explore the intersection between adaptation and mitigation together.
We’ll be attending and hope you can join us for this one-day event in Boston on September 10. Use the code AdaptationNECEC when you register to save $200. Participants can expect:
Quality networking with key decision-makers and start-ups with great potential.
Thought-provoking conversations with experts and leaders, sharing opportunities around investment in adaptation solutions and why now is the time.
Enjoy smaller, forward-thinking, interactive exchanges, enabling high-quality connections.
Register here: https://cleantech.swoogo.com/AdaptationandMitigation/begin?code=AdaptationNECEC
