Get Into Energy

Concetta Defa
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Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Join our next webinar here and step into a career where your PowHER truly matters: https://getintoenergy.org/hire-powher/powher-hours/

  1. Jun 11

    Exploring High Voltage Careers: Women Finding Success in the Utility Industry - Part 2

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor 👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   What does a power systems technician really do? Join host Concetta Defa as she sits down with Darlene Arcese, Power Systems Technician, UWUA Local 369 Executive Board VP, to get a look at what it's really like working in the utility industry. In this episode of PowHER Hour, Darlene Arce details her journey from learning about a co-op degree program to landing her role and thriving in a field often overlooked by women. Learn about the specifics of the job, the training path, how women can successfully navigate opportunities in a male-dominated environment, what to expect in the field (including wildlife encounters), the reality of pay during training, and the importance of visibility, community, and mentorship for women entering the trades.   Sign up for EPUT*, the program Darlene went through: https://www.bhcc.edu/eput/ Sign up for the program at National Grid**: https://www.nationalgridus.com/Our-Company/NE-Clean-Energy-Academy/Energy-Infrastructure-Academy  *The Electric Power Utility Technology (EPUT) program is a partnership between Bunker Hill Community College, Local 369 Utility Workers Union of America, and Eversource. The program gives students an opportunity to gain real-world job experience while earning an associate's degree in Electric Power Utility Technology.  **The Energy Infrastructure Academy is an 8-week, 200-hour upskilling pre-apprenticeship program that prepares work-ready adults for entry- and mid-level union roles at National Grid.    Watch this (Part 2) on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9QNe9hSgodc Part 1 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/I1qR3XK2DAU   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.    Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    25 min

  2. Jun 4

    Exploring High Voltage Careers: Women Finding Success in the Utility Industry - Part 1

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor 👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/ In this episode of PowHER Hour, host Concetta Defa and guest Darlene Arcese, Power Systems Technician, UWUA Local 369 Executive Board VP, dive into the challenges women face when traditional career advice doesn't fit, and how perseverance and hands-on training can open the door to rewarding opportunities in the energy industry. Learn about the realities of utility work, the importance of union support and leadership, and the complex, high-voltage equipment Darlene -who shifted from studying astronomy to finding her passion and purpose as a power systems technician- works on daily.   Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/I1qR3XK2DAU Watch Part 2 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9QNe9hSgodc Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.  Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    22 min

  3. May 28

    Building a Diverse Workforce: Women's Impact and Growth in the IBEW

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   Get an inside perspective on how the IBEW is paving the way for women in the electrical industry. In this episode of PowHER Hour, host Concetta Defa and guest Jennifer Gray, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Director of Civic and Community Engagement, dive into the history and evolution of support systems for women, including the rollout of the IBEW women's mentorship program, and how it is providing both new and seasoned members with invaluable resources and guidance. They discuss the impact of women's caucuses and conferences, the importance of building community within the trade, and new local efforts, such as pre-apprenticeship programs, that help women enter the trades with confidence. They also highlight the vital need for intentional outreach, how representation and mentoring are shaping the next generation of electrical workers, and how the IBEW is building a more inclusive and dynamic workforce. Full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hnD2bKFLldk Watch our previous episode with Jennifer Gray: https://youtu.be/7oDXUVzA81s   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/ Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.    Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    23 min

  4. May 21

    Supporting Women in Energy: How the IBEW Creates Opportunity

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   Join host Concetta Defa and guest Jennifer Gray, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Director of Civic and Community Engagement, in this episode of PowHER Hour, as they explore how the IBEW is helping women break into and thrive in the energy and construction industries. From early career opportunities at utilities to the support provided through local and international women's committees, they shed light on the pathways available for women and the community that supports them. They discuss the impact of IBEW's Women's Conference, mentorship, and strong leadership, and share personal stories and the lasting value of camaraderie found within the union. Discover how visibility, advocacy, and education are driving positive change and opening doors for the next generation of women leaders in the trades.   Full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7oDXUVzA81s   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.    Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    26 min

