May 2024: Joanna Osawe
Joanna, describe the work of Burns & McDonnell with the energy industry and your role in particular.
With over 15 years of experience in managing renewable and energy sector companies in Canada and the United States, I am proud to be part of the Burns & McDonnell family as a Senior Business Development Manager for the Transmission & Distribution group. The firm’s commitment to safety, clients, diversity and inclusion closely mirrors my own. With the ongoing changes within the renewable and sustainable sector, I enjoy applying my passion, experience, and connections to make a global impact collaborating alongside team members pushing for the same goal. We work to develop a strategic understanding of each client’s organizational priorities, problems, and opportunities. Burns & McDonnell professionals bring the experience, skills and vision our clients need to make your transmission initiatives successful. We conduct studies, secure permits, procure materials, manage construction and otherwise handle all aspects of the project. We can be the partner for design-build/engineer-procure-construct project delivery or work as program manager to achieve the project goals. This in-depth experience enables me and the team to identify new business opportunities that benefits both Burns & McDonnell and our prospective clients within the industry. As we continue to see great emphasis on the energy transition and electrical transmission facilities playing an important role for our society, our engineering and project management capabilities help clients move towards their clean energy goals by providing tailored solutions and efficient project execution.
I am also the president, and CEO of Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE), an organization dedicated to advancing and recognizing women and underrepresented groups in the energy sector. WiRE works closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, industry associations, and academic providers to further our goals. Additionally, I serve on the Federal Sustainable Development Advisory Council, reporting to Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Steven Guilbeault. In this role, I represent environmental and nongovernmental organizations, assisting in the review and commentary on drafts of the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy. I am also a board member of the Ontario Energy Network (OEN), which provides networking activities and shares information across all segments of the energy industry.
How does your company support and increase the interest of women to pursue a STEM-related career (more particularly within the energy industry)?
Burns & McDonnell employs a variety of innovative strategies to encourage and support women who are interested in STEM careers, especially in the energy sector. Recognizing the importance of early engagement, the company collaborates extensively with schools, colleges, community organizations and non-profits, such as Higher Orbits and the Orlando Science Center. Our initiatives include workshops, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on activities, all aimed at sparking interest in the diverse fields within STEM. We also give approximately $30,000 in STEM grants to Florida schools each year.
Furthermore, Burns & McDonnell provides practical experiences through internships and co-op programs. These opportunities are crucial for bridging the gap between academic theories and real-world applications, offering students firsthand exposure to the energy industry under the guidance of experienced professionals.
In our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Burns & McDonnell maintains diverse hiring practices. We actively seek qualified female candidates for STEM roles, implementing initiatives to mitigate unconscious bias and deliver equal opportunities during the hiring process. This approach not only enriches our workforce but also supports a more inclusive industry environment.
Lastly, the company supports the continuous professional growth of our female employees through dedicated resource groups such as the Network of Women (NOW) and leadership development programs. These platforms empower women at Burns & McDonnell to develop essential skills, gain confidence, and advance into leadership positions, thereby shaping the future of the energy industry.
When did you launch WiRE and describe your passion for doing so?
Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE) was officially launched in 2013 in Toronto, Ontario, and has since expanded to have a global or international presence. WiRE is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the role of women within the renewable energy sector.
My passion for WiRE is deeply rooted in my own experiences as a commercial wind developer. In this role, it was rare to see women at construction sites, in boardroom meetings, or holding leadership and executive positions. This lack of representation highlighted a broader issue: the significant potential that remains untapped when diverse perspectives are not included in solving complex challenges.
WiRE was created from the understanding that empowering women in the energy sector does not only promote gender equality but also enriches the field with a wider range of ideas, experiences, and approaches. Renewable energy plays a crucial role in building a sustainable future. It’s important that everyone, regardless of gender, has a seat at the table in shaping this future is essential. My commitment to WiRE is driven by the belief that fostering an inclusive environment is fundamental to driving innovation and achieving long-term sustainability in the energy sector.
How can our readers participate in WiRE?
Those interested in actively engaging with and supporting Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE) can do so in several ways. Subscribing to the WiRE newsletter is a great way to stay informed about upcoming events, news, and opportunities. Participating in WiRE events, such as networking opportunities, speed mentorship sessions, workshops, field trips and international roundtable discussions, offers direct involvement in the community and facilitates professional growth and learning. Additionally, recognizing the accomplishments of women in the sector by nominating them for the prestigious WiRE Awards can have a significant impact.
Volunteering is another way to contribute, as WiRE operates largely through the efforts of volunteers. Spreading the word about WiRE’s mission and activities on social media can also broaden its reach and attract more support. Advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion within your networks and organizations can further WiRE’s goal of creating an inclusive environment in the renewable energy sector.
Contributing to the community can also take the form of sharing experience in WiRE spotlights or podcasts, or by participating as a mentor or sponsor, offering guidance and support to the next generation of women in renewable energy. Additionally, expressing interest to become a panelist at conferences or WiRE events to share knowledge, or getting involved in writing white papers that address key issues and trends, are excellent ways to contribute intellectually to the field and WiRE’s overall mission.
What advice would you give women in energy to pursue advancement within their company?
For women in the energy sector aiming to advance within their company it’s crucial to set clear career goals. Understanding where you want to reach within the company and outlining the steps necessary to achieve these objectives is foundational.
Building a robust professional network is also essential. Networking with colleagues, mentors, and industry professionals both inside and outside the company can open numerous opportunities. Participating in industry events and joining professional organizations such as Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE) can be beneficial. Alongside networking, actively seeking mentorship and sponsorship within the company is vital. Mentors can provide valuable guidance and perspective, while sponsors can help promote your career progression within the organization.
Continuously investing in your learning and staying updated on industry trends, technologies, and developments is another important step. Pursuing professional development opportunities, such as training programs, certifications, and courses, can significantly enhance your skills and knowledge base.
It’s equally important to be vocal and proactive within your company. Don’t hesitate to share your ideas, opinions, and ambitions. Engage in challenging projects, volunteer for leadership roles, and showcase your capabilities and potential for growth. Additionally, keep track of your successes and be ready to discuss the value you bring to the organization during performance evaluations and career discussions.
Developing a strong personal brand and establishing yourself as a subject thought leader can further solidify your professional standing. Contributing to industry publications, participating in conferences and webinars, and using social media to share your insights are effective ways to build your reputation.
Lastly, resilience and persistence are key attributes to cultivate, as advancing in any career often involves overcoming challenges and setbacks. Staying focused on your long-term goals, soliciting and acting on feedback from supervisors and peers, and continuously improving based on this feedback are all important practices that can lead to successful career advancement in the energy sector.