Audrey D. Scholz, PhD

I attribute my success to my ability to create order out of chaos and to remain effective when I am managing complex situations that are already in motion. I enjoy the challenge of “building the plane while it is already flying” and finding ways to keep projects moving forward while addressing competing priorities.

I am highly organized and intentional about prioritizing what needs to be done, keeping projects on track, and making sure that the right pieces are in place. My ability to stay organized, adapt to changing circumstances, and maintain momentum has been an important part of my professional growth.

The best career advice I have received is to be intentional about my personal brand. I believe it is important to be conscious of who I am, how I present myself, and the impression I create through my work and interactions with others.

I also believe in being open to feedback, continuously developing my personal brand, and remaining committed to learning and expanding my capabilities. Your professional reputation is something you build over time, but it can also be damaged very quickly, so I try to be thoughtful about how I represent myself and the value I bring to others.

My advice to young women entering the energy and sustainability fields is to stay curious, be comfortable being uncomfortable, and never hesitate to ask questions. Genuine interest and a willingness to learn can open doors throughout your career. I also encourage people to look for opportunities to help others and become a valuable resource to their teams and networks. Equally important, when you need support, do not be afraid to ask for it. Professional growth is a two-way street, built on both learning from others and contributing your own skills, ideas, and perspectives. Most importantly, bring your best self to every opportunity and embrace every chance to learn, contribute, and grow.

One of the biggest challenges facing the energy and sustainability sector is meeting rapidly growing energy demand. The expansion of data centers is placing significant pressure on energy infrastructure and the electrical grid, while also creating new sustainability considerations if that growth is not managed responsibly. I see tremendous opportunities for women to enter and shape the future of this field. As energy needs continue to evolve, there is a growing demand for professionals who can help develop innovative solutions that support economic growth, improve quality of life, and protect environmental resources. The intersection of energy innovation and sustainability presents a unique opportunity for the next generation of leaders to drive meaningful change and create lasting positive impact.

Inclusion is the most important value to me, both professionally and personally. Having moved frequently, I understand how isolating it can feel to enter a new environment, which has made me especially appreciative of people who make an effort to create a welcoming and inclusive community. I value environments where people reach out, make an effort to get to know one another, offer support, and are willing to help when someone has questions or needs guidance. Creating that sense of belonging and making others feel welcome is something I believe is important in both professional teams and personal relationships.