  5. May 14

    Building a Building, Growing a Baby: Motherhood in the Trades

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   What does it mean to balance motherhood and a skilled trades career? In this second Mother's Day episode of PowHER Hour, host Concetta Defa and guest Mallorie Davies, State Regulatory and Policy Coordinator, Washington and Northern Idaho District Council of Laborers, talk about managing pregnancy and parenting as a laborer, and the practical realities women face in the trades. They go over how Mallorie found her calling as a laborer, what kinds of work and support the job really involves, how to safely and confidently work through pregnancy without compromising safety,  dealing with physical changes on the job, communicating boundaries, and leveraging both union and medical support to get through challenging moments. They discuss the transition back to work after maternity leave, setting up accommodations for breastfeeding, and facing down the real issues of mom guilt, missed events, and personal growth.   Watch full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CJvERVKx-68 Last week's Mother's Day episode with Dr. Rosemary Lesser: https://youtu.be/0WXxZwScT6U   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.    Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    37 min

  6. May 7

    Navigating Pregnancy in the Trades

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   Pregnancy in the skilled trades comes with unique challenges, but planning and open communication can make all the difference. In this episode of PowHER Hour, host Concetta Defa and guest Dr. Rosemary Lesser, OB/GYN physician, give practical advice on advocating for yourself, working with your doctor, and ensuring a safe, successful experience in the energy industry. Learn how to communicate your work environment and hazards to your healthcare provider, understand your rights under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, and navigate accommodations on the job. Discover the latest on physical activity and safety during pregnancy, ways to involve coworkers and supervisors for support, and tips for choosing the right physician for your needs. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0WXxZwScT6U   If you want to learn more about pregnancy and safety in the trades, visit the Center for Construction Research and Training:  https://www.cpwr.com/about-cpwr/cpwr-websites/ Pregnant Construction Worker Safety and Health: https://www.cpwr.com/wp-content/uploads/PA-Pregnant_Construction_Workers.pdf Work-Related Task Lists by Construction Occupation: https://www.cpwr.com/wp-content/uploads/Construction_Tasks_by_Occupation.pdf   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/   Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.    Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    27 min

  7. Apr 30

    From Hard Hats to Harnesses: Making Trades Safer for Everyone

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   Join host Concetta Defa and guest Liliana Calderon Castillo, Director of Health & Safety Programs, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, in this episode of PowHER Hour, for a candid discussion on the real-world realities of safety in the construction industry, focusing on the unique challenges women face. Watch to find out why safety isn't just a checklist, but a mindset that impacts workers' well-being both now and into retirement, and learn all about the ongoing problems with ill-fitting PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), the shift from the outdated "one size fits all" mindset, and how evolving safety standards and equipment are making the workplace more inclusive.  Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wpI6KADaB7A Click the link to watch our previous episode with Liliana Calderon Castillo: https://youtu.be/8R8AAJiLrj0   👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/ Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven.   Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    35 min

  8. Apr 23

    The Art and Strength of Women Bricklayers in Modern Construction and Energy

    Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor   Join host Concetta Defa and guest Liliana Calderon Castillo, Director of Health & Safety Programs, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, in this episode of PowHER Hour, as they dive into the dynamic world of bricklaying, skilled trades, and the essential roles these crafts play within the energy industry. Learn all about how Liliana, a professional bricklayer and safety director, built her career from an unsure young apprentice into a leader and mentor for women in the trades. They cover the importance of sisterhood and peer connection, the range of allied crafts—like tile setting, terrazzo, and cement masonry—under the BAC umbrella, and they share firsthand experiences, career insights, and concrete tips for women looking to succeed in non-traditional pathways. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8R8AAJiLrj0 👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/ Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/

    30 min
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Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Join our next webinar here and step into a career where your PowHER truly matters: https://getintoenergy.org/hire-powher/powher-hours/

Information

  • Creator
    Concetta Defa
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Get Into Energy