In an industry that often values technical know-how above all else, it's easy to overlook the quiet power of soft skills. But if there's one truth that leaders across the renewable energy sector continue to echo, it's this:
"I can teach you the business - but I can't teach you soft skills."
That line changed the course of Amy Dlugokecki's career – and it's a lesson more women in clean energy need to hear.
From Project Manager to Industry Leader: Amy's Story
When Amy began her journey at Duke Energy, she didn't climb the ladder by being the most technical person in the room. Her ability to communicate clearly, adapt during transitions, and lead through collaboration opened doors she never imagined - from a pivotal supply chain integration project during a company merger, to founding the Energetic Women network that supports women in operations and engineering across the U.S.
In Amy's words, expanding her network and learning from those around her was not optional, it was essential.
Why This Matters for Women in Clean Energy
Women in India's renewable energy sector often find themselves outnumbered, overlooked, or undervalued. But technical competence isn't what holds us back. More often, it's a lack of visibility, mentorship, and relationship-building opportunities.
Amy's story isn't just inspiring, it's instructional. It shows us that you don't have to be the loudest in the room or have every technical answer. What you do need are soft skills that help you show up, speak up, and build trust.
Soft Skills That Make a Real Difference in Renewable Energy Careers
Let's break down the interpersonal skills that can genuinely shift the trajectory of your career:
- Communication – Explain your ideas with clarity to technical teams, clients, and leadership. Amy's standout communication was part of what got her noticed.
- Adaptability – The energy sector is evolving fast. Those who adapt, thrive.
- Networking & Relationship Building – Informal sponsors matter. Mentors matter. Relationships matter.
- Project Management – You don't need to be the technical expert, but you do need to lead projects with structure and vision.
- Leadership – Whether you manage people or not, leadership is about taking initiative, influencing others, and staying proactive.
- Confidence & Decision-Making – Women often hold back until they're 100% sure. But your confidence – especially when backed by preparation – opens doors.
- Conflict Resolution & Emotional Intelligence – These help you maintain trust and collaboration, especially in cross-functional teams.
- Continuous Learning – Amy didn't always have the technical know-how, but she showed she was willing to learn – and leaned on the right experts to fill the gaps.
Soft Skills Aren't Soft at All
In clean energy, the problems are complex. The teams are diverse. The stakes are high. And while technical brilliance is foundational, it's the interpersonal strengths that will often determine who gets to lead, who gets heard, and who gets promoted.
You don't need to do it alone. At WIRE-IN, we believe soft skills aren't just "nice to have." They are essential tools for change, especially in a space where women are still underrepresented in leadership.
So the next time you wonder what to invest in – another certification, or taking the time to build better relationships – maybe do both. Because the tech will keep changing. But the ability to lead with empathy, clarity, and courage? That's timeless.
Sources
- Kinekta. (2023). Maximizing Success: Soft Skills for Renewable Energy Careers. Retrieved from https://www.kinekta.com/insights/soft-skills-for-renewable-energy-careers/bp39
- Duke Energy. (2023). Secrets to Career Success? Develop Soft Skills. Retrieved from https://illumination.duke-energy.com/articles/secrets-to-career-success
- EuroClimateJobs. (2023). Skills for Success in Renewable Energy Careers: Technical Proficiency and Soft Skills. Retrieved from https://www.euroclimatejobs.com/article/861/skills-for-success-in-renewable-energy-careers-technical-proficiency-and-soft-skills
- WomenTech. (2023). What Are the Must-Have Soft Skills for Women in Leadership Roles? Retrieved from https://www.womentech.net/how-to/what-are-must-have-soft-skills-women-in-leadership-roles
