How can a new Energy Management professional build a strong network of peers?

1 Join professional associations

Networking with other Energy Management professionals can be achieved through joining relevant professional associations. These organizations represent and promote the interests, standards, and values of the Energy Management field, providing members with access to publications, events, training, certification, awards, and advocacy. Examples include the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), International Facility Management Association (IFMA), and American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). Joining these associations can provide opportunities to network with other members, attend conferences and workshops, participate in online forums and groups, and access valuable resources and information.

2 Connect on social media

Connecting with other Energy Management professionals on social media can be a great way to stay up to date, share insights, ask questions, and build relationships. Popular platforms for this include LinkedIn, a professional networking site where you can create a profile and showcase your skills; Twitter, a microblogging site that allows you to follow related hashtags and trends; and Facebook, a social networking site with pages and groups that you can follow. By connecting on social media, you can expand your network, discover new opportunities, learn from experts, and engage in conversations.

3 Attend events and webinars

Networking with other Energy Management professionals can be done by attending events and webinars. These are online or offline gatherings that focus on specific topics, issues, or trends related to energy management. Examples of such events and webinars include the World Energy Engineering Congress (WEEC) and the Energy Efficiency Global Forum (EE Global), both of which are annual events that bring together energy professionals from around the world. Additionally, there is the Energy Management Webinar Series, a monthly webinar that covers various topics and best practices in energy management. By attending these events and webinars, you can learn new skills, gain insights, exchange ideas, meet potential partners and mentors, and network with other attendees, speakers, and organizers.

4 Volunteer and mentor

Networking with other Energy Management professionals can be done by volunteering and mentoring. This is an opportunity to contribute to the energy management community, share your expertise, and develop leadership and communication skills. For instance, you can volunteer for the Energy Star Program, which helps businesses and individuals save energy and protect the environment. You may also become a mentor or coach for the Green Schools Program, which helps schools reduce their environmental impact. Additionally, the Mentorship Program matches experienced Energy Management professionals with new or aspiring ones. Through volunteering and mentoring, you can network with other volunteers, mentors, and mentees while making a positive difference in the energy management field.

5 Collaborate on projects

Networking with other Energy Management professionals can be achieved by collaborating on projects. Projects are practical and creative endeavors that involve solving problems, creating solutions, or developing innovations related to energy management. Examples of projects for Energy Management professionals include an Energy Efficiency Project that involves conducting an energy audit, a Renewable Energy Project that involves designing and installing renewable energy systems, and a Smart Grid Project that involves integrating advanced technologies for optimizing the electric grid. By collaborating on projects, you can network with other project team members, stakeholders, and clients, and build up your portfolio and reputation.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?