Letter from Executive Director – May 2025
Dear WRISE Community,
I hope this message finds you safe and supported, even as we navigate what has become an especially difficult and uncertain time for so many in our community and industry.
We are all feeling the weight of the moment. Many among us are facing job losses, financial strain, and personal hardship. Across industries—from renewable and sustainable energy to utilities, manufacturing—you may have seen or felt the impact. I, too, am deeply saddened by the stories of talented colleagues and friends who are navigating unexpected job transitions and financial uncertainty. Even for our community in Canada, we acknowledge the profound sense of concern you have and its emotional and professional impact on you. As if that weren’t enough, the mission and values that have long united and guided us are being questioned, challenged, and in some cases, actively attacked.
But let me be clear: our mission is still worth fighting for. Our values—Community, Equity, Courage, and Authenticity—are not just words. They are the foundation upon which we have built this community, and they remain our North Star, especially now.
This is a time to remember who we are.
We are a community that shows up for one another. We support, uplift, and protect each other. We are resilient—not because we are untouched by hardship, but because we face it together, with courage and compassion.
Together, we form a network of over 15,000 professionals across 47+ chapters in the U.S. and Canada, backed by 67+ sponsors. We transcend job titles and sectors—we are peers, mentors, and friends, dedicated to driving positive change in the energy industry and beyond.
➡️You Are Not Alone: Programming that speaks to you
To help you weather these changes, WRISE continues to offer complimentary programming, including webinars and local chapter events tailored to your needs—whether you’re refining technical skills, exploring new career paths, or strengthening your leadership toolkit.
All sessions and events are open to everyone to attend.
Our next webinar: What’s Next? Facing Layoffs and Uncertainty in Your Career on May 15, 2025, at 1:30 pm ET, will focus on what to do after a layoff or if you’re facing uncertainty in your current role. We will provide practical tools and resources on navigating career transitions and put your details in front of employers hiring. You can register HERE.
🚨If your WRISE membership was through a corporate sponsor and you’ve been laid off, we will extend your membership through your next renewal date, for up to one year. Please reach out to us at membership@wrisenergy.org.
➡️Gathering in Strength: 20th Anniversary Gala & Leadership Forum
- WRISE 20th Anniversary Gala
In June, we will come together to honor two decades of progress at our 20th Anniversary Gala on June 26, 2025.
This celebration is about more than milestones—it’s a testament to the resilience and innovation you bring, even in difficult times, and our collective progress and achievement as an industry! Join us in celebrating our success and register for the gala HERE.
- WRISE Leadership Forum
Then, from October 14–16, we’ll convene for the WRISE Leadership Forum, where we’ll deepen our connections, grow professionally as you acquire new and pertinent skills to move to your next leadership level, share strategies for adapting to change, and chart the path forward as a united community. Register for the leadership forum HERE.
➡️If Cost Is a Barrier, Please Reach Out
We understand that financial pressures may make ticket prices or professional development seem out of reach right now. If you’re facing economic hardship or have been affected by layoffs, please contact us directly. We will do our utmost to ensure you can participate fully in these events and programs.
Thank you for your courage, your compassion, and your unwavering commitment to advancing clean energy.
WRISE Community, we want to hear from you! 🗨️Share with us how WRISE can best support you and accelerate the advancement of our mission! Please share your thoughts by emailing us at info@wrisenergy.org or engaging with us on social media.
We will move forward—steadfast and united—knowing that our collective strength, our shared purpose, and our unwavering commitment to each other will carry us through.
With resolve and solidarity,
