West Virginia’s energy sector, deeply rooted in the state's heritage, is evolving into a hub for innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. Leading this transformation is U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, a trailblazer in energy policy and a champion for women's roles in this vital industry. Recently honored with the inaugural "West Virginia Women in Energy ‘Woman of the Year’" award at the 2024 Governor’s Energy Summit, Senator Capito’s leadership exemplifies how women can shape the future of energy in the Mountain State.
Senator Capito believes there has never been a better time for young women to step into the energy sector. During a chat with the West Virginia Office of Energy, she emphasized the sector’s growing diversity and the importance of confident engagement. “Young women interested in an energy career should be confident that they are more than able to enter these in-demand jobs,” Capito said. She also highlighted the support available from women leaders across the industry who are paving the way for future generations.
Senator Capito noted that this is an exciting time for women to grow their expertise: “As technologies like carbon capture, storage, and utilization continue to grow, we will need a dedicated workforce who is on the cutting edge of these advancements. This creates an excellent opportunity for women interested in this field.”
With more women entering STEM fields, energy is becoming increasingly gender inclusive. Senator Capito highlighted this shift, saying, “This sector is becoming increasingly diverse as we pursue an ‘all-the-above’ energy future. A skilled workforce is essential in achieving American energy independence.”
“When West Virginia women get involved, we get things done,” Capito added.
Senator Capito advocates for robust education and training programs to prepare the next generation of energy professionals. She emphasized the role of universities, technical colleges, and apprenticeships in equipping students with the skills needed for emerging energy careers. Her vision includes embracing clean energy advancements while maintaining West Virginia’s legacy in coal and natural gas. “We must continue to support our existing baseload generation, such as coal and natural gas, while also assisting new energy technologies, like advanced nuclear reactors and long-duration battery storage that will expand our energy generation capabilities,” she said, reaffirming her commitment to a balanced approach.
The recognition of Senator Capito at the Governor’s Energy Summit reflects the strides being made to elevate women in energy. Governor Jim Justice praised her contributions, saying, “Her commitment to making our country energy independent while empowering women in the industry is truly remarkable.”