A Career Journey from Journalist to Renewable Energy Champion ⚡

To achieve a renewable energy future for all, we need a diverse, skilled workforce. When thinking of the wind energy industry, one might be tempted to only think of engineers and scientists—but it takes talent of all kinds to power this world-improving industry forward. Proving this fact is this month’s Renewable Energy Champion Alexsandra Lemke, a Senior Project Manager and External Affairs Advisor supporting both the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). 

How did you get into wind energy? 

My journey into wind energy began after spending nearly 20 years working in publishing, media, and broadcast journalism. During my tenure, I met many influential business partners and clients who recognized my expertise in storytelling, strategic planning, and organizational change management. 

I was at a crossroads in my journalism and media career where I was searching for what would become the next 20 years of my life, and a friend recommended that I would be a good fit in the renewable energy space. I wanted the next chapter in my life to be one that made a difference in the world, but also gave me the opportunity be creative, build lifelong relationships, and be part of a burgeoning industry. That’s when I found myself at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) leading a team of communications professionals, managing external affairs initiatives, and developing many high-profile strategies and programs. 

In my current role, I serve as a central hub for external affairs, support communications and technology transfer activities, facilitate workshops and peer reviews, and assist with operations. By combining creativity with organizational skills, I effectively develop operational and programmatic strategies to advance wind energy objectives. I facilitate communication of a robust research portfolio, spearhead new program initiatives, and coordinate with diverse stakeholders, utilizing resources within the DOE and national laboratory complex to address fundamental challenges in science and engineering.

I am responsible for coordinating programs that promote the commercialization of promising energy technologies and foster partnerships between DOE’s national laboratories and private sector companies. This involves active coordination and the ability to build trusted relationships with key stakeholders, including advocacy organizations, industry players, and influencers. I am passionate about shaping the future of wind technology for all, emphasizing its positive economic and cultural impacts.

What's your favorite thing about wind energy? 

My favorite thing about wind energy is people and its potential for seeing high-impact, wind energy programs come to fruition. I appreciate wind energy for its ability to contribute significantly to renewable energy goals and I admire wind energy for its ability to foster innovation and drive technological advancements. Wind energy projects often require strategic planning, effective communication, and collaboration with various stakeholders—all aspects of which align with my passion and interests. More importantly, I’ve met some of the most brilliant minds in the industry and I’m honored to have worked alongside them.

Any advice to people wanting to work in wind?

• Collaborate and Build Relationships: Relationships matter in the wind energy industry because they are the foundation upon which successful projects, partnerships, and advancements are built. Whether it's fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders, cultivating trust with clients and suppliers, or nurturing mentorship and teamwork within organizations, strong relationships drive progress and innovation in renewable energy.
• Embrace innovation and creativity in problem-solving: Look for opportunities to improve efficiency, reliability, and affordability of wind energy technologies and projects through innovation.
• Stay Resilient: The wind energy sector may face challenges such as regulatory changes, market fluctuations, and technological disruptions. Stay resilient and adaptable to navigate through uncertainties and seize opportunities for growth.
• Promote Public Awareness: Advocate for wind energy by promoting public awareness and understanding of its benefits. Engage with communities, policymakers, and stakeholders to address concerns, dispel myths, and foster support for wind energy projects.
• Continuous Learning: Never stop learning and improving. Stay curious, seek out opportunities for professional development, and continuously enhance your knowledge and skills in wind energy and related fields.