Building a strong network has been the most important thing I’ve done so far in my career. Without the support and advice I’ve received from my peers and friends in this industry, I wouldn’t have accomplished a fraction of my goals.
I realize we all have extremely busy lives, but carving out the time to network and convene should be a priority for everyone – especially in a field like EVs, which is constantly changing. While I participate in a litany of networking activities that aren’t gender specific, I truly appreciate the advice and perspectives of my female peers and counterparts.
If you are woman currently working in EVs or are interested in a career in this industry, there are two networking organizations I would highly recommend joining (personally, I am a member of both):
Women of Electric Vehicles (WEV): Founded in 2013, this women’s networking organization mission is to ““elEVate” women who are working in the EV industry by establishing a community built for “her” from the ground up. A space to coalesce women globally towards the urgent need to rapidly shift to electric transportation. Together, we create community and long lasting connections, by sharing stories, ideas, resources, and strategies to become better leaders & innovators in our industry. Because when women lead, communities and industries thrive.”
WEV currently has eight chapters in the U.S. and Canada and hosts in-person chapter events, webinars, and an annual WEVs Summit, which is co-located with Forth’s annual EV Roadmap conference. WEV does not require membership dues to participate, but applicants must currently work in the EV industry.
Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy (WRISE): With 36 chapters across the U.S. and Canada, this women’s networking organization was founded in 2005 and may provide more opportunities to engage with other peers at in-person events. The mission of WRISE is to
“promote the education, professional development, and advancement of women to achieve a strong diversified workforce and support a robust renewable energy economy.”
They accomplish this mission through co-located events at major industry conferences, online webinars, national networking events, mentoring programs, annual awards, scholarship programs, and an annual WRISE Leadership Forum. While the organization had previously focused on renewable energy, they have been expanding their scope and mission to be more inclusive of other clean technologies, such as EVs. WRISE does require annual dues to receive member benefits, which start at $35 a year.
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