In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re recognizing the leadership of some determined women who are setting a positive example within the Office of Fossil Energy (FE).

Karrnett Davis leads the Executive Correspondence Team within FE’s Office of Workforce Management and Administration. As the Lead Executive Correspondence Specialist, Karrnett manages the FE correspondence process, making sure that all top-level written communications passing between the Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy, FE program offices, other Department of Energy (DOE) program offices, and DOE’s Office of the Executive Secretariat, adhere to DOE’s policies and procedures. Karrnett leads her team in processing correspondence that includes letters; information, action, and decision memos; and congressional reports. Prior to FE, Karrnett worked for DOE’s Human Capital Office and the Selective Service System.

Karrnett believes that it’s important for women to have equal representation in all fields—including science and energy—because of the positive contributions they have made in all disciplines. “The ability to be innovative, resourceful, and critical thinkers plays such an integral part of and are key factors to advancing technologies and energy innovations—irrespective of gender,” she said.

For girls and young women entering the workforce, Karrnett advises them to consistently demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. In her own field, Karrnett said it’s important to be flexible and willing to adapt to new circumstances as they come—especially unexpected ones.

She also advises others to persevere. “You will encounter numerous professional challenges,” she said. “You will fail, succeed and then fail again—however in those moments, it is important to view those failures as a beginning—not an end.  The road to success is always under construction.”   

When asked if there is a particular woman in history who inspires her most, Karrnett said she finds it difficult to pick a single woman as there have been so many (from the past and present) who have inspired and encouraged her.

But, at present, she said she does find one quote in particular from Misty Copeland—the first African American female principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre—to be particularly inspiring. “Know that you can start late, look different, be uncertain, and still succeed” – Misty Copeland.