Celebrating Women’s History Month: Meet Shanel Green
At Avangrid, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace matters to us. During Women’s History Month, we honor women’s contributions to history, culture, and society. Throughout this month, we’re spotlighting employees of our WomENergy Business Resource Group. Meet Shanel Green, a Project Development Engineer.
Tell us about your life before Avangrid. What’s your career journey been like? Your education?
Prior to coming to Avangrid, I worked for an electric utility company in Jamaica in the capacity of regulatory analyst and then as a project coordinator focused on grid modernization. I joined Avangrid in October 2021. I hold a bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering and a master’s degree in energy science and policy.
Now, your life at Avangrid: What are your main responsibilities in your role, and what is your favorite part of the work you do?
I’m a technical lead for projects located in the Pacific Northwest with responsibilities to design and coordinate early-stage projects (designs and deliverables before construction) for Solar, Wind, and Battery Storage. My favorite part of the work I do is the designing aspect because, depending on location, terrain, and other factors, the design changes which requires a bit of creativity and application engineering of course.
What are your passions, hobbies, favorite pastimes?
I love learning new things. Since moving to Portland, Oregon in 2023, I have gotten into bouldering, hiking, and contemporary dance. I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of others through volunteering and persons I interact with. Currently, I volunteer with WRISE (Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy), FIRST(For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) robotics competition, and Avangrid’s WomEnergy business resource group as a local leader.
Who’s a woman who inspires you? Why?
I am inspired by the many women I have interacted with over the years who have supported, encourage and mentored me along my career. Monique Wijnholds was my supervisor as I supported her projects. She took me under her wings so to speak and gave me opportunities to lead while grooming me for my current role. Melissa Elkinton, former Senior Director, of Renewables Engineering taught me it’s ok to cry as it’s not a sign of weakness; she also taught me to continue advocating for myself.
These women inspire me because even in positions of authority they were willing to take the time to mentor me pulling from their past experiences, working with me to get to the next level both personally and careerwise. For this, I continue to be inspired and grateful.
What advice would you give to a young woman looking to follow in your footsteps?
Advocate for yourself always. Even when there is pushback, continue advocating for yourself.
