Her Story
About Kate
Kate Robeson-Grubb is a sustainability professional serving as Sustainability Specialist and Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) Administrator for Solebury Township in New Hope, Pennsylvania. Since joining the township in 2023, she has focused on advancing local energy-transition initiatives and integrating sustainable practices into community planning and operations. Her work centers on renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency, environmental conservation, climate action, and community engagement. She brings a collaborative approach to local sustainability, working with community members and stakeholders to help develop practical solutions for a more resilient and sustainable future.
Kate earned a Bachelor of Science in Energy and Sustainability Policy from Penn State World Campus and has continued to expand her expertise in renewable energy and sustainability systems. She also holds a Public Entity Leadership certificate from Penn State Abington, reflecting her interest in effective leadership and public-sector administration. Earlier in her career, she spent more than a decade with J. Reckner Associates in market research and client services roles, developing experience in research, reporting, and client support. She later gained specialized experience in renewable energy research and project coordination through her work with Seaside Sustainability, where she contributed to industry research, policy analysis, strategic planning, public education, and community outreach.
Kate’s professional interests extend beyond energy transition to broader climate and sustainability challenges, including climate change, renewable energy policy, environmental conservation, and community resilience. She is recognized for collaborative problem solving, policy analysis, public relations, and administration, and she advocates for meaningful community participation in local climate initiatives. In 2025, she received the Distinguished Achievement in Energy & Sustainability Policy and Renewable Energy & Sustainability Systems award from Penn State, recognizing her leadership and professionalism in the field. Through her work with Solebury Township and her continued engagement with sustainability initiatives, Kate demonstrates a commitment to connecting policy, renewable energy, and community action to create lasting environmental and social impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kate
01What do you attribute your success to?
I have always been pulled forward along the way by mentors such as Brandy Robinson, my academic advisor and former professor at Penn State, and mentors here at Solebury Township such as Township Manager Christopher Gargis. I have never been strictly alone in my success; there has always been support coming from somewhere and motivation coming from others around me.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do not be afraid to engage the local government where you live, and don't be afraid to insert yourself into spaces where sustainability is being discussed, because the way that we achieve collaboration and progress in the sustainability field is mostly through networking and shared experience and shared information.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The greatest challenge for sustainable development at the government level is encountering hurdles from higher tiers of government such as the state or federal level. Another challenge is community engagement and education because climate change and sustainability have become very much buzzwords, making it difficult to communicate the actual concepts without extra bias.
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