On the evening of February 23, 2015, DLR Group (an architecture firm) hosted more than 60 women and men to the second annual Women in Solar Energy gathering. It was part of a 17 city simultaneous event crafted to raise the visibility of women, promote their key roles in their companies or agencies, network and learn from each other.

Women represented a wide variety of fields within the industry including architecture, research, chemical and electrical engineering, construction, public policy, science and math education, communications, as well as solar system design and installation. They work on projects that range in size from global to local.

Women represented a wide variety of fields within the industry including architecture, research, chemical and electrical engineering, construction, public policy, science and math education, communications, as well as solar system design and installation. They work on projects that range in size from global to local.

Solar Washington was represented by three board members, Julie Wilcox, Britton Rife and Joan Schrammeck, and former board member Wendy Wenrick. With the sun setting over Elliott Bay and the lights of the waterfront and Ferris Wheel brightening, it was a perfect time to meet new allies who are working to transform energy systems to be renewable and sustainable. #NationWISE.

Thanks to Solar Washington board member Joan Schrammeck for producing this article. Photo: Women in Solar Panel (l-r) Louise Petruzella, Shoreline Community College; Wendy Wenrick, A-R Solar; Diana Brown, DLR Goup; Bobi Garrett, National Renewable Energy Lab; Dr. Christine Luscombe, University of Washington; Renee Gastineau, University of Washington (moderator). Photo courtesy of the Clean Energy Institute (University of Washington)