NEWIEE Staff

Kate P. Johnson

Executive Director

Kate P. Johnson is NEWIEE’s first Executive Director, bringing over 15 years of leadership in the energy and environmental sectors with a focus on nonprofit membership organizations and trade associations. Her career is defined by driving strategic growth, deepening member engagement, and building systems that empower organizations to scale their impact.

As Managing Director at Advanced Energy United, Kate led member engagement strategies for the national energy trade association, built and managed cross-functional teams focused on membership, events, and data management and instituted an organization-wide culture of member-centered service. Before Advanced Energy United, Kate served as Vice President at the Northeast Clean Energy Council (now Alliance for Climate Transition), leading communications, strategic planning, and events and convenings. She also spent four years as Vice President at Fields Associates, advising nonprofits and associations on marketing, membership management, and operational excellence.

Kate’s career began in journalism, with roles at CFO Publishing and a master’s degree from Boston University. Her early work in media and policy, including positions at the Massachusetts Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, shaped her understanding of how communication, policy, and stakeholder engagement drive change.

A former NEWIEE Board Member, Kate helped co-create the organization’s 2025-2029 strategic plan. She also serves on the InterSolar & Energy Storage North America Advisory Board, shaping educational programming for the national conference.

Kate’s leadership philosophy centers on empowering people and building strong relationships. She believes in a growth mindset and creating environments where everyone can develop their leadership potential.

Outside the office, Kate is an accomplished endurance athlete who has completed more than a dozen marathons and two Ironman triathlons. Kate holds a Certificate in Nonprofit Management & Leadership from Boston University Questrom School of Business, an M.S. in Journalism from Boston University, and a B.A. in Journalism with a minor in Political Science from California State University, Long Beach. She lives in Quincy with her husband and son.