Nonprofit Spotlight: Solar for Women 

Solar for Women, a newly established nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women and nonbinary individuals in the solar energy field, is working to make strides in addressing workforce equity in the clean energy sector. Officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization in May 2025, Solar for Women is working to create meaningful change through technical training, mentorship, community building, and advocacy.

The Mission

Solar for Women was founded to advance accessibility, justice, and accountability in the solar energy field through the elimination of bias, prejudice, and discrimination. The organization’s goal is to provide technical training and mentorship opportunities while building supportive communities where women and nonbinary individuals can thrive in traditionally male-dominated workplaces.

By sharing experiences, exchanging knowledge, and mutually encouraging each other, Solar for Women is strengthening collective voices, augmenting economic opportunities, and helping shape a more equitable energy future that can better address climate change.

Innovative Programs and Projects

Under the leadership of Founder Riley Neugebauer, Solar for Women has established three active working groups that drive the organization’s initiatives:

Research and Analysis

This working group is tackling a critical gap in industry data. The team is looking at publicly available data to better understand the representation of women in the electrical trades. They are focused on electrical because there is no granular data available about the number of women solar installers, because the gender data in the solar industry tends to be focused on the industry as a whole or in larger categories within the industry. Having more trades-specific gender data will be helpful to illuminate the underrepresentation of women and provide some baseline information that the organization hopes will contribute to more dialogue, measure progress, and set meaningful diversity goals. 

Communications and Engagement

This group develops newsletters, blog content, and communications strategies to build awareness and elevate the voices of women and nonbinary individuals in solar. They are currently working on a project to share stories from solar tradeswomen. 

Events

The Events working group organizes webinars, training opportunities, and community gatherings that provide practical support and networking opportunities for women and nonbinary professionals in the solar industry.

Upcoming Webinar Series: Practical Strategies for Career Success

Solar for Women is hosting a free three-part webinar series designed to deliver actionable strategies for finding work, investing in the right credentials, and negotiating your worth in the solar trades. These webinars feature experienced tradeswomen who will share honest advice, proven tactics, and the encouragement needed to thrive in today’s market.

Finding a Job, Networking & Diversifying

March 5, 2026 | 5:30 – 6:30 PM Mountain Time

The solar industry is evolving, and so are the opportunities within it. This session features experienced hiring managers discussing how to identify where jobs are right now, leverage transferable skills across related fields, and network effectively in today’s market. Hear proven strategies from women who have successfully navigated industry changes and come out stronger.

Panelists:

• Erika Symmonds – Advisor, Solar for Women
• Janet Gomez – Director of Talent Acquisition, Freedom Forever
• Kate Collardson – SolarRecycle

Register here

Smart Investments: Certifications and Licenses That Pay Off

April 16, 2026 | 5:30 – 6:30 PM Mountain Time

Which credentials are worth your time and money in a competitive market? This webinar breaks down the real-world ROI of electrical licensure, NABCEP certification, and other professional development paths. Through examples and practical guidance, learn how to make strategic decisions about building credentials that advance your career.

Panelists:

• Brit Heller – Director of Program Management, HeatSpring
• Amanda Bybee – CEO, Amicus O&M Cooperative
• Jenny Conrardy – Journeyman Electrician, Residential Foreman, Arch Solar

Register here

Ace the Interview, Know Your Value, and Negotiate Like a Pro

May 20, 2026 | 5:30 – 6:30 PM Mountain Time

Learn how to showcase your skills effectively, stand out as a candidate, and negotiate confidently when the job offer comes. This session covers everything from interview preparation to salary negotiation and building long-term financial resilience. Walk away ready to advocate for yourself at every career stage.

Panelists:

• Anna Bautista – Vice President of Construction, GRID Alternatives
• Jesse Callahan – Founding Director of Operations, Ironhead Solar

Register here

How to Get Involved

Solar for Women welcomes support from individuals and organizations committed to advancing equity in the clean energy sector. Here are ways to get involved:

• Attend the webinar series – Register for one or all three sessions to gain practical career strategies and connect with other professionals.
• Sign up for the newsletter – Stay informed about upcoming events, research findings, and opportunities at solarforwomen.org. You can sign up for their newsletter at the bottom of the page.
• Follow on social media– Connect with Solar for Women on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to stay updated on the latest initiatives and industry insights.
• Volunteer with a working group – Volunteer your time to contribute to research, communications, or events initiatives. Here is the volunteer interest form.
• Support the mission – As a newly established nonprofit, Solar for Women is seeking donations to support programming, research, and community building efforts.

The solar industry needs more skilled electricians and tradespeople to meet growing demand. Creating inclusive workplaces is one of the most effective ways to expand the talent pool and address this workforce shortage.

Solar for Women is working to create the infrastructure, resources, and community support that women and nonbinary individuals need to succeed in solar careers. By addressing systemic barriers and providing practical pathways to success, the organization is helping expand the industry’s talent pool. In doing so, they’re shaping a more equitable and inclusive clean energy transition.